63% of UK businesses are unaware of new HR rules introduced at the beginning of April

LONDON - April 24, 2014 - PRLog -- Amazingly 63% of UK businesses are unaware that new employment legislation was introduced at the beginning of April according to the employment law firm Peninsula Business Services. Director of Peninsula Alan Price explained what the changes are and how they affect businesses.

Firstly if employers are not aware of the changes then they need to get themselves familiarised now”, said Mr Price.

“6th April was a busy day for employment law some of the key developments and how they affect businesses are.”

“Financial penalties will be introduced for employers who are found to have breached employment legislation where there are aggravating features present. The penalty will be payable to the Exchequer, in addition to the award and the fee reimbursement to the claimant. A minimum of £100 and a maximum of £5000 will be payable, and these will be applied to tribunal decisions for claims that are brought on or after 6th April 2014.”

Alan Price continues,

“The rate for Statutory Sick Pay increases to £87.55; Statutory Maternity Pay/Adoption Pay/Paternity Pay will increase to £138.18.

The maximum unfair dismissal compensatory award increases to £76,574 (subject to cap of 52 weeks’ pay).

Statutory guarantee pay increases to £25 per day.

The maximum week’s pay for statutory redundancy pay purposes will increase to £464.

The Early Conciliation system will be implemented, meaning that prospective claimants must inform Acas of their intention to claim so that Acas can attempt to conciliate. Claims will no longer be sent directly to the tribunal service.

The statutory discrimination questionnaire will be repealed and replaced with a more informal approach for employees who would like to pose questions to their employer about alleged discrimination.”

Alan Price concludes, “It is very important that businesses familiarise themselves with the changes in legislation, otherwise they could fall foul at employment tribunal, ignorance is no defence when faced with a litigation claim.”

Notes to editor:

- Alan Price is director of the employment law firm Peninsula Business Services

- Peninsula Business Services is based in Manchester UK

- Peninsula Business Services spoke to 378 small businesses from 10th April to the 24th April inclusive by telephone.

- Contact Sammual-James McLoughlin for further clarification on 0161 827 8511.