Universal Credit change gives £420 boost to over a million households – DWP
Liz Kendall said: “We’re delivering meaningful change to ensure everyone has a fair chance, the support they need, and real hope for the future.”
Latest
Skills England launched to address skills shortages and boost economic growth
New body, Skills England, aims to meet the skills needs of the next decade, tackling shortages and driving growth across the UK.
Delayed retirement likely for millions as UK pension savings gap widens
New research shows 38% of UK adults are not on track for even a minimum retirement lifestyle, with many expecting to work longer due to inadequate pension savings.
Over a third of private markets professionals admit to last-minute regulatory planning
This is according to a global study conducted among 400 C-suite executives and senior professionals in private markets, commissioned by CSC.
Chancellor promises ‘big bang on growth’ with pensions review
Under the plans unveiled by the Chancellor, billions of pounds of investment could be unlocked in the UK economy from defined contribution (DC) schemes alone.
Microsoft outage could have damaging effects for payroll
Following global issues with Microsoft today, Global Payroll Association warned that there may be knock-on effects for payroll services.
UK employment rate dips while pay growth remains strong, new data reveals
UK employment rate falls to 74.4% as unemployment rises to 4.4%, while pay growth remains strong with a 5.7% increase in average regular earnings.
Compensation & Benefits
Improved paternity leave could boost economy, says JRF
Increasing Statutory Paternity Leave from two weeks to six weeks at 90% of average weekly earnings could deliver a £2.68bn boost to the wider economy.
Annuities understanding rises by 25% among over-50s, misconceptions remain – Standard Life
Research revealed that the number of people correctly identifying that lifetime annuities provide a guaranteed income for life rose from 39% in 2023 to 49%.
Recruitment & HR
M&S orders staff to work from home following cyber attack
Jessica Bass, partner at Oury Clark Solicitors, said: "It is vital that M&S maintains clear and open communication with all employees during this time, so they understand what is happening and why these steps are necessary."
BT Group opens Manchester flagship office as part of ‘Better Workplace’ programme
Four New Bailey will house up to 2,000 staff and features advanced technology and a rooftop terrace.
Employment Rights Bill putting “brakes on hiring”, says BRC
The survey of HR Directors (HRDs) of leading retailers revealed the scale of concerns about the impact of the Employment Rights Bill, which will be debated in the House of Lords today.
UK tax vacancies up 14% as firms boost hiring in response to fiscal reforms
UK tax vacancies rose 14% year-on-year in Q1 2025, with regional hiring outpacing London and strong demand for corporate, indirect and cross-border tax skills.
Inclusivity, Equality & Diversity
Trustee boards lack youth and diversity, survey finds
The The Charity Commission and Pro Bono Economics survey found that there were slightly more black trustees under 60 (7%) than in the general population (5%).
IPA partners with Brixton Finishing School to widen access to advertising careers
Through the partnership, Brixton Finishing School will offer employability support and resources to schools and students that take part.
BBC to improve workplace culture as it publishes independent review
The report from Change Associates, found no evidence of a toxic culture, but it highlighted key areas for improvement.
Menopause Advisory Group formed to boost workplace support
Convened by the Government’s Menopause Employment Ambassador, Mariella Frostrup, the group discussed the impact menopause can have on workers and current efforts to support women in work.
Technology
One in five schools use AI despite lack of staff training, warns GMB
More than 84% of school workers said they have not received training on Digital and Technology Standards.
One in four workers worry that AI will lead to job losses – Acas
Acas commissioned YouGov to ask employees in Britain what their biggest concerns about the use of AI were.
Zellis receives two nominations at Global Payroll Awards 2025
The ceremony, scheduled for 5th June in Warsaw, Poland, aims to celebrate commitment to excellence and innovation in the payroll industry.
Health & Wellbeing
Failure to offer workplace flexibility risks long-term decline, says Aalto University study
New research from Aalto University shows companies that fail to adapt to employee needs risk burnout, higher turnover, and weakened organisational performance.
Growing demand for sabbaticals as UK workers seek relief from burnout, says Robert Half
New research from Robert Half reveals 42% of UK employees want sabbaticals in 2025, as concern about burnout and workload pressures rises.
Caring duties leave nearly half of over 60s without pension savings – Phoenix Insights
Research revealed that among those with pension savings, carers had 17% less than the UK average, meaning a shortfall of about £37,000.
APN launches annual World Health & Safety week
The initiative is supported by the UK's eight major pallet networks, with teams at each network hub focusing on safety best practice and employee well-being.
Employee Relations
Birmingham Council cuts bin drivers pay by £8,000
Unite has said the council’s decision shows an escalation in the dispute and the council's real plans to use workers' pay as a way to cut costs.
Over a third of female SME owners face gender bias – AXA UK
Research revealed that 53% of the female SME owners surveyed said they felt pressure to prove themselves more than male business owners.
Violence against ambulance staff hits record high, as AACE urges Government action
For the first time, annual reported incidents of violence, aggression, and abuse against ambulance personnel surged past 22,500, marking a nearly 15% increase on the previous year.
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.
Global HR
UK lags in workplace productivity ranking, finds Ricoh Europe
The UK ranked lowest for workplace productivity, with UK workers lagging 11% behind leaders Spain.
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.
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.
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.