Lords to examine new rules for Employment Rights Bill
Three committee sessions are scheduled for 29th April, 8th May, and 13th April, though these dates may be subject to change.
Latest
More UK jobs expected as Defence Committee holds first session
The call came as the Parliamentary Defence Committee held its first evidence session of the new Parliament.
Assaults on prison staff up 30% over the past year – Community
New data from the Ministry of Justice shows that the number of assaults on prison staff has risen again over the last year.
Unite launches judicial review process over Winter Fuel Payment cut
Unite said the Government's actions would affect millions of older people, and likely cause an increase in cold related deaths.
71% of employees stay for at least five years just for a raise – GPA
The majority 91% of employees have received a pay increase during their time at their current company.
BTC launches inquiry into Employment Rights Bill
The BTC described the bill as “the biggest upgrade to workers’ rights in a generation.”
Autumn Budget 2024: Tax the rich to fill black hole and boost public services – Unite
Unite pledged to lead the challenge for the reversal of the winter fuel payment cut.
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
Government urged to introduce Workplace Justice Visa amid growing reports of migrant worker exploitation
The report by WoRC, entitled 'Safeguarding Sponsored Workers: A UK Workplace Justice Visa', outlined urgent reforms based on a six-country comparative study.
NHS staff fatigue a hidden risk to patient safety, HSSIB warns
The investigation found that the impact of staff fatigue on both patient safety and workforce wellbeing is not being addressed within current NHS systems.
Glen Callum Associates launches ‘Our Aftermarket’ to highlight career opportunities
The campaign features a series of interviews with senior industry leaders Nigel Duffield (PHINIA Delphi), Steve Jarnet (Corteco UK) and Neil Grant (HELLA UK).
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.”
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
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.
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%.
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
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.
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.