Publications

The Office for National Statistics has now released information that the UK's 2021 gender pay gap has grown since 2020 but remains smaller than it was in 2019.

Returning to work: a requirement to work full time from the office may be discriminatory against those with caring responsibilities.

The eagerly anticipated Heat and Buildings Strategy 2021 has now, finally, been published (on 19 October 2021).

On 11 November 2021 it will become law that anyone entering a CQC registered care home (which provides accommodation together with nursing or personal care) must have had a complete course of an authorised Covid-19 vaccine (note that individuals who have been vaccinated with mixed doses of Covid-19 or a non-authorised vaccine will not be considered to be fully vaccinated).

The Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) has upheld a Tribunal judgment that a whistleblower who was dismissed for criticising a colleague was not automatically unfairly dismissed.

2021 has seen the relationship between chief executives and non-executive board members of “not for profit” entities under the spotlight.

Issued every three months, the Banking Update provides you with a brief snapshot of what our team have been up to, as well as a look at any big sector updates or changes.

The SHPS 2020 valuation results were not good news for participating employers who had hoped that, after paying increased deficit contributions from 2019, the deficit in the scheme would have decreased on this occasion.

Following World Mental Health Day on Sunday 10th October 2021, we are reminded of the importance of mental health. Employers are becoming increasingly aware of the need to improve their emotional intelligence, develop compassion and demonstrate that they care about their employees.

Following a consultation that took place last year, the Government has announced that they will be introducing an entitlement to one week’s unpaid leave for carers. This is in recognition of approximately five million people in the UK providing unpaid support to an elderly or disabled relative or friend, whilst juggling other responsibilities including paid employment.

Last week, the government published a consultation document, “Making flexible working the new default” which includes its proposal to allow all employees to request flexible working arrangements from day one of their employment, replacing the current 26 week wait period.

You will no doubt have seen Homes England’s e-mail of 22/09/2021 concerning the “Shared Ownership Model Lease update”.