FAQs

How much notice do I need to give a leaver?

The statutory notice period in the UK depends on how long an employee has worked for their employer:

  • 1 month to 2 years: At least one week’s notice
  • 2 to 12 years: One week’s notice for each year of service, up to a maximum of 12 weeks
  • 12 years or more: 12 weeks’ notice

Contractual notice: You must follow the contract specifying a longer notice period.

For free managers guides and templates  –  Termination Guide and template & resignation acceptance letter template (Support section)  👉 – https://breathingspacehr.co.uk/how-to-hr/

Go back to FAQs

Other questions we get asked about Support

Support

What is the law on maternity/paternity leave?

maternity leave is 52 weeks (26 weeks ordinary and 26 weeks additional), with statutory maternity pay (SMP) for up to 39 weeks. Paternity leave is 1 or 2 weeks, with statutory paternity pay (SPP) for up to 2 weeks. Both are subject to eligibility criteria.

Read more
Support

How do I correctly calculate holidays for leavers?

Holiday Entitlement  – (pro rata) number of days worked/number of days in a year x Holiday Entitlement (Incl Bank Holidays) Subtract any holiday already taken. If the employee has taken more than accrued, deduct the overused days from their final pay. If they’ve accrued more leave than taken, pay for the remaining days. For free […]

Read more
Support

What is the process for filing a workplace grievance?

Review the Policy: Check your company’s grievance procedure, usually in the employee handbook. Informal Discussion: Try to resolve the issue informally by speaking to your manager or HR. Formal Complaint: If unresolved, submit a formal grievance in writing, detailing the issue and any attempts to resolve it. Investigation: HR or a designated person will investigate […]

Read more
Support

How can I stay on top of compliance issues?

To manage compliance effectively: Hire Breathing Space to keep you on track OR failing that!Stay Informed: Regularly review industry regulations and legal updates. Train Your Team: Provide compliance training for employees and managers. Document Policies: Maintain clear policies and update them as needed. Conduct Regular Audits: Identify and address risks proactively. Seek Legal Expertise: Consult legal professionals for guidance. Use Compliance Tools: Leverage software to track deadlines and requirements.

Read more
Support

An employee’s been absent for a while. What should we do?

Keep in touch sensitively, hold review meetings, seek medical/Occupational Health advice. Consider reasonable adjustments, and follow your absence/capability policy. Treat long-term sickness fairly and consistently.

Read more
Support

We’re a start-up with nothing in place. What’s legally essential?

Written employment contracts, core policies (disciplinary, grievance, absence, equality, data protection), Ro-work checks, payroll and auto-enrolment, Basic H&S, and compliant onboarding. Add a staff handbook as you grow.

Read more

Not found what you’re looking for? See our other categories

Employment Rights Act 2025 Explainer Download Now
Book a free consultation