FAQs

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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Other questions we get asked about Support

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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 […]

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What is the reason we calculate part-time employees’ holiday entitlement in hours rather than days?

Part-time employees’ holiday entitlement is calculated in hours rather than days to ensure fairness and accuracy, as their working hours may vary. This method accounts for their specific work patterns, making it easier to calculate their pro-rata holiday entitlement based on the actual hours they work compared to full-time employees. For free managers guides and […]

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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.

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Disciplinaries and grievances feel constant. How do we reduce them?

Invest in manager training, set clear expectations, keep documentation tidy, and resolve issues informally where appropriate. Consistency and early intervention prevent escalation.

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Can I continue with an investigation when the person goes off sick?

Yes, you can continue with an investigation if the person goes off sick, but you should be mindful of their health. Consider adjusting the process to accommodate their condition, such as delaying interviews or offering alternative communication methods. Ensure the employee is treated fairly and reasonably throughout the process. For free managers guides and templates  […]

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What is considered workplace harassment?

Workplace harassment is any unwanted conduct related to a protected characteristic (e.g., age, race, sex, disability, religion) that creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment. Harassment can include verbal, physical, or non-verbal behaviour and can involve bullying, inappropriate jokes, or discriminatory comments  (For a free Managers Guide , go to  How To HR  […]

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