Dear Visitor,

Do you pay your staff well?

And if you do, do they recognise that? In this issue we talk about the benefits of salary benchmarking and how it could work for you.

We also remind you of the changes to the minimum wage that became effective at the beginning of this month.

And finally we finish off with some reminders of further employment changes.

Until next time, look after your people.

Best wishes
Laura Davis and the team at HR Solutions

 Minimum Wage changes

A quick reminder that with effect from 1 October 2011 the following minimum wage rates apply:

• Adult rate (21 years and over) is now £6.08
• Rate for workers aged 18 to 20 is £4.98
• Rate for young workers aged 16 to 17 is £3.68
  

 Do you pay your staff well?

Some of our clients like to benchmark themselves against similar employers either in their industry sector or in their local area. They do this to ensure they are paying fairly against the competition and, often, to ensure they are likely to continue to attract a high quality calibre of employee. Do you know how you stack up against employers in your area? Maybe you'd like to know what salaries are being paid in other businesses for a specific department in your organisation for example accounts or production.

We have also found this works well in instances where key employees are seeking to leave for a higher salary. You can be confident in your negotiations with a member of staff knowing you are paying a comparable rate, or alternatively, you may use the information to make an informed decision on a pay rise.

But it isn't all about the salary. You can use this very effective tool to compare additional benefits such as bonus, company car, holiday allowance and medical cover too.

The report takes into consideration the length of time an individual has been doing a role, their experience and qualifications. You can choose whether to compare them against the competitors in your industry, or other employers in your local area.

You can even use the report to plan your budgets for the next year.

If you'd like to learn more about salary benchmarking please contact us on 01256 328428.

Unfair Dismissal changes

With effect from 1 April 2012 an employee will need to have been employed for two years before they can claim for unfair dismissal.

However, this does not apply to claims for discrimination which can be raised from day one of employment. This also applies to other claims.

If you are unclear on the impact of these changes on your business please call us on 01256 328428.

Introduction of tribunal fees

From April 2013 fees will be charged for individuals wishing to lodge a tribunal claim. It is thought that the initial charge will be between £150 and £250 for lodging the claim, with a further fee of £1000 if it proceeds to a hearing. Charges are yet to be confirmed.

This is part of the Government initiative to reduce the burden on small businesses, and discourage employees from making a claim. Interestingly more than 80% of tribunal claims do not proceed to a hearing, but of course, that does not stop businesses incurring the costs of preparing a defence, and the time spent by staff.

If the risk of an employment tribunal is still a big worry for you call us on 01256 328428.