Author: Sam Allcock

Employers are recognising the importance of employee support, with plans to increase benefit investments.43% of businesses intend to enhance their investment in employee benefits over the next year.Concerns exist over some employers choosing direct funding approaches, risking inconsistency and inequality.44% of companies plan to extend workplace support accessibility to more employees.Effective communication is crucial, with 43% of employers aiming to boost the engagement with available benefits.Employers are increasingly acknowledging the necessity of supporting their workforce, as evidenced by 43% of them planning to increase their investment in employee benefits in the coming 12 months. This shift highlights an understanding of…

Creating a thriving workplace culture is crucial for employee satisfaction and organisational success.Recognising milestones and successes enhances morale and motivation among employees.Professional development events offer invaluable growth and engagement opportunities.Innovative event ideas can significantly inspire and energise the workforce.Utilising technology allows remote workers to be an integral part of workplace events.A thriving workplace culture is indispensable, directly impacting employee satisfaction and the overall success of an organisation. Cultivating an environment where team members feel connected, valued, and motivated necessitates careful planning and strategic efforts. Events play a pivotal role in this context, serving as key opportunities for team bonding, celebration,…

The 2024 CIPD Awards in Wales acknowledged top HR talent, showcasing resilience amidst industry challenges.Held at Cardiff City Stadium, the event featured a record-breaking number of entries, with over 80 finalists celebrated.14 organisations and 9 individuals triumphed, underscoring their contributions to HR and people development.The awards spotlighted initiatives in equality, wellbeing, and rising stars within the HR profession.Winners shared insights into their success, focusing on incremental change, authenticity, and personal growth.The 2024 Awards ceremony of the CIPD in Wales celebrated the foremost talent in HR and people development. Held at Cardiff City Stadium, the seventh annual event drew a record…

In the midst of financial turmoil, Simpson Millar’s acquisition of Novum Law signals a stabilising move for clients and staff alike.Simpson Millar, with a presence in Leeds, finalises acquisition of Novum Law, a claims firm in the south west.The acquisition involves taking over Novum Law’s assets and trading name amid financial reassurance needs.Novum Law faced significant financial challenges, including a winding-up petition and an £11m turnover decrease.Commitment to seamless client transition and quality service upheld by Simpson Millar amidst acquisition.Simpson Millar, a national practice known for its robust presence in Leeds, has strategically acquired Novum Law, a claims firm operating…

DAC Beachcroft has significantly strengthened its team with the appointment of two esteemed partners, George Parker-Fuller and Andrew Johnson. Both bring vast experience from Gateley PLC, enhancing DAC’s strategic capabilities.George Parker-Fuller will join the real estate team in Newcastle, contributing his expertise in large-scale residential developments.Andrew Johnson is set to enhance the commercial dispute resolution team in Leeds, known for handling complex, high-value disputes.These appointments align with DAC Beachcroft’s strategy to provide comprehensive services to residential and housebuilder clients.The expertise and leadership of the new partners are expected to reinforce DAC Beachcroft’s service offerings across critical sectors.DAC Beachcroft has announced…

The Flexible Working (Amendment) Regulations Act 2023 marks a significant shift in employment rights, officially coming into effect on April 6. This legislation removes the 26-week qualifying period, enabling employees to request flexible working from day one. It mandates quicker response times from employers and promotes open dialogue about working arrangements. Traditional work patterns are deemed outdated, enhancing work-life balance.The Flexible Working (Amendment) Regulations Act 2023 comes into force on April 6, eliminating the 26-week qualifying period for requesting flexible working.Employees can now make flexible working requests from the first day of employment, with the right to make two requests…

A shift in career planning is now encouraging the development of a career portfolio over the traditional career path.With 29% of individuals changing fields after their first job, a career portfolio offers a broader skillset.Building a diverse set of skills can insulate against industry downturns and job redundancies.Stepping outside comfort zones and engaging in diverse experiences enhances personal and professional growth.Freelancing and developing transferable skills are key elements of a successful career portfolio.In today’s dynamic career landscape, the concept of a career portfolio has emerged as a compelling alternative to the traditional career path. With nearly 29% of the workforce…

The Government’s proposal to reinstate Employment Tribunal fees has sparked significant debate.Unions like TUC and Citizens Advice argue the £55 fee deters valid claims.Previous fee introduction in 2013 led to a substantial drop in cases.Reinstating fees could shift focus from resolving workplace conflicts.Promotion of informal resolution methods is suggested to improve employee relations.The recent proposal by the Government to reintroduce fees for Employment Tribunal claims has ignited a widespread conversation regarding its implications on employee relations. Unions and groups, including the TUC and Citizens Advice, have voiced concerns that a fee of £55 will discourage many individuals from filing legitimate…

Recent findings indicate that small changes in walking habits could notably reduce NHS expenses.Research by Vitality and LSE suggests £15 billion in NHS savings with increased walking.Currently, 35% of the UK population remains inactive, heightening health concerns.Walking 5,000 steps weekly might save the NHS £4 billion annually.Increasing to thrice a week enhances savings to £15 billion, aiding in type 2 diabetes reduction.Research conducted by Vitality in collaboration with the London School of Economics uncovers potential NHS savings through increased physical activity. The study highlights that incremental steps in walking behaviour could yield significant savings for the NHS, potentially reducing costs…

Employee breaks are crucial for maintaining productivity and morale in the workplace. Without them, employees may experience reduced engagement and increased stress.Regular breaks can revitalise employees, keeping them alert and effective throughout their shifts.Concentration levels improve when employees step away from their desks, enhancing problem-solving capabilities.Breaks offer an opportunity for employees to unwind and manage stress, which can otherwise lead to absenteeism.Providing time for social interaction during breaks fosters camaraderie and support among colleagues.Employee breaks are a vital component of workplace dynamics, significantly influencing productivity and morale. Neglecting breaks can lead to decreased employee engagement and heightened stress levels over…