HR Heartbeat: hidden cameras, HR data breaches and wellbeing for employers

Welcome to HR Heartbeat, where we take a look at the week’s most pressing HR and employment law stories. With over 18 years’ experience in employee relations, I give my opinion on current trends impacting your business, as well as my own personal commentary on all things HR and legal.

Airline staff stole an estimated £170k worth of goods

Ten aircraft cleaners have been caught on hidden cameras stealing alcohol, cigarettes and perfume from Aer Lingus planes at Manchester Airport. After the airline installed covert cameras to investigate stock losses, the cleaners were recorded forcing open storage containers and taking the contents. Between 29 July and 4 August 2023, £1,120 worth of goods were stolen, with the airline estimating total losses over a longer period to be around £174,000.

You should always take advice before installing covert equipment, even if you suspect an employee of internal theft, malpractice, or other criminal activity. If you are unsure of your rights and obligations, you can access 24/7 employment law advice with BrightAdvice. Find expertly written policies and templates on BrightBase, so you can meet your legal obligations with up-to-date documentation.

80% of data breaches involve HR files

According to a recent survey, HR data like payroll information and CVs appeared in 82% of cyber breaches. Employee information is a particular target for cyber criminals, leaving employees vulnerable to identity theft, fraud, deepfake content, and phishing scams.

HR data is particularly sensitive, as it contains personal and financial information. But there are ways to secure your data. Think about moving away from spreadsheets and physical storage by adopting HR software. Our cloud-based unlimited document storage keeps your information secure, and you can access it from anywhere.

There may be legal consequences if your employee has their identity stolen. To protect yourself and your employees, consider cyber-security training to protect your teams and your data. BrightLearn, our extensive e-learning library contains courses on cyber security best practice, passwords and account security, and GDPR. It’s free, and it’s available on-the-go so your employees can keep themselves up to date wherever they are.

1 in 7 SME owners and managers report mental health issues

New research has revealed that 1 in 7 UK SME owners and managers have experienced mental health issues in the last 12 months.

Employers have a duty of care to safeguard the wellbeing of their employees. But when they’re struggling, where do they turn?

Although 69% of employers surveyed have an Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) in place, only 5% of those who experienced mental health issues over the last 12 months sought support from it.

Find out more about our EAP, which offers confidential wellbeing support 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

And that’s a wrap from me. Tune in next time for my take on the latest headlines and employment law stories, helping keep your business ahead!