Matthew Chilcott

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15 04 2025

The Do’s and Don’ts: Neonatal Leave | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, Employment Law, General, Health & Safety @sg1businessclub, #BTCstevenage, #consensus hr, #consensushr, #Dos&Dont's, #neonatalcare, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, SME, SME's

A Guide for Business Owners & Managers

From April 2025, the Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023 will come into effect, giving eligible parents up to 12 weeks of paid neonatal leave, separate from other parental leave.

At Consensus HR, we’re helping businesses prepare with this essential guidance:

✅ DO:

Update your HR policies to reflect the new entitlement.
Communicate clearly with staff about the change.
Train line managers to handle sensitive conversations with empathy.
Track absences correctly – neonatal leave is separate.
Provide wellbeing support and signpost resources.
Stay compliant and ahead of legal obligations.

❌ DON’T:

Don’t treat it as ‘optional’ – this is a statutory right.
Don’t delay responding to requests or policy updates.
Don’t assume every situation is the same – families need different support.
Don’t underestimate the impact of poor implementation on morale.

“This is an incredibly important and compassionate step forward in employment law. As a business owner or manager, recognising and respecting neonatal leave is not only a legal obligation, but also a chance to show your team that you care.”
— Matthew Chilcott, Owner – Consensus HR

📘 Learn More:

GOV.UK Neonatal Leave Overview
ACAS Guidance on Neonatal Leave
Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023 – Full Legislation

📞 Need help updating your HR policies?

Contact Consensus HR today – your outsourced HR partner for clear, compliant, and people-first HR.

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To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

At Consensus HR, we are proud to offer a wide range of HR & Employment Law services to help our clients with all areas of best practice and Employment Law which can be found by clicking on the button:

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Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

If your business always wishes that it works in all areas to the benefit of the team and company and as an employer of choice, give us a call or email now for a non-obligatory chat. Consensus HR | Your Outsourced Human Resources and Employment Law Department | “Helping companies take the pain out of managing people whilst Preventing People Problems.” 01438 576750

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Important Health & Safety Update | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

10 04 2025

Did You Know? HR Fact 5: The National Minimum Wage Increases Every Year | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, Employment Law, General #DidYouKnow?, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

Did You Know?

Did You Know that HR laws and regulations are constantly evolving, and staying informed is crucial for every business. Each week, we share an essential HR fact to help you navigate employment law, avoid costly mistakes, and create a fair, compliant workplace.

Fact 5: The National Minimum Wage Increases Every Year:

Did you know that the UK National Minimum Wage and National Living Wage rates change every April? Employers must ensure they are paying staff the correct rates to avoid fines and reputational damage.

Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR, comments: “Staying up to date with wage legislation is critical for businesses. Failing to pay the correct wage can lead to penalties and legal action.”

Previous Weeks Facts:

Fact 1: Unfair Dismissal Claims Can Be Costly

Fact 2: Contacts of Employment must be given on day one of employment or prior.

Fact 3: Employees accrue holiday pay when sick

How Consensus HR Can Help:

HR compliance is crucial for any business, and at Consensus HR, we provide expert advice and support to help companies stay legally compliant while fostering a positive work environment.

📌 For expert HR support, visit: www.consensushr.com

Follow Consensus HR for more HR facts and updates: 🔹 LinkedIn: Consensus HR 🔹 Twitter/X: @ConsensusHR 🔹 Facebook: Consensus HR

🚀 Stay compliant, avoid legal risks, and create a thriving workplace with Consensus HR!

Our Range of Services

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

Click Here

Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.

For further information on any of the HR subjects we provide, please click the heading below:

10 04 2025

👩‍👦 Siblings Day – 10th April 2025 | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, General, Health & Safety, Newsletter @sg1businessclub, #BTCstevenage, #worldsiblingsday, Business, Business Owners, BusinessBuzzStevenage, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

What Employers Can Learn About Team Dynamics from Sibling Relationships:

By Matthew Chilcott – Owner, Consensus HR

While Siblings Day is often celebrated as a personal occasion to honour the bonds between brothers and sisters, it also offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on how relationships at work mirror the dynamics we experience in family life.

At Consensus HR, we believe that healthy, respectful relationships in the workplace are the foundation of a strong, successful team.

How sibling-style dynamics show up at work:

Just like in families, workplace teams often include a mix of personalities – some more dominant, some more nurturing, and others who thrive quietly in the background. HR professionals regularly encounter situations where team conflict, communication breakdown, or favouritism can affect morale and productivity.

By recognising these patterns, businesses can take proactive steps to:

Promote equality and fairness
Encourage open communication
Support conflict resolution
Develop strong, inclusive workplace cultures

The HR perspective: Supporting team relationships:

At Consensus HR, we work with our clients to build tailored HR strategies that support healthy team dynamics, including:

Effective performance management systems
Training in emotional intelligence and leadership development
Clear grievance procedures and resolution pathways
Ongoing team development workshops

These tools help ensure that every team member – just like in a family – feels heard, valued, and respected.

A word from Matthew Chilcott, Owner:

“Siblings Day is a great reminder that every workplace is a network of relationships. Whether you’re managing a team of five or fifty, understanding how people interact is key to creating a thriving workplace. At Consensus HR, we support businesses to turn people problems into positive outcomes through practical, compliant, and people-focused HR solutions.”

Is your team dynamic working well?

If you’ve noticed team tensions, poor communication, or low morale, it might be time to reassess how your business supports working relationships. With the right HR policies and procedures, you can strengthen team cohesion and performance.

📞 Contact Consensus HR today to discuss how we can help support your team through professional and proactive HR support.

Follow us for more HR advice and updates:

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Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

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09 04 2025

Consensus HR Wins SME-Focused HR Consultancy | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, General, Newsletter @sg1businessclub, #BTCstevenage, #Hertfordshirebusiness, #Stevenagebusineses, Business, Business Owners, BusinessBuzzStevenage, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

Consensus HR Wins SME-Focused HR Consultancy of the Year 2025 – Home Counties

Presented by Corporate Vision

We are proud to announce that Consensus HR has been awarded SME-Focused HR Consultancy of the Year 2025 – Home Counties by Corporate Vision. This prestigious recognition celebrates our continued dedication to providing outstanding HR support for SMEs across the region.

Practical, Professional HR Support for SMEs:

At Consensus HR, our mission is to deliver bespoke HR services that are practical, legally compliant, and tailored to the needs of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). We understand the balancing act business owners face when managing teams while running a business—and we’re here to help.

Our services include:

Employment law advice
Performance management and appraisals
Disciplinary and grievance support
HR documentation and compliance audits
Workplace mental health guidance

By offering jargon-free, commercially focused solutions, we help you prevent people problems before they arise.

Recognition for Outstanding HR Services:

This award is a huge honour and a reflection of the incredible businesses we work with. Your trust and commitment to best practice HR make what we do possible.

A message from our founder, Matthew Chilcott:

“This isn’t just a win for Consensus HR—it’s a win for our clients. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey. Together, we’re building stronger, more effective workplaces.”

Previous HR Industry Awards:

We’re also proud to have previously been recognised for our contributions to HR consultancy and innovation, including:

🏆 SME News Southern Enterprise Award Winner 2023
🏆 SME News Business Elite Awards Winner 2022 – Leading Innovators in HR Solutions – South England
🏆 SME News UK Enterprise Awards Winner 2021 – Best HR Consultancy – Home Counties

Each award reinforces our belief that straightforward, effective HR can make a big difference to a business’s success.

Let’s Connect:

We love helping SMEs build workplaces that are productive, positive, and compliant. If you’re ready to elevate your HR approach, get in touch today.

📞 Contact us: www.consensushr.com

📣 Follow us on social media:

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📘 Facebook
🐦 X (Twitter)
📸 Instagram

Thank you to our amazing clients and partners, and to Corporate Vision for this fantastic recognition. We look forward to continuing to support businesses throughout 2025 and beyond.

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

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Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

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08 04 2025

Employment Tribunal Claims Surge | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, Disciplinary & Grievance, Employment Contracts, Employment Law, General @sg1businessclub, #bedfordbusiness, #BTCstevenage, #employmenttribunal;, #hertfordshirebusinesses, bedfordshire, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

📊 Employment Tribunal Claims Surge: Key HR Insights from Q3 2024/25

By Matthew Chilcott – Owner, Consensus HR

The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) has released the latest Employment Tribunal statistics for the third quarter of 2024/25 (October–December 2024), revealing a sharp rise in employment disputes across the UK. This data underscores the increasing importance of HR compliance, clear documentation, and effective people management to avoid costly claims.

📌 Headline Figures from Q3 2024/25:

A total of 26,000 Employment Tribunal (ET) claims were received.
ET claims have increased by 35.7% year-on-year compared to Q3 2023/24.
Key increases between Q2 and Q3 2024/25 include:
- 🛑 Redundancy (failure to inform and consult) – up 50%
- 📄 Breach of contract – up 10.8%
- ⚖️ Unfair dismissal – up 10.4%
- ✍️ Failure to provide a written statement of employment particulars – up 5.2%
- 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Discrimination claims:
  - Sex – up 12.3%
  - Race – up 12.6%
  - Sexual orientation – up 13.3%
  - Age – up 12.8%

📎 View the full report on GOV.UK

🧐 What These Employment Law Statistics Reveal

📉 Redundancy Claims – A Call for Better Consultation

The 50% surge in redundancy-related tribunal claims shows that many employers are not fulfilling their legal duties to consult employees during restructures. With the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, businesses must ensure redundancy processes are handled sensitively and legally to avoid tribunal risk.

📑 Breach of Contract & Missing Terms

A rise in breach of contract claims (up 10.8%) and missing written particulars (up 5.2%) points to a worrying trend in contract management. Under Section 1 of the Employment Rights Act 1996, all employees must receive a written statement of terms on or before day one. Failure to comply could now cost up to £2,876 per employee from April 2025.

⚖️ Rise in Workplace Discrimination Claims

Discrimination based on sex, race, age, and sexual orientation saw double-digit increases. This reflects greater awareness of employee rights and a willingness to challenge unlawful treatment. Employers must prioritise Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) training and robust HR policies to avoid breaches.

💬 Matthew Chilcott, Owner – Consensus HR, Comments:

“The continued rise in Employment Tribunal cases is a red flag for UK businesses.

From redundancy consultation to issuing accurate employment contracts and tackling workplace discrimination, the message is clear: prevention is better than cure.

Businesses must ensure their HR documentation, processes, and leadership training are fully compliant and fair. At Consensus HR, we help organisations navigate these challenges before they become costly claims.”

✅ HR Takeaways for Employers

Always consult properly during redundancies.
Issue contractual documentation to all staff on day one.
Keep disciplinary and grievance procedures up to date.
Provide EDI training to all employees and managers.
Seek expert HR advice before acting on any contractual change or dismissal.

🤝 How Consensus HR Can Support Your Business

At Consensus HR, we offer tailored HR consultancy services to help businesses manage all aspects of employment law compliance, including:

Writing and reviewing contracts of employment
Conducting redundancy consultations
Handling grievances and disciplinary procedures
Delivering HR training workshops
Supporting with tribunal preparation and representation

Let us help you stay compliant and prevent people problems before they escalate.

📲 Stay Connected with Consensus HR

This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For tailored support, please contact Consensus HR directly.

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

Click Here

Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.

For further information on any of the HR subjects we provide, please click the heading below:

07 04 2025

World Health Day – 7th April 2025 | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, General, Health & Safety @sg1businessclub, #BTCstevenage, #worldhealthday, Business, Business Owners, BusinessBuzzStevenage, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

🌍 World Health Day – 7th April 2025

Supporting Employee Wellbeing at Work
By Matthew Chilcott – Owner, Consensus HR

Every year on 7th April, World Health Day is celebrated across the globe to raise awareness of important health issues. At Consensus HR, we believe this is a great reminder for businesses to reflect on how they support the health and wellbeing of their teams.

Why does employee health matter?

Healthy employees are happier, more productive, and more engaged. Looking after the physical and mental health of your team is not just the right thing to do – it’s also good for business. A strong approach to employee wellbeing helps to reduce absenteeism, improve morale, and build a positive workplace culture.

The role of Businesses, Managers & HR in promoting wellbeing:

As business professionals, we work with businesses to create and implement policies that support both the mental health and physical health of employees. This includes:

Providing access to Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)
Promoting flexible working arrangements
Conducting regular wellbeing check-ins
Ensuring managers are trained to spot signs of stress and burnout
Having clear, supportive absence management and occupational health procedures

Matthew Chilcott, Owner, says:

“World Health Day reminds us that our people are our most valuable asset. At Consensus HR, we work with companies to develop tailored HR solutions that support wellbeing and encourage a culture where health, in all its forms, is a priority. We help our clients reduce people problems before they become serious issues.”

A few ways to support health in your business today:

Encourage employees to take regular breaks
Promote open conversations about mental health
Offer healthy snacks in the workplace
Arrange walking meetings or lunchtime activities
Review and update your health and safety policies

Need help supporting your team’s wellbeing?

If you’re unsure where to start or want to improve your current approach, Consensus HR can help. We provide practical HR support and advice that aligns with current employment law and best practice.

📞 Contact us today to find out how we can help your business prioritise employee health and wellbeing.

Follow Consensus HR for more HR tips and insights:

🌐 Website
💼 LinkedIn
📘 Facebook
🐦 X / Twitter
🧠 Google Reviews

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

Click Here

Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.

For further information on any of the HR subjects we provide, please click the heading below:

03 04 2025

Employment Law Cases in the UK – 3 | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, Employment Law, General, Investigations, Training & Development #bedfordshirebusinesses, #consensus hr, #consensushr, #discrimination, #hertfordshirebusinesses, #princess, #sexual discrimination, #stevenagebusinesses, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

Employment law in the UK has seen a myriad of unique and unprecedented cases that highlight the complexities of workplace relations. Below is just one of our weekly Employment tribunal (ET) cases, detailing the circumstances, outcomes, and financial awards where applicable.

3. Bisexual Barman Called ‘Princess’ Wins £10,000

In January 2025, Scott Duncan, a bisexual bar worker, was awarded £10,000 after his boss repeatedly called him a “princess” and made other derogatory remarks. The tribunal ruled that this created a degrading work environment.

Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR, Comments:

“These cases highlight just how crucial it is for businesses to have the correct HR procedures in place. Discrimination, unfair dismissals, and wrongful terminations can cost companies significant amounts in legal fees and compensation—and more importantly, they damage reputations. At Consensus HR, we work closely with businesses to ensure they are legally compliant and create positive workplace environments that prevent these kinds of disputes from arising. Taking proactive HR measures is key to avoiding costly mistakes.”

How Consensus HR Can Help:

These cases demonstrate why having a strong HR foundation is vital for employers and employees alike. At Consensus HR, we provide expert HR support, employment law compliance, and tailored business solutions to help companies stay legally compliant and protect their employees.

📌 For expert HR support, visit: www.consensushr.com

Follow Consensus HR for updates on UK employment law:

LinkedIn: Consensus HR LinkedIn
Twitter/X: @ConsensusHR
Facebook: Consensus HR Facebook

🚀 Stay compliant, avoid legal risks, and create a positive work environment with Consensus HR!

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

Click Here

Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.

For further information on any of the HR subjects we provide, please click the heading below:

International_Childrens_Book_Day_Featured_Image

02 04 2025

Celebrating International Children’s Book Day | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, General #worldbookday, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

Title: Celebrating International Children’s Book Day – Why Storytelling Matters in the Workplace Too

📅 Published by Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR

Today is International Children’s Book Day – a global celebration held annually on 2nd April to inspire a love of reading and storytelling in young people. At Consensus HR, we believe the principles of storytelling are just as relevant in the workplace as they are in childhood.

📚 What is International Children’s Book Day?

Launched by the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) in 1967, International Children’s Book Day promotes literacy and children’s literature. Every year, a different country sponsors the event, sharing a message that highlights the importance of books in shaping minds and encouraging creativity.

🏢 What Does This Have to Do with HR?

Storytelling is a powerful communication tool – whether it’s reading a bedtime story or leading a team meeting. In Human Resources, we use storytelling to:

Communicate company values and culture
Onboard and train employees effectively
Share success stories that boost morale and motivation
Resolve conflict through open dialogue
Create engaging internal communications and HR strategies

Well-crafted stories help employees connect with a business on a personal level, leading to improved employee engagement, performance management, and overall workplace wellbeing.

💬 A Word from Matthew Chilcott – Owner, Consensus HR:

“As we mark International Children’s Book Day, I’m reminded how vital it is to foster creativity and open communication in the workplace. Just as stories shape young minds, effective storytelling within a business can shape positive cultures, stronger leadership, and happier teams.”

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Supporting Development at All Ages:

At Consensus HR, we don’t just focus on processes and compliance – we focus on people. Whether through management development, employee relations, or HR training, our goal is to build environments where everyone can learn, grow, and thrive.

We encourage businesses to share stories with their teams – whether it’s about overcoming a challenge, recognising team success, or simply celebrating achievements. These moments build trust, enhance communication, and reinforce your company’s purpose.

🔗 Useful Links:

🔎 HR Keywords included:

Human Resources, employee engagement, workplace wellbeing, performance management, HR strategy, onboarding, employee development, internal communication, leadership development, management training

💼 Stay Connected with Consensus HR:

🌐 Website
📘 Facebook
🐦 Twitter / X
💼 LinkedIn
📸 Instagram

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

Click Here

Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.

For further information on any of the HR subjects we provide, please click the heading below:

02 04 2025

Did You Know? HR Fact 4 – Dismissing an Employee Over Two Years of Service Requires Caution | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, Employment Contracts, Employment Law, General @sg1businessclub, #bedfordshirebusinesses, #consensus hr, #consensushr, #hertfordshirebusinesses, Business, Business Owners, employment law, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

Did You Know?

Did You Know that HR laws and regulations are constantly evolving, and staying informed is crucial for every business. Each week, we share an essential HR fact to help you navigate employment law, avoid costly mistakes, and create a fair, compliant workplace.

Fact 4: Dismissing an Employee Over Two Years of Service Requires Caution:

Did you know that employees with two or more years of continuous service gain full unfair dismissal rights? This means they can challenge their dismissal at an employment tribunal unless the employer has a fair reason and follows the correct procedure.

Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR, comments: “Employers must always follow a fair disciplinary and dismissal process to avoid costly tribunal claims. Seeking HR advice before taking action is essential.”

Previous Weeks Facts:

Fact 1: Unfair Dismissal Claims Can Be Costly

Fact 2: Contacts of Employment must be given on day one of employment or prior.

Fact 3: Employees accrue holiday pay when sick

How Consensus HR Can Help:

HR compliance is crucial for any business, and at Consensus HR, we provide expert advice and support to help companies stay legally compliant while fostering a positive work environment.

📌 For expert HR support, visit: www.consensushr.com

Follow Consensus HR for more HR facts and updates: 🔹 LinkedIn: Consensus HR 🔹 Twitter/X: @ConsensusHR 🔹 Facebook: Consensus HR

🚀 Stay compliant, avoid legal risks, and create a thriving workplace with Consensus HR!

Our Range of Services

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

Click Here

Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.

For further information on any of the HR subjects we provide, please click the heading below:

01 04 2025

April Fools’ Day at Work | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, General @AprilFools, @sg1businessclub, #Hertfordshirebusiness, Business, Business Owners, BusinessBuzzStevenage, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

Keep It Fun, Friendly, and HR Compliant!

Posted by Matthew Chilcott – Owner, Consensus HR | 1st April 2025

April Fools’ Day – the perfect excuse for a little light-hearted fun at work! But before you unleash your inner prankster, remember: what might seem like harmless banter can quickly turn into a Human Resources headache if not handled correctly.

At Consensus HR, we always encourage positive company culture, team morale, and a bit of fun in the workplace – as long as it’s inclusive, professional, and doesn’t breach any HR policies or employment law.

Workplace Pranks – What’s HR Got to Do with It?

Done right, a well-placed office prank can boost employee engagement, strengthen team dynamics, and bring some much-needed cheer. But when pranks cross the line, they can lead to grievances, disciplinary action, or even claims of harassment or bullying.

HR Tips for a Fun and Respectful April Fools’ Day:

✅ Always respect your team’s boundaries
✅ Avoid jokes about protected characteristics (as defined by the Equality Act 2010)
✅ Steer clear of digital pranks involving emails, passwords, or systems
✅ Never let humour become a form of exclusion
✅ Ensure any banter aligns with your company’s Code of Conduct

Why April Fools’ Day is an HR Opportunity

April Fools’ isn’t just about tricks – it’s an opportunity for business owners and managers to reflect on their workplace culture and employee wellbeing. Are you creating an environment where laughter is shared, or one where humour hides poor leadership?

As an outsourced HR consultancy, we work with businesses to ensure policies are in place that promote equality, inclusivity, and respect – while still allowing for some office fun.

Comment from Matthew Chilcott – Owner, Consensus HR:

“At Consensus HR, we believe that a happy team is a productive team. A little fun at work is great for morale, but it should never be at the expense of others. April Fools’ Day is a great reminder of how HR can help create a culture of respect and positivity.”

Let Consensus HR Help You Build a Happy, Compliant Team

If you’re unsure how to strike the balance between fun and professionalism, or want to review your workplace behaviour policy, employee handbook, or grievance procedure, we’re here to help.

👉 Visit our website

📧 Email us: info@consensushr.com

📞 Call us on: 01438 576750

Stay connected for HR insights, updates, and tips:

🔗 LinkedIn – Consensus HR
🔗 Facebook – Consensus HR
🔗 Instagram – @consensushr
🔗 Twitter/X – @ConsensusHR

Consensus HR – Your Outsourced HR Department
Providing HR support, employment law advice, and HR documentation for businesses of all sizes across the UK.

Happy April Fools’ Day from all of us at Consensus HR – and remember, don’t prank your Manager!

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

Click Here

Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.

For further information on any of the HR subjects we provide, please click the heading below:

01 04 2025

Neurodiversity Conflicts Lead to Tribunal for 1 in 10 Organisations | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, Disciplinary & Grievance, Employment Law, General, Handbook, Health & Safety @sg1businessclub, #BTCstevenage, #hertfordshirebusinesses, #neurodiversity, #Stevenagebusineses, Business, Business Owners, BusinessBuzzStevenage, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, https://www.facebook.com/groups/stevenagebuzz/, Small Business, SME, SME's

Neurodiversity Conflicts Lead to Tribunal for 1 in 10 Organisations

By Matthew Chilcott, Owner – Consensus HR

Recent findings show that 1 in 10 UK organisations have experienced an employment tribunal due to neurodiversity-related conflicts, highlighting a pressing need for greater inclusivity and understanding in the workplace.

A report by Neurodiversity in Business (NiB), as published in People Management, revealed that a third of employers are unsure how to support neurodiverse individuals, while 65% of neurodivergent employees feel misunderstood or unsupported by their managers or organisations.

Understanding Neurodiversity in the Workplace

Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in how people think, learn, and process information. This includes conditions such as:

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Dyslexia
Dyspraxia
Tourette Syndrome

Employers have a legal duty under the Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments for neurodivergent individuals. Failing to do so can lead to claims of discrimination or unfair dismissal.

The Legal and Cultural Implications for Employers

When organisations overlook neurodivergent needs, the consequences can include:

Discrimination and unfair dismissal tribunal claims
Financial penalties and reputational damage
Low morale and high employee turnover
Loss of talent due to non-inclusive practices

A notable 2023 case involved an autistic employee winning a discrimination claim after being unfairly dismissed due to the employer failing to adjust working practices appropriately.

How HR Can Improve Neurodiversity Inclusion

At Consensus HR, we support businesses by:

Reviewing HR policies to ensure legal compliance
Offering neurodiversity training to managers and teams
Implementing reasonable adjustments and tailored support plans
Enhancing recruitment and onboarding processes to be neuro-inclusive

Our goal is to create workplaces where all individuals can thrive, regardless of how their brains are wired.

👉 Learn more about our HR services

Comment from Matthew Chilcott – Owner of Consensus HR

“At Consensus HR, we see first-hand how employers can unknowingly fall short when supporting neurodivergent individuals. This latest data showing that 1 in 10 organisations have ended up at tribunal is a red flag. Neurodiversity is not a challenge to be avoided – it’s a strength to be embraced. With the right HR policies and open conversations, businesses can build inclusive teams that drive innovation and loyalty.”

– Matthew Chilcott, Owner – Consensus HR

Next Steps for Employers

To avoid legal risk and create an inclusive culture: ✅ Conduct internal audits on inclusion policies
✅ Provide neurodiversity awareness training
✅ Review recruitment and performance management processes
✅ Seek expert HR guidance when unsure

📥 Contact Consensus HR today for tailored support:

🌐 Visit our website
📧 Email: info@consensushr.com
☎ Phone: 01438 310062

Connect with Consensus HR Online

Conclusion

As UK employment law continues to evolve and tribunals increasingly spotlight inclusion failures, businesses must act. Prioritising neurodiversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s a vital part of building a legally compliant and forward-thinking organisation.

If you’re unsure where to start, the team at Consensus HR is here to help. With our retained HR services, you gain expert, proactive support that puts people and performance first.

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

Click Here

Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.

For further information on any of the HR subjects we provide, please click the heading below:

31 03 2025

World Autism Acceptance Week: 31 March – 6 April | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, General @sg1businessclub, #autism, #consensus hr, #consensushr, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

World Autism Acceptance Week: 31 March – 6 April | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

World Autism Acceptance Week: 31 March – 6 April | Supporting Neurodiversity in the Workplace

At Consensus HR, we are committed to creating inclusive workplaces where everyone, including autistic employees, can thrive. World Autism Acceptance Week (31 March – 6 April) is a crucial time to raise awareness and promote understanding of autism in the workplace.

Why Autism Acceptance Matters in Business:

Employers who embrace neurodiversity benefit from a workforce rich in different perspectives, problem-solving approaches, and innovation. However, for many autistic individuals, workplace challenges such as communication barriers, sensory sensitivities, and structured environments can make employment difficult. With the right HR policies and support, businesses can ensure all employees feel valued and empowered.

How HR Can Support Neurodiverse Employees:

At Consensus HR, we help businesses across Herts & Beds implement inclusive HR strategies to support autistic employees, including:

✅ Adjustments to the work environment – Reducing sensory overload and offering quiet spaces
✅ Clear communication – Using structured, written instructions and predictable routines
✅ Training for managers & teams – Encouraging awareness and understanding
✅ Flexible working options – Supporting individual needs and work styles

Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR, Says:

“Workplace inclusion isn’t just about compliance—it’s about valuing each employee’s strengths. By making small, practical adjustments, businesses can tap into the incredible talents of autistic employees while fostering a more inclusive culture.”

If you need advice on HR policies, employee support, or workplace adjustments, our team at Consensus HR is here to help.

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Let’s work together to build inclusive workplaces where every employee can reach their full potential. #AutismAcceptance #NeurodiversityAtWork #ConsensusHR

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