Employment Law Update

Course Overview

The course provides an introduction to current employment law and gives an insight into likely future changes. The implications of relevant recent cases and tribunal decisions are assessed. The emphasis throughout the course is on the adoption of safe and responsible employment practices from recruitment to termination of the employment contract.

Audience

Managers, HR staff and those who are responsible for HR in smaller organisations.

Skills Gained

• Understanding of the main provisions and constraints of current employment law.
• Understanding of the effects on the contract of employment, recruitment, selection, dismissal and redundancy practices.
• Being able to describe basic tribunal procedures.
• Know how to avoid unfair dismissal and how good management practice and procedures can best contribute to this aim.
• Understanding the implications of current employment law in the light of recent decisions.
• Recognising the current influences of European Union law on UK employment practices.

Prerequisites

Some knowledge of Employment Law is beneficial.

Course Outline

Right From the Start: an interactive session in which all of the main stages of activity prior to employment are identified and related to current employment law.

The Employment Contract in Action: a review of factors relevant to the contract between employer and employee.

During Work - When Things Go Wrong: changes and variations; dealing with absence and sickness; warnings verbal and written; discipline issues; discipline and grievance procedures; what can happen if correct procedures are not followed.

Leaving Work by Natural Causes: analysis of the effects of current employment law on the normal methods of leaving employment including resignation, notice, mutual agreement and retirement.

Leaving Work in Other Ways! dealing with dismissal - what is fair and what is unfair, redundancy and layoff.

Sensible Management Practices: a consolidating review of safe rules for managers covering good employment practice throughout the complete employment cycle.

Don't be Afraid of the Tribunal: the role of the tribunal and ACAS; how employers can benefit from using tribunals more often and more effectively.

Action Plan: participants plan and discuss what they will do on return to work.