Don't forget
FROM October 1, the following changes in the rate of the National Minimum Wage take place:
Ask the expert: Flexible working applications
I EMPLOY an administrative assistant in a busy city centre medical practice and she is due to return from maternity leave shortly. She has called the practice to ask whether it would be possible to return to work on a part-time basis. She was previously full-time but has requested to work three days a week.
Don't forget
FROM April 1, the following changes take place:
HR Alert: Government challenge change on criminal records checks
SOME prospective employees in England and Wales may not have to disclose their criminal records following a landmark court ruling.
Case study: Job interview is not an audition
BACKGROUND: Czikai v FreemantleMedia Ltd was an interesting case involving a failed appearance on a popular talent show and how an audition doesn’t give you the same employment rights as a job interview.
Progress in plans to extend shared parental leave
THE Children and Families Bill has moved a step closer to reality after MPs passed the legislation at second reading last month.
Unpaid parental leave increases while fit-note guidance is revised
RULES extending the right to unpaid parental leave came into force this month.
Ask the expert: Long-term absence
We have been receiving a high number of calls on the employment law advice line regarding long-term sickness issues. Long-term sickness can cause major disruption in practices, resulting in costs to cover a temporary replacement, as well as affecting morale as colleagues have to pick up extra work for the absent employee.
New tribunal fees confirmed
The government have advised they are trying to reduce the number of claims brought before employment tribunals by introducing fees for those using the service. These fees are due to be implemented in summer 2013.
Dealing with breach of confidentiality and unacceptable behaviour
A patient has written into the practice with a serious allegation. The practice manager phoned the patient to discuss her letter and she has advised that one of our receptionists has started an affair with her estranged husband.