For further information call us on 0118 914 5622 or complete our Contact Us Form to arrange a confidential call back from a qualified solicitor without charge.
Changes to Employment Tribunal Fees
Over the last decade, we have seen the employment tribunal fee regime completely overhauled. Most recently all fees were scrapped and no fee is currently required to submit a claim. However, recent information has shown that this may still change. In July 2013 the government made the decision to introduce fees for bringing a claim […]
The right to refuse work?
Some of the most common queries received in recent weeks have related to whether employers are able to force employees to return to work and, conversely, whether employees can refuse to return to work. Prior to the current pandemic queries of this nature were virtually unheard of; in the majority of cases, an employer is […]
David P Harris discusses the changes to the Furlough scheme from 1 August on BBC Radio Berkshire
Listen to the interview here: For further information call us on 0118 914 5622 or complete our Contact Us Form to arrange a confidential call back from a qualified solicitor without charge.
David P Harris discusses employees rights on quarantine on BBC Radio Berkshire
Listen to the interview here: For further information call us on 0118 914 5622 or complete our Contact Us Form to arrange a confidential call back from a qualified solicitor without charge.
Coronavirus: managing the return to work in the UK
As the UK government begin to lift lockdown restrictions, employers in the UK should begin planning for staff to be able to return to their places of work. Many UK businesses have had to take steps to either limit or entirely reduce the number of employees on their premises during the lockdown period through a […]
David P Harris discusses Redundancy rights for employees on BBC Radio Berkshire
David Harris, the Managing Partner at DPH Legal, was interviewed on Thursday 2 July on BBC Radio Berkshire. As the furlough scheme is gradually coming to an end a lot of businesses are faced with difficult decisions if they can’t afford to keep their current workforce. Some employees will find they are at risk of […]
Criminal investigations. The risk for UK employers furloughing staff
UK employers who are furloughing staff as a result of the coronavirus pandemic could face a criminal investigation from HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) if complicit managers are dishonestly facilitating claims under the coronavirus job retention scheme whilst simultaneously requiring employees to work. Under the current criteria for the coronavirus job retention scheme, employers may […]
Holiday during furlough
Employees on furlough leave continue to accrue statutory holidays and any additional holiday entitlement under their contract of employment. Furloughed employees may take holiday without it disrupting their furlough leave. An employer may, subject to the usual notice requirements, require employees to take holiday whether or not the employee is on furlough leave. However, before […]
David P Harris discusses the updated Flexible Furlough Scheme on BBC Radio Berkshire
David Harris, the Managing Partner at DPH Legal, was interviewed on Wednesday 1 July on BBC Radio Berkshire. The government have announced a change to the current Furlough scheme, making it more flexible to assist companies in bringing back employees over the next three months. These changes include: Employers can bring back workers on a […]
David P Harris discusses the latest changes to the Furlough Scheme on BBC Radio Berkshire
David Harris, the Managing Partner at DPH Legal, was interviewed on Friday 29 May on BBC Radio Berkshire to discuss the changes to the Furlough Scheme which will be implemented in the next few months. These changes include: Employers will be able to bring back furloughed staff part-time from 1 July Employers will have to […]
David P Harris discusses the latest changes from the Government on BBC Radio Berkshire
After Boris Johnson’s speech on Sunday, DPH Legal has been working hard to decipher what this means for the UK workforce. David Harris, the Managing Partner, was interviewed on BBC Radio Berkshire to discuss these changes. Listen to the interview here: If you have any questions or need any legal advice give us a […]
Mark Lafferty discusses the changes to workplaces post lock down
Interviewed on BBC Radio Berkshire, Mark Lafferty, Associate at DPH Legal, looks at the changes to working life as discussions on relaxing lockdown have begun. Listen to the interview here:
David P Harris explains pay on furlough for employees on BBC Radio Berkshire
As payday arrives, many may be wondering how they are to be paid. David Harris, Managing Partner at DPH Legal explains all with Andrew Peach on BBC Radio Berkshire. Listen to the interview here:
David P Harris discusses the latest Furlough updates on BBC Radio Berkshire
David Harris, Managing Partner at DPH Legal discussed the latest updates on Furlough with Sarah Walker at BBC Radio Berkshire. Listen to the interview here:
The Good Work Plan
This month a number of new or revised provisions are to be introduced. It is important employers are aware of the new provisions. These changes are being introduced under the “Good Work Plan”. This plan covers when a contract (or written statement of terms) should be provided to an employee, how to calculate holiday pay, […]
David Harris discusses Furlough leave on BBC Radio Berkshire with Phil Kennedy
David Harris, Managing Partner at DPH Legal was interviewed by Phil Kennedy on BBC Radio Berkshire. Discussing what is Furlough leave, whether can you work during furlough leave and many more important questions. You can listen to the interview here:
David Harris discusses Furlough leave from the employers perspective on BBC Radio Berkshire
David Harris, Managing Partner at DPH Legal was interviewed by Sarah Walker on BBC Radio Berkshire about Furlough leave and what it means for employers. You can listen to the interview here: You can listen to part two of the interview, where he discusses stat sick pay and your rights if starting a new job […]
David Harris discusses the latest announcement on BBC Hereford Radio with Toni McDonald
David Harris, Managing Partner at DPH Legal was interviewed by Toni McDonald on BBC Radio Hereford & Worcester about the government’s latest announcement for self-employed workers. You can listen to the interview here:
David Harris answers listeners questions on BBC Radio Berkshire with Sarah Walker.
David Harris, Managing Partner at DPH Legal was interviewed by Sarah Walker at BBC Radio Berkshire, During the interview, he answered a range of listeners’ questions. You can listen to part one of the interview, where David Harris answers questions on furlough leave, here: You can listen to part two of the interview, […]
David Harris discusses changes to pay for the employed and self employed on BBC West Midlands Radio
David Harris, Managing Partner at DPH Legal was interviewed by Richard Wilford of West Midlands BBC Radio about the latest updates to Employed and self-employed workers’ rights. You can listen to the interview here:
David Harris discusses employment rights on BBC Berkshire Radio
David Harris, Managing Partner at DPH Legal was interviewed by Andrew Peach of BBC Radio Berkshire about the latest updates to workers’ rights after the recent government announcements. You can listen to the interview here:
Covid 19 – Coronavirus and home working
Given the ever-increasing number of cases in the UK and recent announcements by the Government, Employers should now be thinking about whether they need to take any steps to facilitate home working, and encouraging employees to ensure that they have the correct set-up at home to be able to work there if required to do […]
The impact of Coronavirus on wages
Businesses are having to consider how to reduce their wage costs as the coronavirus pandemic starts to have an impact on business and the wider economy. This article sets out what Employers can do when faced with a downturn in business. Employers may be able to take advantage of contractual lay-off and short-time working provisions, […]
David Harris talks to BBC Radio Berkshire about Coronavirus and Sick Pay
David Harris, Managing Partner at DPH Legal was interviewed by Sarah Walker of BBC Radio Berkshire about workers’ rights in relation to sick pay if you need to self-isolate due to Coronavirus. You can listen to the interview here: For further information regarding sick pay and employer or employee rights, you can visit the ACAS […]
David Harris discusses sick pay and self-employed workers on BBC Radio Berkshire
David Harris, Managing Partner at DPH Legal was interviewed by Andrew Peach of BBC Radio Berkshire about workers’ rights in relation to sick pay, particularly those who are self-employed, in relation to coronavirus. You can listen to the interview here: Also go here to read our advice for employers about coronavirus: https://www.dphlegal.com/coronavirus-advice-for-employers/ Should you have any questions […]
David Harris discusses sick pay and self-employed workers on BBC Radio Berkshire
David Harris, Managing Partner at DPH Legal was interviewed by Andrew Peach of BBC Radio Berkshire about workers’ rights in relation to sick pay, particularly those who are self-employed, in relation to coronavirus. Also go here to read our advice for employers about coronavirus: https://www.dphlegal.com/coronavirus-advice-for-employers/ Should you have any questions about coronavirus and your obligations as an […]
David Harris talks about workers rights and Coronavirus on BBC Radio Berkshire
David Harris, Managing Partner at DPH Legal was interviewed by Sarah Walker of BBC Radio Berkshire about workers’ rights in relation to coronavirus. You can listen to the interview here: https://www.dphlegal.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/David-BBC-Interview-CV-2.mp3 Also go to the following page to read our advice for employers about coronavirus: https://www.dphlegal.com/coronavirus-advice-for-employers/ Should you have any questions about coronavirus and your obligations […]
Coronavirus – advice for employers
As the likelihood of more cases of Coronavirus in the UK increases, ACAS has published advice for employers on dealing with the situation. The guidance covers how to deal with employees who have the virus and those who do not want to come to work because they are worried about catching it. In summary, ACAS […]
Employment Law Developments for 2020
As far as employment law changes are concerned April tends to be the busiest time of year and 2020 looks to be no different. April will be upon us before we know it and it is important for companies to prepare in advance for those changes which impact the way they run their businesses and […]
Employment Status Checker
In the wake of a number of recent heavily publicised cases concerning employment status, HMRC has created an online tool to help determine – for tax purposes. Whether an individual is an employee or self-employed, and Whether they might be covered by IR35. The “check employment status for tax” tool can be found via the […]
Is It Against The Law To Pay Men More Than Women?
This is a question that does not have a simple answer since there can be many factors in play that have a direct bearing on the answer. According to the Equal Pay Act of 1970, it is unlawful for an employer to discriminate between a man or woman in regard to pay. While this was […]
Reference requests – a reality check
Employers can usually choose whether to give a reference or not, but if they do elect to provide one, it must be fair and accurate. References must not include inaccurate or misleading information and employers should avoid giving subjective comments or opinions that are not supported by facts. Some references might suggest that the job […]
The ‘Gig Economy’
The Uber tribunal verdict which was handed down in October has far-reaching implications when it comes to the future of the gig economy. Uber Appeals Their Verdict Uber has appealed the verdict, which ruled that the terms and conditions of the arrangement two drivers had with the company meant that they should be classified as […]
Employment Tribunal Fees
Earlier this year, the Supreme Court abolished Employment Tribunal (ET) fees and Employment Appeal Tribunal fees and ruled that the fee regime is unlawful. This means that no one should have been asked to pay a fee and those that did are entitled to be refunded from the government. If the government repays fees to […]
How To Eliminate Discrimination At The Workplace.
Discrimination in the workplace is a big issue. It has immense effects on the performance of a business if it is not eliminated. Workplace discrimination results in lower productivity at the workplace, lower self-esteem, increased absenteeism, and defence costs if the case goes to court, among others. Employers, therefore, need to ensure that their employees […]
What Is Equality In The Workplace?
Workplace equality is a culture within the workplace that is built on fairness. This culture ensures that all members of the workplace are treated with the fairness and respect that they deserve. They are all accorded equal opportunities. Workplace equality does not condone bullying, harassment and discrimination. Equality brings about a conducive environment in the […]
When Liability is Left at the Hotel Room Door
We occasionally deal with issues for clients concerning misconduct and gross misconduct at the office Christmas party. Although a unique situation, DPH Legal are able to provide specialist legal advice on this matter. Judgement From the High Court In this theme, the High Court has delivered an interesting Judgement this month with regard to liability […]
When Should I Contact ACAS
You should contact ACAS if the terms of your employment and the employment law are being infringed on. ACAS will be able to provide advice and conciliation during such times. If you’ve tried to solve an employment issue first by talking to your manager or HR and that has not been successful, you may wish […]
How to carry out a without prejudice (protected) conversation within the workplace
Employers have always experienced difficulties when attempting to hold genuine without prejudice discussions with employees in relation to matters where it was difficult to prove an existing dispute. The difficulties experienced by employers in this regard prompted the government to introduce legislation to allow pre-termination discussions to take place more easily within the workplace. Without […]
Valid Reasons for Redundancy
Redundancy refers to when an employer reduces the workforce because the job is no longer needed. However, if you are fired and someone else fills the position, it’s no longer a redundancy. Some of the common reasons for redundancy include the following. • New technology has been invented making your job unnecessary. Note that, just […]
Brexit’s potential influence on UK Employment Law
Since the decision to exit the European Union has been taken by the British public those connected with UK Employment Law have paid close attention to developments which may affect employment rights within the United Kingdom. Many believe that the decision may be linked with a perceived interference of EU-derived human rights legislation which received […]
Using Mediation For Settling Workplace Disputes
Mediation is a form of workplace dispute resolution that is completely voluntary and confidential. This resolution involves an independent and impartial person who helps individuals or groups to resolve their conflicts. A mediator should not determine outcomes or make any judgements whatsoever during this process. He or she should ask questions that are geared towards […]
A Brief History Of Equal Pay For Men And Women
Women have long been paid less than men for doing the same job. The struggle for equal pay has been dates back to the late 19th century. This is contrary to the widespread belief that it started in the 1960s. Women during World War 1 took on men’s jobs while men were deployed into the […]
Long-term sickness absence – a warning to employers
Many employers will have experienced difficulties arising from long-term sickness absence. The Court of Appeal’s recent decision in O’Brien v Bolton St Catherine’s Academy [2017] EWCA Civ 145 provides some useful guidance for employers when dealing with long-term sickness absence dismissals. In this case, Ms O’Brien had been absent from work due to ill health […]
Don’t risk being named and shamed!
From December 2018 onwards employers who fail to pay an employment tribunal judgment made against them face not only being sent a penalty notice but also being publicly named. This is intended to act as an added incentive to employers to pay up and is part of a series of responses to the “Taylor Review […]
Tackling Sexual Harassment at Work
On 18 December 2018, the government launched a package of 12 announcements to tackle sexual harassment at work, including consultations on legal protections and on additional protections for volunteers and interns. The government plans to bring in a package of measures in this area, including: a new statutory code of practice on sexual harassment, which […]
Unfair Treatment In The Workplace
Unfair treatment of employees in the workplace is discriminatory. It can lead to them feeling ashamed, upset or even scared. The morale of employees goes down. Unfair treatment drains employees of their energies and motivation. This eventually affects the levels of productivity of employees who are being unfairly treated. Unfair Treatment Defined It can be […]
Gig Economy continued…
The very recent case of Gascoigne v Addison Lee Limited is the latest in the growing line of recent Gig Economy cases. Mr Gascoigne was a cycle courier providing services to Addison Lee for more than nine years. He argued that he was a “worker” (a middle ground between an employee and self-employed) and as […]
The Best Way To Solve a Workplace Dispute
Solving a workplace dispute quickly and effectively is a primary concept of ideal management. Poor workplace relationships not only lead to animosity and all kinds of performance issues, but unattended problems can boil over and become serious litigation. So, how do you handle workplace disputes properly? Here are some tips: Make The Conflict Resolution Process […]