Forrest Insights

Is Your Business Ready? New sexual harassment duties are coming. With more employment legislation changes coming, there is a lot for employers to keep on top of, and we know it can feel like a lot to manage. One important change coming into force on 30 October 2026 is the strengthened duty on employers to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace, this is an increased responsibility from the current duty. Employers are also required to protect th

Performance Reviews How often should you hold performance reviews? For many businesses, the traditional annual appraisal is no longer enough. Annual reviews provide a useful opportunity to reflect on performance and discuss longer-term development. However, more regular conversations can help managers address challenges earlier, recognise progress and keep employees focused on their goals. A practical approach could include: • An annual formal review • A six-month progress re

New UK Minimum Wage New UK Minimum Wage rates are now in effect. From 1 April 2026, the latest increases to the UK minimum wage came into force. A quick recap: • National Living Wage (21+) – £12.71 (was £12.21) • 18–20 year olds – £10.85 (was £10.00) • 16–17 year olds – £8.00 (was £7.55) • Apprentice rate – £8.00 (was £7.55) By now (end of April), businesses should have: ✔ Updated their pay rates ✔ Processed at least one payroll using the new figures If not, this needs to be

Are You Prepared? From April this year, changes to the Employment Rights Act mean that Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) will be payable from day one of sickness, rather than after the current three waiting days where payment begins on day four. This change could impact how businesses manage sickness absence and their associated policies. To prepare for these changes, businesses should take the following action: • Review and update sick pay policies • Review and update absence managem

Having effective HR in place is essential — not something to be put off. Ensuring your HR processes are established and working efficiently from the outset provides a strong foundation for your business to grow with confidence.

Having effective HR in place is essential — not something to be put off. Ensuring your HR processes are established and working efficiently from the outset provides a strong foundation for your business to grow with confidence.

Following on from the June newsletter, the government has announced the dates for the upcoming changes in employment law.

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