As 2010 gets into full swing, there is set to be a substantial review of the UK’s employment law regulations over the next 12 months. Further to last week’s article, Southampton solicitors Trethowans bring you another five changes to employment law expected to be made by the Government in the coming year: 1. Independent Safeguarding Authority From November, new workers who wish to work with children or vulnerable adults will need to register with the Independent Safeguarding Authority (ISA), who will work in partnership with the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) to prevent unsuitable people from working in such environments. 2. Renewed Union Rights Regarding “Blacklisting” The Government has outlined a number of proposals making it illegal for a company to sack, or refuse employment to a worker based on appearing on a “blacklist” due to their union memberships. The proposals also allow workers or their unions to pursue legal action against those who use, compile or distribute blacklists. The regulations will come into effect in the spring, pending approval by Parliament. 3. Sick Notes to be Replaced With “Fit Notes” Under the Social Security and Statutory Sick Pay Amendment Regulations, doctors can state whether an individual is able to fully carry out their work, some work, or no work at all. The law, when introduced in April, will also allow doctors to state whether an employee could return to work under altered circumstances, such as reduced hours, amended duties, or adaptations to their working environment. 4. Reduction in Unfair Dismissal Compensation The overall compensation award for dismissals on or after 1st Feburary will fall from £66,200 to £65,300, while the daily compensation award limit will fall from £21.50 to £21.20 5. Time to Train Initiative This new scheme gives employees the legal right to request time off for training, under the Apprenticeships, Skills, Children and Learning Act. However, employers are within their rights to refuse requests if it can be proven that the employee taking the time off would be detrimental to the business. It will become law for businesses with more than 250 employees in April, with the scheme being extended to cover all businesses 12 months later. For more information about Trethowans and the services they offer, call 0845 302 4695, or visit the Trethowans website at http://www.trethowans.com/. ------------------- Company Description Trethowans LLP has over 130 people, based in our offices in Salisbury and Southampton. We advise both individuals and businesses, including international groups, national chains, household brand names, major regional businesses, owner-managers, entrepreneurs and SME businesses. Five of our six teams that advise business clients are highly rated by the two independent guides to the legal profession, Chambers Guide to the Legal Profession and the Legal 500. http://www.trethowans.com/ ------------------- Hit Search Contact Press release produced and promoted Hit Search. Find out more about us and our services at http://www.hitsearchlimited.com/. Tel: 0845 643 9289 -------------------- Unique reference HSLP0101AA83
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