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International Friendship Day

🌍 International Friendship Day 2025: Building Positive Workplace Relationships | Consensus HR

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Building Strong Workplace Relationships | Consensus HR

International Friendship Day, celebrated on 30th July, is a global reminder of the value of friendship and positive connections in every aspect of life – including the workplace. In today’s fast-paced business environment, fostering strong, friendly relationships at work is more than a “nice to have” – it’s essential for a healthy, productive, and engaged workforce.

đŸ€ Why Friendship Matters at Work

Studies consistently show that having meaningful friendships at work leads to:
✔ Higher employee engagement – People are more likely to stay committed to their roles if they feel connected to their colleagues.
✔ Improved mental health & wellbeing – Workplace friendships can reduce stress and create a supportive environment.
✔ Increased collaboration & teamwork – Employees who trust and respect one another work better together, driving productivity.

At Consensus HR, we see firsthand how strong workplace relationships can transform businesses – from reducing conflicts to improving retention and performance.

📱 Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR, comments:

“International Friendship Day is a great opportunity for businesses to reflect on how they’re encouraging positive relationships in the workplace. Whether it’s through team-building activities, effective communication, or strong HR policies, fostering a culture of respect and support helps teams thrive – and ultimately benefits the business too.”

✅ How HR Can Support Workplace Friendships

  • Encouraging open communication – Creating a safe environment for employees to share ideas and concerns.

  • Promoting inclusivity & respect – Ensuring all employees feel valued, regardless of background.

  • Offering team-building opportunities – Activities that help colleagues connect outside their daily tasks.

  • Addressing conflicts early – Effective HR policies prevent small issues from escalating and damaging relationships.

🌟 Celebrating Friendship at Work – What Can Employers Do?

  • Organise a team lunch or coffee morning to bring people together.

  • Recognise and reward collaborative efforts.

  • Encourage mentoring or buddy schemes to support new starters.

📌 Need help creating a positive workplace culture?

At Consensus HR, we provide tailored HR & Employment Law support to businesses of all sizes. From managing workplace relationships to ensuring your HR policies support a healthy, inclusive culture, we’re here to help.

📞 Contact us today: www.consensushr.com

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World Hepatitis Day - 28th July

🌍 World Hepatitis Day – 28th July | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

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🌍 World Hepatitis Day – 28th July | Promoting Health in the Workplace | Consensus HR

World Hepatitis Day, observed on 28th July, is a global awareness campaign led by the World Health Organisation (WHO), aiming to raise understanding of viral hepatitis and its impact on health systems, workplaces, and communities. With nearly 354 million people living with hepatitis B and C globally, employers have a vital role in ensuring safe, supportive, and health-conscious working environments.

Why It Matters for Employers and HR Teams

At Consensus HR, we believe in promoting employee health and wellbeing as a critical component of an effective HR strategy. Hepatitis can often be a hidden illness, with many individuals unaware they are infected. Left untreated, it can lead to serious long-term health conditions such as liver disease and cancer, impacting employee productivity, attendance, and overall workplace morale.

Employers are encouraged to:

  • Promote awareness among staff through internal communications and training.

  • Maintain strict confidentiality and sensitivity when supporting employees with health conditions.

  • Ensure inclusive sickness absence and return-to-work policies are in place.

  • Support workplace health screenings and access to medical support where possible.

  • Review occupational health and safety procedures, particularly where there is potential for contact with blood or bodily fluids.

💬 Comment from Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR:

“World Hepatitis Day reminds us how crucial it is for employers to create safe, informed workplaces where employee health is prioritised. Whether it’s hepatitis or another chronic condition, employers must foster environments where people feel supported and have access to the right policies, advice, and medical signposting. A robust HR strategy should always consider employee wellbeing alongside operational needs.”

Supporting Resources:

Need Help Creating a Health-Conscious Workplace?

At Consensus HR, we support businesses in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, and surrounding areas with developing legally compliant HR policies, health-related absence procedures, and occupational health support that put employee wellbeing at the heart of your operations.

📞 Contact us today – 01438 576750 – to learn how we can help your team thrive:
🌐 www.consensushr.com
📧 [email protected]
📍 Based in Stevenage | Serving Herts & Beds

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HSE 2025 Work-Related Fatalities Report

Did You Know? | HSE Releases 2024–25 Workplace Fatality Statistics | HR & Health & Safety Insights from Consensus HR

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📊 Did You Know? | HSE Publishes Latest Work-Related Fatal Injury Statistics

From April 2024 to March 2025, 124 workers tragically lost their lives in work-related incidents across Great Britain, according to new figures released by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

While this is lower than the previous year’s total of 138, it remains broadly in line with pre-pandemic averages, highlighting the ongoing need for strong health and safety practices in the workplace.

⚠ Top Causes of Fatal Injuries:

  • Falls from height: 35 deaths

  • Struck by a moving object: 18 deaths

  • Trapped by something collapsing/overturning: 17 deaths

The HSE has also released figures for Mesothelioma, a terminal cancer caused by past asbestos exposure, with 2,218 deaths reported in 2023.

💬 Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR, says:

“These figures are a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining and enforcing robust health and safety measures in the workplace. Employers must remain vigilant and ensure that all risk assessments and safety protocols are regularly updated and followed.”

👉 Read the HSE press release:
https://press.hse.gov.uk/2024/07/01/hse-releases-annual-workplace-fatalities-data/

👉 View the full fatal injury statistics:
https://www.hse.gov.uk/statistics/fatals.htm

📞 Need Help with Health & Safety Compliance?

At Consensus HR, we support businesses with tailored HR and health & safety advice to reduce risks and meet legal requirements.

đŸ“© Contact us today to find out how we can help your team stay safe and compliant:
https://www.consensushr.com/contact-us/

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
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Employment Rights Bill - Roadmap for Employers

📜 Employment Rights Bill: A Roadmap for UK Employers | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

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📜 Employment Rights Bill: A Roadmap for UK Employers

The UK’s proposed Employment Rights Bill brings one of the most significant reforms in employment law in recent years. It aims to deliver a “New Deal for Working People”, enhancing employee protections while creating a fairer labour market.

At Consensus HR, we provide expert HR & Employment Law support to help businesses in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire prepare for change.

đŸ§Ÿ Key Employment Law Reforms

According to the official roadmap, the Employment Rights Bill will introduce:

1ïžâƒŁ Day-One Employment Rights

  • Protection against unfair dismissal from day one

  • Immediate eligibility for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) and paternity leave

2ïžâƒŁ Fair Work Enforcement Agency

A new body to oversee compliance with employment law by combining existing agencies.

3ïžâƒŁ Ending Exploitative Practices

  • Regulation of zero-hour contracts

  • Ban on controversial “fire and rehire” tactics

4ïžâƒŁ Stronger Trade Union Rights

  • Easier recognition of trade unions

  • Better access to employees in the workplace

5ïžâƒŁ Flexible Working by Default

Employees will have the right to request flexible working from day one (subject to business grounds for refusal).

📅 Proposed Implementation Timeline

The Employment Rights Bill will be introduced in phases:

  • April 2025: Day-one rights, parental leave updates, and establishment of the Fair Work Agency

  • Late 2025–2027: Ban on fire-and-rehire, zero-hour contract reforms, flexible working rights, and trade union enhancements

Note: Some changes may be delayed due to consultation feedback and business community concerns.

💬 Comment from Matthew Chilcott – Consensus HR

“The Employment Rights Bill introduces a wide range of changes that will impact all businesses, especially SMEs. While the goal is a fairer workplace, these reforms bring added responsibility for employers. At Consensus HR, our role is to help businesses apply these changes correctly—reducing risk and supporting a productive, legally compliant workplace.”

“We strongly encourage employers to review their current HR practices and employment contracts now to avoid future issues.”

✅ What Employers Should Do Now

Here’s how to prepare for the changes:

  • 🔍 Review employee handbooks and contracts for compliance

  • 📋 Ensure dismissal procedures are fair and robust from day one

  • 🕒 Reassess use of zero-hour and casual contracts

  • đŸ’Œ Update your flexible working policies

  • 📣 Prepare for union engagement

  • đŸ€ Seek expert HR advice before making policy changes

đŸ‘„ How Consensus HR Can Help

We offer tailored HR support including:

  • 📄 Employment contract and policy reviews

  • 🔧 Documentation updates for new legal obligations

  • đŸ‘„ Redundancy & dismissal process support

  • đŸ§‘â€đŸ« Flexible working strategies

  • 📞 Ongoing retained HR support and training

👉 View Our Services

🔗 Useful Links

📞 Get in Touch

Is your business prepared for these changes?

Contact Consensus HR today for professional, jargon-free advice tailored to your business.

👉 www.consensushr.com | 📧 [email protected] | 📞 01438 576750

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
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HR Leads the Way: How Gender Pay Gap

📊 HR Leads the Way: How Gender Pay Gap Reporting Is Driving Transparency & Equality in the Workplace | Consensus HR

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📊 Did You Know?

“Since the UK introduced mandatory gender‑pay‑gap reporting in 2017, there’s been not only a gradual narrowing of the gap—but also a notable shift in who signs off on it. By 2024, HR professionals—mostly women—became the primary approvers of gender‑pay‑gap data. Companies where HR leads the reporting process tend to have smaller pay disparities.”

Matthew Chilcott, HR consultant at Consensus HR, comments:
“This shift underscores HR’s strategic importance—not just as data gatherers, but as drivers of corporate transparency and equity. When HR leads on pay reporting, it sends a clear signal: fostering fairness isn’t a box‑ticking exercise, it’s a core value.”

🔗 Learn More

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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World Emoji Day

🌍 World Emoji Day – 17th July| Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

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🌍 World Emoji Day – 17th July | How Emojis Influence Workplace Communication

World Emoji Day is celebrated globally on 17th July each year. While emojis might seem like playful icons used in casual chats, they have increasingly become part of our everyday business communication — from quick Slack messages to team celebrations and social media marketing. But what role do emojis really play in workplace communication? And are they always appropriate?

💬 The Rise of Emojis in Professional Environments

Emojis help convey tone, emotion, and intent in digital conversations where body language is absent. A simple thumbs-up 👍 or smile 😊 can soften a message or show appreciation instantly. In diverse workplaces, they can bridge language gaps and promote inclusive communication.

However, it’s essential to consider professional boundaries. Overuse or misinterpretation of emojis can result in confusion, or even HR issues in some cases — especially when symbols are taken out of context.

📌 HR Best Practice: When to Use Emojis in the Workplace

At Consensus HR, we advise the following when it comes to emoji use at work:

  • ✅ Use emojis for positive reinforcement or team morale (e.g. 🎉 for good news or team wins).

  • ❌ Avoid emojis in formal documents or sensitive feedback.

  • ✅ Align emoji use with your company tone and culture.

  • ❌ Be cautious of emojis that could be misread or seen as unprofessional.

💬 Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR, Comments:

“World Emoji Day is a great reminder of how communication in the workplace is evolving. At Consensus HR, we recognise that while emojis can enhance team spirit and emotional expression, it’s vital that businesses have clear communication guidelines in place to maintain professionalism and inclusivity. As always, communication policies should evolve with the times — but with a firm understanding of their impact.”

đŸ›Ąïž How Consensus HR Can Help

Are your workplace communication policies up to date? Do you have clear guidance on acceptable use of internal messaging tools, email tone, or emoji use?

✅ As your outsourced HR & Employment Law partner, we help businesses set the tone with practical, up-to-date employee handbooks and communication policies tailored to their culture and industry.

📞 Contact us today to update your policies or get guidance on internal communication best practices.

🔗 Let’s Connect

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Whistleblowing in the workplace

đŸ›Ąïž Strengthening Whistleblower Protections | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

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đŸ›Ąïž Strengthening Whistleblower Protections in UK Workplaces

By Matthew Chilcott – July 2025

What’s Changing: New Whistleblower Measures in the Employment Rights Bill

Under the forthcoming Employment Rights Bill, due for Royal Assent around summer 2025, UK employers will face increased obligations around whistleblowing. Notably:

Why This Matters for Employers & Employees

Stakeholder Key Impact
Employees Whistleblowers gain stronger legal safeguards, encouraging early reporting of misconduct, bullying, or harassment.
Employers Mandatory investigation of all bullying/harassment complaints; failure to do so risks tribunal claims.
Organisational culture Prompt, thorough investigations underpin trust, transparency, and proactive risk management.

Insights from Matthew Chilcott (Owner, Consensus HR)

“With the expansion of protected disclosures to include harassment and a statutory duty to investigate, employers must take these complaints far more seriously than before,” says Matthew Chilcott, FCIPD.

He adds:

“This is not only about legal compliance—prompt investigation strengthens workplace culture, drives talent retention, and reduces risk storms before they hit.”

Chilcott highlights that these changes shift whistleblowing from a reactive to a strategic, preventative, and reputationally mindful stance.

Practical Steps for HR & Leadership Teams

  1. Update whistleblowing policy
    Ensure it addresses bullying, harassment, and sexual misconduct—not just fraud or health and safety—and outlines escalation and investigation processes.

  2. Train managers and investigators
    Conduct workshops to cultivate awareness of new obligations: timely receipt, triage, impartial reporting, and investigative fuelling.

  3. Formalise reporting channels
    Offer multiple safe routes (e.g. email, hotline, manager, independent HR or DPO) and confirm receipt and next steps transparently.

  4. Document and act
    Keep clear records of submissions, decisions, actions taken, and outcomes. This supports legal defence and internal accountability.

  5. Review and monitor
    Regularly audit how many complaints are received, how quickly they’re acted on, and whether outcomes are adequately communicated.

The Bigger Picture & Why It Matters

  • Legal accountability shift: Employers are no longer “permitted” but required to investigate—even if no harm was found.

  • Cultural transition: Early action builds trust, deters misconduct, and protects brand reputation.

  • Greater risk for avoidance: Cover-ups or dismissal of wrongdoing could result in tribunal claims and compensation awards—not to mention damaged public trust.

🔍 Final Thoughts

The Employment Rights Bill’s whistleblower provisions and expanded harassment protections represent a fundamental shift in organisational responsibility. With legal obligations now demanding action, transparency, and cultural change, HR leaders must act decisively. As Matthew Chilcott notes, “Being proactive isn’t optional—it’s essential for legal compliance and organisational health.”

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not legal advice.

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

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HSE 2025 Work-Related Fatalities Report

📊 HSE 2025 Work-Related Fatalities Report | HR & Health & Safety Insights from Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

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📊 Latest HSE Annual Work-Related Fatality Figures Released | Consensus HR

Published: 2nd July 2025
Author: Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR
Category: HR & Health and Safety Compliance

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has released its annual statistics for work-related fatal injuries, covering the period from April 2024 to March 2025.

⚠ Key Statistics:

  • 124 workers were killed in work-related incidents (a decrease of 14 compared to the previous year).

  • 2,218 deaths from mesothelioma (a cancer linked to asbestos exposure) were recorded in 2023.

  • The construction industry accounted for 35 deaths, while agriculture, forestry and fishing followed with 23 fatalities.

  • Falls from height were the most common cause of worker deaths (35 in total).

  • 92 members of the public also lost their lives in workplace-related incidents, though they were not at work themselves.

Click here to read the full HSE release.

💬 Comment from Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR

“These figures are a sobering reminder that workplace safety must remain a priority for all businesses, regardless of size or sector and is why we team up with a local Health & Safety Provider.

At Consensus HR, we continue to support clients in implementing robust Health & Safety practices and ensuring their teams receive the right training and support to prevent these tragedies. Even one life lost at work is one too many.”

đŸ›Ąïž How Consensus HR Can Help Your Business:

At Consensus HR, we provide fully outsourced Health & Safety and HR services, ensuring your workplace meets legal obligations while keeping your team safe and productive.

🔗 Health & Safety Compliance Support
🔗 HR Policies & Risk Assessments
🔗 HR Training for Managers & Teams
🔗 Employee Handbook Development

📉 The Mesothelioma Link: Long-Term Impact of Asbestos

The HSE also reported that 2,218 deaths were due to mesothelioma in 2023, showing a slow decline from previous years. These cases primarily relate to historical asbestos exposure, often before the 1980s. While the trend is decreasing, the disease remains a key concern in sectors such as construction, engineering, and shipbuilding.

View the full mesothelioma report (PDF)

🧰 Free Resources from the HSE

The HSE offers free guidance for businesses of all sizes:

đŸ“Č Stay Connected with Consensus HR

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📞 Book a Free Consultation

Whether you’re in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, or Bedfordshire, our expert team is here to help you create a safe and compliant workplace.

👉 Contact Us Today to speak with a qualified HR professional.

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
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World Population Day

🌍 World Population Day – 11th July | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

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🌍 World Population Day – 11th July | Managing People in a Growing World – Consensus HR

World Population Day, observed annually on 11th July, was established by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in 1989 to raise awareness of global population issues. In 2022, the world’s population reached 8 billion people, highlighting the need for sustainable development, social responsibility, and inclusive employment practices across the globe.

As global demographics evolve, employers must consider how workplace policies and HR strategies adapt to meet the needs of a diverse and growing workforce.

đŸ‘„ The Impact on Employers

While population growth is a global issue, its implications are felt at the local level—especially in business. Employers face new challenges and responsibilities, including:

  • Workforce diversity: A broader range of cultures, experiences, and expectations are now part of the UK workforce.

  • Changing skills demand: Employers must prepare for future skills shortages by investing in training and upskilling.

  • Ageing population: With more people working later in life, businesses must implement age-inclusive practices.

  • Sustainability in HR: Social responsibility and sustainable employment practices are now essential for employer reputation.

đŸ—šïž Comment from Matthew Chilcott – Owner of Consensus HR:

“World Population Day is a reminder that people are at the heart of every business. With a growing and increasingly diverse population, employers need to ensure their HR policies are inclusive, legally compliant, and flexible. At Consensus HR, we support businesses to create workplaces that work for everyone—helping employers not only meet their legal obligations but also thrive in a competitive and evolving environment.”

✅ How Consensus HR Supports Employers

At Consensus HR, we work with organisations across various sectors to provide expert, outsourced HR and Employment Law solutions that are tailored, practical, and up to date.

We offer:

  • Bespoke employment contracts, handbooks, and legally compliant HR documentation

  • Advice on managing equality, diversity, and inclusion in the workplace

  • Support with recruitment, performance management, and employee wellbeing

  • HR audits and compliance reviews to ensure businesses meet UK legal requirements

📱 Let’s Build a Better Workplace – Together

As the population grows, so too do the expectations on businesses. Are your HR policies keeping pace? We’re here to help you stay compliant, competitive, and people-focused.

📞 Contact us today for a no-obligation chat
🌐 www.consensushr.com
📧 [email protected]

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Did You Know: Tribunals awarded over ÂŁ1.8 million pounts

Did You Know? | Avoid Costly HR Mistakes: £1.8M Paid in Tribunal Claims Last Year – How Consensus HR Can Help

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📘 Did You Know?


In 2023, UK Employment Tribunals awarded over ÂŁ1.8 million in compensation for unfair dismissal cases alone. Many of these costly outcomes were the result of employers failing to follow correct disciplinary, grievance, or redundancy procedures.

If your business doesn’t have the right HR practices in place, you could be at serious risk of tribunal claims — not to mention reputational damage and staff morale issues.

At Consensus HR, we help businesses of all sizes stay legally compliant with tailored HR solutions. From employee handbooks to performance management and dismissals, we ensure you get it right — first time.

✅ Stay compliant
✅ Reduce risk
✅ Protect your business

👉 Find out how our outsourced HR services can support you

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

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Workers face two-year wait for several new rights

📰 Workers Face Two-Year Wait | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

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📰 Workers Face Two-Year Wait for Several New Rights

Consensus HR – Your Outsourced HR & Employment Law Partner
www.consensushr.com

Recent news from BBC News has confirmed that many of the promised new employment rights under the incoming Employment Rights Bill are now facing delays of up to two years. This means employees and employers alike may need to wait until 2026 or later before key changes become law.

❗ What’s Being Delayed?

The delays affect several proposed workplace rights, including:

  • The right to protection from unfair dismissal from day one – this is now expected to retain the two-year qualifying period for the time being.

  • The ban on exploitative zero-hours contracts – delayed while the government consults further with business groups.

  • Greater regulation of ‘fire and rehire’ practices – also postponed until further legislative time becomes available.

  • Reforms to sick pay and parental leave – including day-one rights for paternity leave and sick pay reforms, have been pushed back for further review.

While some changes may still be introduced sooner, such as the formation of a Fair Work Enforcement Agency this autumn, the majority of key reforms are now unlikely before late 2026 or even 2027.

💬 Comment from Matthew Chilcott, Owner – Consensus HR

“The delay in implementing these workplace reforms highlights the complexities of legislative change—but also the risks of uncertainty. For business owners, especially SMEs, it is essential to plan ahead. Even though changes are delayed, they are still on the horizon. Reviewing internal policies and employment contracts now can avoid last-minute disruption.”

“At Consensus HR, we work with businesses to keep them compliant, informed, and ahead of the curve. Whether it’s preparing for upcoming legislation or supporting day-to-day HR needs, our retained HR services are here to help.”

📌 What Employers Should Do Now:

AreaSuggested Action
ContractsReview probation, dismissal, and working terms to align with expected future reforms.
HandbooksUpdate policies to reflect potential changes—even if implementation is delayed.
TrainingEducate line managers on anticipated rights and how to apply fair practices.
EngagementMaintain transparent communication with employees about their evolving rights.
Tribunal preparednessConsider the risk of claims—tribunal backlogs remain significant, so proactive HR is key.

🧭 Need Help Staying Ahead of Legal Changes?

If you’re unsure how these delays may affect your business or want to ensure your HR practices remain legally compliant, contact us today for a free initial consultation.

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Author: Matthew Chilcott
Owner, Consensus HR – HR & Employment Law Services for Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire & Beyond
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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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Did You Know? A Verbal resignation can be legally binding.

Did You Know? | A Verbal Resignation Can Be Legally Binding | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

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Did you know that a verbal resignation can be legally binding under UK Employment Law, even if nothing is put in writing?

According to the Employment Rights Act 1996, once an employee communicates their intention to resign—whether verbally or in writing—and it’s clear, unambiguous, and given voluntarily, it can be considered valid. This includes statements such as “I quit” or “I’m leaving.”

🔍 However, if the resignation is given in the heat of the moment, or during high emotional stress, employers must give the employee reasonable time to reconsider before accepting it.

📌 Top Tip for Employers: Always follow up a verbal resignation in writing, confirming the conversation and asking for written confirmation to protect both parties.

✅ Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR, comments:

“It’s easy to assume that unless something is in writing, it doesn’t count. But in employment law, a verbal resignation—if clearly stated and voluntary—can carry legal weight. We always advise our clients to seek professional advice immediately in these situations to ensure the correct procedure is followed.”

🌐 Find out more about our outsourced HR & Employment Law support:

👉 www.consensushr.com

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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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