Without employees a business could not function properly, and as part of having a workforce an employer has specific legal responsibilities as well as best practices to follow.
Employer responsibilities include:
- Fair recruitment and selection processes
- Supplying a written statement of employment particulars (on the first day of employment & a wider written statement must be provided within 2 months)
- Fair pay / adhere to minimum wage entitlements (including holiday pay)
- Provision of a detailed payslip (including deductions)
- Following working time regulations
- Auto-enrolment into pension schemes (if applicable)
- Fair and equal treatment of workers
- Fair dismissal processes
- Considering flexible working requests
- Providing rest breaks during the working day
- Protecting the Health & Safety of their employees, including their mental health and wellbeing
- Providing a suitable work environment
While the following are not legally required, employers should consider wider benefits and rewards for employees (such as additional holiday, bonus schemes, Employee Assistance Programmes, team events etc.) as well as personal development opportunities. It’s also important that managers provide feedback and recognition of success. Ensuring employees feel happy, appropriately rewarded, and valued will in turn help attract and retain the best talent for your organisation.