UK could unlock £400bn in economic growth through workplace AI adoption, says Google
The AI Works report revealed the UK’s current lag in AI usage at work, despite soaring public interest.
Latest
Hospitality sector sees 16.9% rise in revenue-based finance applications in 2024
Data from 365 Finance revealed that approved advances to the hospitality sector rose by 20.6% last year compared to the previous year.
Large multi-academy trusts have lowest teacher retention rates, finds NEU
Data showed that one in five teachers left their jobs in the last academic year, with more than one in nine leaving the profession entirely.
Disability managers critical to dismantling ableism in workplaces, finds new study
New research from emlyon business school reveals that disability managers play a vital role in addressing workplace ableism, particularly where disability laws are only partially enforced.
Birmingham bin workers reject pay cut deal from council
Sharon Graham said: "It is important to remember that this dispute is not about a pay rise it is about preventing serious pay cuts."
Automotive aftermarket recruiter reveals what job seekers should expect
Glen Callum Associates has created a checklist for candidates to help them navigate the recruitment process.
Labour market pressures bearing down on firms, warns BCC
Jane Gratton, deputy director of public policy at the BCC, highlighted that the labour market remains a major source of strain for companies across the country.
Compensation & Benefits
Unite deal secures two-year pay rise for East Midlands Airport refuellers
Under the agreement, the workers will receive a 6.5% pay increase in the first year and a further 3.5% uplift in the second year.
Median pay award holds firm at 3% in Q1, finds Brightmine
Despite the recent increase in National Insurance (NI) contributions, Brightmine data indicated that a sharp drop in pay awards is unlikely in the near term.
Recruitment & HR
Bakkavor creates 60 jobs at Tilmanstone Salads site
Raj Singh said: “Anyone looking for a new challenge, do get in touch and be part of one of the region’s fastest growing and most successful teams.”
Zellis launches external ‘Unstoppable’ campaign
The campaign highlights the role of HR professionals in keeping businesses running amid complex legislation, administrative pressures and recruitment challenges.
London Stansted reveals range of lesser-known airport jobs ahead of recruitment push
Roles include airside operations officer, airport firefighter, security trainer, terminal duty managers and engineering technician.
Language skills now critical to workforce access as EU migration rises 63%
Research from Preply revealed that a growing number of EU nations require applicants to demonstrate formal language proficiency as part of their residency and integration policies.
Inclusivity, Equality & Diversity
Manningham Housing Association retains global diversity standard
John Mulholland said: “Manningham Housing Association is a good place to work and a good example for diversity in the workplace."
Usdaw appoints Joanne Thomas as first female general secretary
Thomas was elected unopposed and will replace current general secretary Paddy Lillis upon his retirement on 25th July 2025.
CSP calls for the protection of linguistic rights for multilingual workers
CSP has also called for the recognition of multilingual skills in job evaluations and skills frameworks.
Public support remains strong for workplace DEI initiatives, finds Ipsos
However, the research also highlighted a clear gender divide in general attitudes to promoting DEI.
Technology
Majority of UK employees want ethical AI training as usage grows – Photoroom
Research revealed that 18% of workers said knowing how to use AI properly would improve their company’s performance.
UK small businesses lead Europe in AI use, research reveals
Research by IONOS showed UK small businesses had the highest AI use at 37% compared to Germany at 32% and France at 26%.
Aberdeen International Airport launches AI assistant to aid passengers and staff
The digital assistant is intended to cut down the number of routine questions staff receive, letting teams deal with urgent and complex tasks.
Health & Wellbeing
North Somerset Council urges employers to book free workplace heart health checks
Nearly 1,000 checks have already been completed with more booked in, but spaces remain for workplaces to take part.
Burnout on the rise for Gen Z workers, as two thirds confess to not switching off from work
Click Offices analysed data from across the UK to see the impact of burnout on the workforce.
Bridge Health & Wellbeing shortlisted in Christchurch Business Awards 2025
The awards ceremony will take place on 8th May at Iford Golf Centre.
Swadlincote Veterinary Centre awarded gold accreditation through BVA scheme
Dr. Elizabeth Mullineaux said: "We hope this first Gold accreditation inspires others to strive towards gaining recognition as workplaces where vet teams thrive.”
Employee Relations
Bury Council launches community drive to safeguard young workers
The campaign is aimed at ensuring every child in work is protected and all employers are aware of their responsibilities.
England and Wales councils lose nearly 600,000 workers since 2012 – GMB
Kevin Brandstatter said: “These figures are clearly appalling and show the deep and lasting damage austerity has done to our country."
Stagecoach bus services across west of Scotland to stop in May as pay dispute escalates
Strike action will now take place over a series of days including the 2nd, 6th, 9th, 12th, 16th, 19th, and 23rd of May.
Ealing traffic wardens protest in Westminster over lack MP support
Sharon Graham said: “It is time they stepped up and supported these workers. Unite will not stop until the union-busting at Greener Ealing ends."
Global HR
Remote work drives innovation in flexible cultures, Durham study finds
Remote work boosts innovation in egalitarian, flexible cultures, new Durham University study shows.
Gallup warns declining manager engagement could threaten global productivity
A drop in engagement among managers has driven a global decline in employee engagement, according to Gallup’s latest workplace study, with Europe showing the lowest regional engagement at just 13%.
Employers rank reskilling as top HR challenge for 2025
The research, which surveyed 5,625 HR professionals and 16,000 employees across 16 countries, highlighted a shift in priorities amid a tightening labour market.
IWG and Jabbrrbox partner to deploy 3,750 smart work pods globally
IWG and Jabbrrbox will roll out thousands of high-tech privacy pods in public and corporate spaces to support hybrid working and employee productivity.