There are a range of options for employing staff. This CPD session will review the practical differences between different types of work arrangements, such as employees, consultants, partners and apprentices, to help determine what may be the best for a practice. In particular we will look at apprenticeships in the modern economy. Overview of employment law Businesses looking to employ staff for the first time should have an understanding of the key features of employment law – the rights of employees as well as their obligations to their employer. Knowledge of the essentials will make it easier to manage the working relationship and to identify any issues before they escalate. Policies and procedures A look at the policies and procedures to include in a staff handbook. We will consider the essential policies and those which an employer may also consider relevant to its workplace. Staff engagement in the process is important as well as leadership for effective policies and procedures. We will consider how to introduce or change policies, particularly where reporting lines may be changing as the business grows. ED&I and Ethics Equality and diversity is underpinned by legislation prohibiting discrimination in various forms. As well as understanding the key principles, we will consider the scope of ED&I from recruitment onwards and some of the practical steps an employer can take in its workplace. Salaries and income tax including National Insurance (NI) A brief introduction to the UK tax system for employees. In this module we will look at what an employer is required to pay to and for an employee to identify the true cost of employment. There is a range of alternative ways to reward employees which may affect taxation. We will also look at the tax implications of alternatives to employment. H&S guidance and management An overview of a business’s health and safety duties. We will look at the areas an employer will need to consider when devising its own health & safety guidance. Contracts of employment We will consider the key components of an employment contract. What information must the employer provide to an employee, what additional clauses would be suitable, dealing with confidential information and post -termination obligations. Organising pensions An overview of the statutory auto- enrolment scheme for pensions provision. Who is covered by the rules, what does an employer have to tell its employees, and putting a scheme in place. Recruitment best practice The process of recruiting new team members is a commitment. As you are looking for the best person for the role it is important that process delivers the best candidates. This module looks at recruitment processes that follow best practice. This process begins with identifying the correct role. We will then consider how to attract suitable candidates, fair and effective shortlisting and interviews, and avoiding bias in selection. We will also look at making an offer and dealing with unsuccessful applications. Common mistakes with new joiners How a new recruit is handled at the beginning of their employment can leave a lasting impression on both sides, so it is important that these early stages are handled well. This module will look at an onboarding process to ensure the relationship gets off to the best start. It will also look at dealing with compliance and performance issues that may arise at the early stages of employment. SpeakersHoward Lewis-Nunn has over 25 years’ experience of helping clients with issues in the workplace so that they can focus on their business. He advises on all aspects of the employment relationship from recruitment and selection through managing employment relationships to their conclusion. One of the features he enjoys about his role is being able to get to know his client’s business so that he can work with them to achieve the best outcome. Howard has advised practices of various sizes across a range of areas including architects, law and accountancy. He has also been a partner of a law firm and so has first-hand experience of life in a busy professional practice. The relationship between employers and employees extends beyond ‘“pure’” employment law. As well as advising on procedures for dealing with staff, such as transfers, maternity leave, redundancy, disciplinary and grievances, Howard also advises on other aspects such as data protection, boardroom issues, partnerships, contract workers and employment status. As a barrister he is also able to deal with employment tribunal and court claims, if they reach this stage, advising on the suitable tactics and acting as advocate. His unique role and experience mean that he can handle matters from the very beginning and eliminate the need for hiring additional outside counsel. Please note Each on-demand video will expire 12 months after enrolling onto the module. This session was recorded from the live webinar on 24 October 2022 For more information on this course, or if there are no places available, please email us, or call +44 (0)20 7307 5355 to talk to a member of the team. Please view the Terms and Conditions for more information.