'New normal ' legal documents launched for employers

A 'New Normal Bundle ' of templated legal documents has been launched by the HR Advice Hub to help businesses to prepare for the new normal way of working after Covid-19.

The HR Advice Hub is a Birmingham-based consultancy providing services and solutions on a wide range of workplace issues both on a fixed fee retainer and a “pay as you go ” basis to SMEs.

HR consultancy manager Kiran Najran (pictured), who heads the HR Advice Hub, said: “As we navigate our way through the remaining lockdown easing measures, employers are considering the new way of working.

“This ranges from employees continuing to work from remote locations, to a hybrid-style approach where work is split between working in the office and from a remote location, or managing the supply and demand of work.

“It is important for employers to respond to the ever-changing dynamics of the workplace, and to enable businesses to prepare for this new way of working, we are pleased to introduce our 'New Normal Bundle ' template of documents. ”

The 'New Normal Bundle ' includes:

• Hybrid Policy. Ideal for employers moving towards a more flexible way of working that enables employees to split their time between working from a remote location and attending the workplace.
• Homeworking Policy. To suit employers who wish to continue to providing their employees with the flexibility of working from home once restrictions are lifted.
• Flexible Working Policy. Eligible employees have a statutory right to request changes to their working patterns, and this policy provides structure for the process dealing with such requests.
• Health and Safety Policy. As some employers look to adapt their working models, this policy ensures employees are aware of the health and safety provisions while working from home and in the office. It also mitigates the risk to employers for employer liability claims.
• Lay off and Short Time Working Policy. This policy would be beneficial for employers who may experience reduced needs for a workforce due to, for example, seasonal work or economic downturns.
• Casual Worker Contracts. This type of contract would suit a business providing seasonal work, where there is no obligation to provide or accept work. They are also colloquially referred to as “zero hour ” contracts.
• Fixed Term Contracts. These contracts give employers flexibility, for example, where demand is uncertain, work is seasonal or project-based or dependent upon external funding.

Prices for the “New Normal Bundle ” start from as little as £50 plus VAT for an individual policy or £375 plus VAT for the full suite of documents.

There is a 5 per cent discount for members of Birmingham Chamber of Commerce.

To find out more, please email [email protected] or call 07842 312 367.