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/

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Other questions we get asked about Support

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.

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Support

How do I legally lay off an employee?

Check the employment contract for a layoff clause. Provide written notice explaining the reason for the layoff. Offer statutory guarantee pay if eligible. Consult with the employee and explore alternatives (e.g., reduced hours). If the layoff is extended, consider redundancy procedures. The employee can also request redundancy. Employees can apply for redundancy and claim redundancy […]

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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.

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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.

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Support

Can we dismiss quickly during probation?

Probation allows faster decisions but still requires a fair process: concerns explained, a chance to respond, notice/pay handled correctly, and care taken to avoid discrimination.

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Support

When is a formal investigation needed and what should it cover?

Use one wherever facts are unclear or allegations are serious. Gather evidence, interview relevant parties, keep notes, and assess credibility before deciding next steps.

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