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National Work Life Week

National Work Life Week 2025: How HR Can Help Businesses Balance Success and Wellbeing

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🌍 National Work Life Week – 21st to 25th October: Balancing Success and Wellbeing

National Work Life Week (21st–25th October 2025), organised by the Working Families charity, is an annual campaign designed to help businesses and employees focus on achieving a healthy balance between work and personal life.

In today’s fast-paced environment, striking that balance is more important than ever. Long hours, stress, and blurred boundaries between home and work life can harm employee wellbeing, productivity, and engagement. For employers, this can mean higher absenteeism, lower morale, and an increased risk of staff turnover.

🧩 Why Work-Life Balance Matters

When employees feel supported and trusted to manage their time effectively, both productivity and loyalty increase. A flexible and balanced work culture leads to:

  • Reduced stress and burnout

  • Improved staff retention

  • Higher motivation and performance

  • A stronger employer brand

Work-life balance isn’t just a wellbeing initiative — it’s a business performance strategy.

💼 What Employers Can Do

As part of National Work Life Week, employers are encouraged to review their HR policies and consider initiatives that promote a healthy balance, such as:

  • Flexible working arrangements (hybrid, remote, or compressed hours)

  • Encouraging regular breaks and holidays

  • Promoting mental health support and open conversations

  • Setting clear boundaries on out-of-hours communication

  • Leading by example — senior managers should model balance themselves

🧭 How Consensus HR Can Help

At Consensus HR, we work with SMEs across all sectors to build practical HR strategies that promote wellbeing, engagement, and compliance. Our retained HR support ensures that all policies — from flexible working to mental health — are up to date, legally compliant, and genuinely effective.

Comment from Matthew Chilcott – Owner:
“National Work Life Week is an excellent opportunity for employers to stop and reflect on how they support their teams. Businesses that value wellbeing and balance create happier, more productive workplaces — and ultimately achieve better results.”

👉 Learn how Consensus HR can help your business build a positive workplace culture: www.consensushr.com

📲 Follow Consensus HR for more HR updates:

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

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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:

 

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.

 

 

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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:
Click Here

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
Contact Us

Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.

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

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

Copyright © Consensus HR All right reserved.

Designed by JCP Web Designs

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

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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: [email protected]

📞 Call us on: 01438 576750

Stay connected for HR insights, updates, and tips:

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🔗 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

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:
Click Here

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
Contact Us

Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.

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

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

Copyright © Consensus HR All right reserved.

Designed by JCP Web Designs

Strangest Employment Law Cases

Employment Law Cases in the UK – 2 | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

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Strangest_Employment_Law_Cases

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.

2. Record £4.6 Million Disability Discrimination Payout:

n one of the largest disability discrimination payouts in UK employment tribunal history, a London council was ordered to pay a staggering £4.6 million to a former employee in March 2024. The case highlighted serious workplace harassment, failure to make reasonable adjustments, and discriminatory treatment while the employee was on medical leave. This record-breaking compensation underscores the importance of effective HR policies, inclusive workplace practices, and proactive employee support to prevent costly legal disputes. Employers must ensure compliance with the Equality Act 2010 to avoid similar tribunal claims. 

Read more

 

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:

🚀 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

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:
Click Here

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
Contact Us

Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.

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

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

Copyright © Consensus HR All right reserved.

Designed by JCP Web Designs

Employment Rights Bill Amendments

Employment Rights Bill Amendments | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

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Latest News:

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Employment Rights Bill Amendments: What Employers Need to Know:

By Matthew Chilcott, Owner, Consensus HR

The UK Government has made amendments to the Employment Rights Bill, which the CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development) believes provide greater clarity on key aspects, such as Statutory Sick Pay and collective consultations. While these updates offer some much-needed detail to help businesses prepare, concerns remain about the feasibility of certain provisions—particularly regarding zero hours contracts and trade union recognition.

At Consensus HR, we always stress the importance of well-structured employment legislation that benefits both employers and employees. However, the complexity and sheer volume of amendments within this Bill underline the challenges businesses will face when implementing the changes.

The Need for Clarity and Support:

The CIPD has urged the government to work closely with employer organisations, including themselves, to produce a clear, phased implementation timeline. This would ensure that businesses have the support and guidance necessary to transition smoothly.

“The sheer number of amendments to this legislation underlines the size and complexity of this bill for employers. The government must ensure that, through consultation, the details of the measures are workable and can improve workplace practices.” – Ben Willmott, Head of Public Policy, CIPD.

Zero Hours Contracts and Agency Workers:

One of the most debated elements of the Bill is the new right for zero hours contract workers to request a guaranteed hours contract. While this is a step towards fairer working conditions, its application to agency workers remains uncertain.

Agency workers play a crucial role in the UK’s flexible workforce, allowing businesses to manage fluctuating demands while offering individuals a pathway into permanent employment. The government has wisely allowed more time to refine this policy, and if no practical solution is found, the CIPD will advocate for agency workers to be exempt from these provisions.

Additionally, the introduction of compensation for zero hours workers whose shifts are cancelled at short notice is a welcome move. Many businesses already implement fair cancellation policies, and this provision should help standardise good practice across industries.

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Trade Union Recognition: Challenges for Employers:

Proposed changes that would make it easier for unions to gain recognition, access workplaces, and take industrial action could have significant implications for businesses. Many employers, particularly smaller ones, may not have prior experience in dealing with trade unions and will need additional guidance to navigate these changes effectively.

Consensus HR supports the CIPD’s call for the government to consult further with businesses to ensure these changes encourage effective employment relations rather than creating unnecessary disputes. Greater investment in employment relations infrastructure, such as the Central Arbitration Committee and Acas, will be essential to help employers manage workplace negotiations fairly and efficiently.

Comment from Matthew Chilcott

“These amendments to the Employment Rights Bill highlight the ever-evolving nature of employment law and the need for businesses to stay informed and prepared. At Consensus HR, we understand the challenges that come with legislative changes, and we are here to support employers in implementing best practices while ensuring compliance. Our goal is to help businesses create fair, productive workplaces that benefit both employers and employees.” – Matthew Chilcott, Owner, Consensus HR

What Happens Next?

The CIPD continues to work closely with the government, engaging in discussions and providing expertise to ensure that the Bill results in meaningful, practical improvements to workplace practices. Employers should stay informed about forthcoming guidance and prepare to adjust their policies accordingly.

At Consensus HR, we are closely monitoring these developments and will keep our clients updated with actionable insights and support. If you need guidance on how these legislative changes may impact your business, feel free to reach out to us.

Stay Connected with Consensus HR:

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Together, let’s ensure compliance while fostering a positive and productive work environment for all.

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:
Click Here

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
Contact Us

Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.

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

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

Copyright © Consensus HR All right reserved.

Designed by JCP Web Designs

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