Tag: Dentons
Pension obligations for part-time staff
In an industry where working hours often vary for staff on flexible employment arrangements, the advent of pension auto enrolment has left many retail businesses unsure as to who has to be included in the company scheme. Mark Hamilton of Dentons offers practical advice
A fine line between banter and bullying
‘It was only banter’ is an often-used excuse. Mark Hamilton, a partner at Dentons, looks at a recent employment tribunal case showing that, surprisingly, this defence can work. However, while staff may enjoy friendly jokes on shift, managers still have to know where to draw the line
Overwhelmed by overtime? Don’t be
With the busy Christmas period upon us, many retailers will once again be relying on staff working overtime to make the most of the increased footfall. Claire McKee, an associate in the employment team at Dentons, looks at the impact of overtime and other incentives on the season’s holiday pay
Make sure you let staff take a break
Mark Hamilton, a partner at Dentons, looks at the law regarding rest breaks
Retailers be aware of the right to care
Employees who need time off to look after children or older relatives can be hard to accommodate in the busy retail sector. However, there are certain minimum allowances that must be made by law. Dentons partner Mark Hamilton explains employee rights when it comes to caring for dependants
Misconduct can be a tricky dismissal
When an employee’s bad behaviour goes too far and becomes a problem for the business, managers and owners tend to feel justified in dismissing for misconduct. However, even straightforward cases can lead to a tribunal .
Unpaid trial periods risk breach of rules
The use of unpaid workers during trial periods and training has gained national attention – what is the legal status of these work periods?
Gender pay law must be taken seriously
The risk of reputational damage means retailers have to take the exercise seriously.
#MeToo highlights in-work harassment
With harassment firmly in the public eye and staff empowered to complain, it is important for retailers to have solid policies to create a safe work environment in their stores.
