Have you heard the latest news?

Welcome to HR Heartbeat, where we give you a rundown of the week's top employment law stories. Stay on the pulse of current trends impacting your business, plus get up-to-the-minute commentaries on all things HR and legal.

So, let’s check out this week’s headlines…

HR preparations for the end of the financial year

It’s nearly the end of the financial year, which means—you’ve guessed it, staff appraisals!

Employers should make sure they have trained HR staff and employees in management positions to hold these talks effectively and objectively. Regular progress-based appraisals have lots of performance-boosting benefits for your staff and can improve the overall success of your business.

Plus, developing clear appraisal guidelines will make sure you’re treating all employees fairly and consistently and help you avoid any negative backlash from staff. Find out how to carry out effective employee appraisals here.

Vento bands are set to rise this April

In employment tribunals, the amount of compensation owed is sometimes judged using categories called ‘Vento bands’. These measure the amount of injury caused to the employee’s feelings in discrimination cases and decide the kind of claim they can make.

• The lowest band is currently £1,100.
• The middle band is currently £11,200.
• And the upper band is currently £33,700.
  

How they decide which category the employee falls into—and the resulting financial claim— usually depends on the seriousness and length of discrimination faced by the employee.

And here’s an important date for your diaries! From the 6th of April 2023, these rates are rising. So, stay ahead of the change and get instant answers, as and when you need them. Just ask BrightHR Lightning: What are the Vento bands changing to in April 2023?

Statutory rate increases (key dates for your diary)

Here’s your reminder that the National Minimum Wage will increase this Saturday, the 1st of April. Family-friendly rates like maternity, paternity, and adoption will increase on Sunday, the 2nd of April. All other rates including redundancy, sick pay, and guarantee pay will increase next Thursday, the 6th of April.

You’ll need to start paying the higher rate starting from your first pay reference period after the 1st of April. So, make sure you adjust your employee’s pay where necessary and get the right payroll advice in time for a smooth-running payday!

Recognising Trans Day of Visibility

This Friday, 31st of March, is Trans Day of Visibility.

Employers should strive to understand and improve internal awareness about the equality and inclusivity of trans employees. Training sessions, discussion groups, and offering the right wellbeing and support can all help to boost the mental health of your staff and avoid disputes.

And that’s a wrap. Tune in next week for more headlines and make sure you stay ahead of major employment law changes!