Category: Holiday

Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027 – when are the Bank Holidays and what about paying early?

For the third year running, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day don’t fall on weekends, however, Boxing Day is a Saturday and so the following Monday becomes a substitute day. And for Scotland the extended New Year celebrations which normally include the 2nd January which for 2027 is also a Saturday creating a substitute Bank … Continue reading Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027 – when are the Bank Holidays and what about paying early? →

New action to crackdown on bogus self-employment loopholes

Over 900,000 people could benefit from new plans which include measures to crack down on bogus self-employment. More workers to gain access to the National Minimum Wage and holiday pay. Proposals will also make it easier for 900,000 people to access rights they should already be entitled to and improve the rights of the genuinely … Continue reading New action to crackdown on bogus self-employment loopholes →

Fair Work Agency delivery plan

The Fair Work Agency’s first delivery plan outlines priorities, actions and measures for 2026 to 2027. It explains how the agency will support workers and employers, tackle labour exploitation and prepare for the transfer of National Minimum Wage enforcement. The plan also outlines how the agency will develop digital tools to make complying with employment … Continue reading Fair Work Agency delivery plan →

Summer holiday savings – free buses for kids

The Summer Bus Fare Offer is part of the government's Great British Summer Savings scheme. starting Saturday 1st August 2026, under 16s can travel on local buses for free during August 2926 to help tackle the cost-of-living  this announcement builds on the £2 bus fare cap which will save millions of people up to a third … Continue reading Summer holiday savings – free buses for kids →

Holiday Pay enforcement consultation open

Make Work Pay: holiday pay compliance and enforcement The government has opened a consultation on: the proposed approach to holiday pay compliance and enforcement some of the important design features what support and guidance the Fair Work Agency can provide to help support compliance Right to holiday leave and pay Paid holiday or annual leave … Continue reading Holiday Pay enforcement consultation open →

Great British Summer Savings: Tax cut on kids’ meals and days out goes live

Every family across the UK will pay less tax on meals and days out as new VAT cut helps families enjoy trips to the seaside and making memories with loved ones. “I cannot think of a simpler and more accessible way to bring some affordable treats into family life this summer” – more businesses back … Continue reading Great British Summer Savings: Tax cut on kids’ meals and days out goes live →

Supporting families and businesses with the Cost of Living.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves on 21st May 2026 updated the House of Commons on the Government's economic response to the war in Iran, and the action they are taking to support families and businesses with the Cost of Living. With permission, Madam Deputy Speaker, I will make a statement on the Government’s economic response to the war … Continue reading Supporting families and businesses with the Cost of Living. →

5.4 million workers have employment rights breached

The final independent report of Director of Labour Market Enforcement (DLME) commissioned assessment on the scale and nature of labour non-compliance and other work-based harms in the UK has been published with some shocking results. The report was to question: How many workers have their rights breached in the UK labour market? What issues do … Continue reading 5.4 million workers have employment rights breached →

Happy New (Tax) Year 2026

Here it is again, the start of a New Tax Year. Often when meeting with payroll and tax professionals from overseas, they wonder why the United Kingdom tax year commences on 6th April annually.  Why is that when so many countries around the world celebrate both the new year and the tax year on 1st … Continue reading Happy New (Tax) Year 2026 →

Employers required to keep holiday records

Holiday pay clampdown is on its way with new employer recording obligations and Holiday Pay compliance being introduced alongside the Fair Work Agency enforcement duties. Holiday entitlement and pay rights All employees and workers across the United Kingdom have rights to holiday entitlements and pay. Statistical analysis has shown that in excess of 1.8 million … Continue reading Employers required to keep holiday records →

Save on Easter childcare egg-spenses with Tax-Free Childcare

Families encouraged to use Tax-Free Childcare to save thousands on their childcare bills. Working families encouraged to cut the cost of Easter childcare by signing up to Tax-Free Childcare Latest figures show 542,700 families saved on their childcare bills in December 2025 More than £46 million in government cash helped with childcare costs for almost … Continue reading Save on Easter childcare egg-spenses with Tax-Free Childcare →

Baroness Maggie Jones appointed new chair of Acas

Baroness Maggie Jones of Whitchurch has been appointed as the new Chair of Acas. Baroness Maggie Jones of Whitchurch has been appointed as the new Chair of Acas, following a fair and open public appointment process. She will start on the 1st April 2026, succeeding Clare Chapman, whose two terms as Chair ends on 31st March … Continue reading Baroness Maggie Jones appointed new chair of Acas →

New Employment Rights – February and April 2026

From 18th February 2026, upgraded employment rights will begin to take effect. These changes will be introduced gradually between 2026 and 2027, giving employers time to prepare and ensuring workers have clear information about their new rights. The Department for Business and Trade (DBT) have created resources for employees and employers on these changes (click … Continue reading New Employment Rights – February and April 2026 →

Employment Rights Act receives Royal Assent

Over 15 million people across the UK are expected to benefit as New laws bring the world of work into the 21st century Over  15 million people across the UK are to benefit from new worker protections, including those on the lowest pay and in the most insecure jobs.   New rights confirmed including day one paternity leave and parental leave, statutory sick pay, protections for pregnant workers, increased protection from unfair … Continue reading Employment Rights Act receives Royal Assent →

UK to enforce ETA scheme Feb 2026

From February 2026, visitors will not be able to travel to the UK without advance permission. Visitors from 85 nationalities, including the United States, Canada, and France, who do not need a visa will not be able to legally travel to the UK without an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) from 25th February 2026. This is … Continue reading UK to enforce ETA scheme Feb 2026 →

FWA chair appointed to crack down on minimum wage underpayment and worker exploitation

Matthew Taylor to lead Government's new Fair Work Agency from April 2026. Taylor Review author Matthew Taylor appointed as first Fair Work Agency chair to support the government’s mission to kickstart economic growth. New agency to transform labour market enforcement, protecting workers from bad employers who flout minimum wage and other labour laws, levelling the … Continue reading FWA chair appointed to crack down on minimum wage underpayment and worker exploitation →

Preparing British travellers for EU border changes

UK government launches campaign to raise awareness of EU’s Entry/Exit System. British travellers and holiday,Akers are being advised to prepare for incoming EU border checks. Messages advising the British public about the introduction of new Entry/Exit System (EES) checks at the EU border will be shared across government social media channels, by transport operators and … Continue reading Preparing British travellers for EU border changes →

Christmas 2025 and New Year 2026 – when are the Bank Holidays and what about paying early?

For the third year running, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day don’t fall on weekends and there are no substitute days. However, Scotland has a substitute day for St Andrews. England and Wales So when are the Christmas and New Year Bank holidays? For England Wales and Northern Ireland matches: Scotland In Scotland there are … Continue reading Christmas 2025 and New Year 2026 – when are the Bank Holidays and what about paying early? →

Isle of Man and UK tax avoidance crackdown

Isle of Man Treasury Minister Dr Alex Allinson MHK held a virtual meeting Tuesday 27th May 2026 with the UK Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury James Murray MP.  James Murray MP Following the meeting, they issued this joint statement:  'The UK and the Isle of Man have a long-standing history of collaboration in the fight … Continue reading Isle of Man and UK tax avoidance crackdown →

Thompsons Lecture: Employment law and the fundamental right to security

The RT Hon Lord Hermer KVC On Thursday 8th May 2025, the Attorney General Lord Hermer KC delivered the Thompson Foundation Lecture on “Employment law and the fundamental right to security” Introduction Thank you very much for this opportunity to celebrate the remarkable legacy of Thompsons Solicitors, a firm that has been a beacon of … Continue reading Thompsons Lecture: Employment law and the fundamental right to security →

Payroll dates – what affects what?

PAYadvice.UK sees a number of social posts and questions around the effective payroll dates when crossing from the 2024/2025 tax year into the new 2025/2026 tax year. Most recently have related to poor business planning by some employers on the impacts of National Insurance increases relating to work undertaken in March 2025 or earlier which … Continue reading Payroll dates – what affects what? →

Am I entitled to pay for Overtime?

On social media groups relating to employment law and others on pay, often there are questions on individual rights to paid overtime. This short article looks to outline the basics of the employees rights, whether the additional time should be paid or not and how the additional work time impacts employment rights under the Working … Continue reading Am I entitled to pay for Overtime? →

Over 100,000 Baby Loss Certificates issued 

More than 100,000 baby loss certificates have now been issued to parents who have lost a pregnancy, allowing them to formally recognise their loss. Thousands more parents have benefited from the scheme since it was extended in October 2024 Over 100,000 certificates have now been issued, helping parents formally recognise the loss of baby during … Continue reading Over 100,000 Baby Loss Certificates issued  →

Holidays and Easter 2025

With the Easter Break coming upon us soon, some workers and employees may be wodnering what their rights are to time off work and to pay. The employment rights part is covered by an PAYadvice.UK article which provides insightful information on the topic of whether workers have a right to bank holiday as paid leave. … Continue reading Holidays and Easter 2025 →

Spring Statement 2025 – Any payroll impact?

The Chancellor of the Exchequer delivered the 2025 Spring Statement in the House of Commons on Wednesday 26th March 2025.  The statement updates Parliament and the nation on the economy, public finances and progress against the Government’s economic objectives, and is accompanied by publication of an Economic and Fiscal Forecast from the Office for Budget Responsibility … Continue reading Spring Statement 2025 – Any payroll impact? →

Passport fee change 10th April 2025

new fees for passport applications on 10th April 2025 The Home Office and HM Passports have proposed increases to passport fees (subject to parliamentary approval), will include the following: the fee for a standard online application made from within the UK will rise from £88.50 to £94.50 for adults and £57.50 to £61.50 for children … Continue reading Passport fee change 10th April 2025 →

Pre-travel ETA applications for non-Europeans opens

Non-Europeans can now apply in advance for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) and will need one to travel to the UK from January 2025. The UK is introducing the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for millions of visitors who pass through the UK border every year, including six million from the USA, Canada, and Australia. From … Continue reading Pre-travel ETA applications for non-Europeans opens →

GPA – UK payroll – I’m dreaming of an alright Christmas

PAYadvice author Simon Parsons is a contributor to the GPA magazine 04:05 Global Payroll, in this months edition he covers subjects relating to the Christmas holiday season. So from why the UK New years is not the same as the tax year. And a number of seasonal topics for this Christmas and other holiday season festivities … Continue reading GPA – UK payroll – I’m dreaming of an alright Christmas →

UK to expand digital travel to more visitors

By April 2025, all visitors who do not need a visa will need an electronic travel authorisation (ETA) to travel to the UK. The UK government is taking major steps towards delivering its ambitious aim to digitise the UK border and immigration system and has set out new implementation dates for the electronic travel authorisation … Continue reading UK to expand digital travel to more visitors →

Fair Work Agency – who, what, why and when

As part of the new Employment Rights bill, the government are progressing with the formation of the FWA (Fair Work Agency) How are employment rights enforced now? For workers to enforce their employment rights, these are generally enforced by individuals submitting a claim to an employmenttribunal. A small number of rights are enforced by the … Continue reading Fair Work Agency – who, what, why and when →

Employment rights reforms revealed

The Labour government has unveiled the Employment Rights Bill in their effort to help deliver economic security and growth to businesses, workers and communities across the UK. Legislation introduced in Parliament to upgrade workers’ rights across the UK, tackle poor working conditions and benefit businesses and workers alike  Ahead of International Investment Summit, the government … Continue reading Employment rights reforms revealed →

Over 1.1 million employees denied their holiday pay rights

New analysis shows more than a million employees didn’t get any of the paid holiday they were entitled to last year – with BME employees hardest hitTUC Union body says failures on labour market enforcement have allowed bad bosses to exploit staff   TUC launches its “five-point plan for enforcement” as new polling shows “huge … Continue reading Over 1.1 million employees denied their holiday pay rights →

Minimum wage and the Payroll Savings scheme dilemma!

Lees of Scotland are another retailer caught out by the complex National Minimum Wage regulations and their efforts to help employees via a salary deduction savings scheme which they operated for over 30 years. Well known for their manufacture of teacakes, snowballs and macaroons, Lees operated a savings scheme where its workers voluntarily paid contributions … Continue reading Minimum wage and the Payroll Savings scheme dilemma! →

Young Brits warned of dangers of modern slavery abroad

Young people travelling to popular holiday destinations to work in bars and clubs have been given advice on the dangers of labour exploitation. Thousands of young people travelling to popular holiday destinations including Ibiza, Majorca and Menorca to work in bars and clubs have been given advice on the dangers of labour exploitation. Border Force … Continue reading Young Brits warned of dangers of modern slavery abroad →

Sunday – work and pay

This article looks at the different aspects of Sunday working and Sunday pay. What rules apply to working on Sunday? Having to work on a Sunday depends on whether it’s mentioned in either the person’s: employment contract written statement of terms and conditions A worker cannot be made to work on Sundays unless they agreed … Continue reading Sunday – work and pay →

Travellers urged to check on vaccinations to protect against risks

UKHSA urges overseas travellers, including Hajj pilgrims, to check well in advance to ensure they are up to date and have all necessary vaccinations The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is reminding summer holiday-makers, as well as Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, of the importance of ensuring they and any children, are fully up to date … Continue reading Travellers urged to check on vaccinations to protect against risks →

Passport application fees rise

The passport fees increased on 11th April 2024. The increases (which are subject to parliamentary) include: a standard online application made from within the UK will rise to £88.50 for adults and £57.50 for children a standard postal application will increase to £100.00 for adults and £69.00 for children a standard online application when applying … Continue reading Passport application fees rise →

DBT publish new guidance on Simplifying holiday entitlement and holiday pay calculations

How holiday pay and entitlement has changed from 1 January 2024. The Department for Business and Trade has published new guidance on Monday 1st January 2024 on the changes to holiday pay. This guidance sets out forthcoming changes to the Working Time Regulations which will affect: irregular hours workers and part-year workers accrual of COVID-19 … Continue reading DBT publish new guidance on Simplifying holiday entitlement and holiday pay calculations →

New Holiday Pay 12.07% – not as easy as you think!

Many employers and even payroll professionals have welcomed what some claim is a return of the 12.07% holiday pay method of operation which was ruled unlawful by the Supreme Court as not meeting the requirements of the Working Time Regulations (WTR) and the Employment Rights Act (ERA) method of calculating the weekly average earnings for … Continue reading New Holiday Pay 12.07% – not as easy as you think! →

Rolled Up Holiday Pay choice for Employers

For holiday years starting on or after 1st April 2024, Employers will be permitted to calculate annual leave entitlement as 12.07% of the hours worked in a pay period for irregular hours workers and part-year workers in the first year of employment and beyond. This does not apply to workers with regular hours who continue … Continue reading Rolled Up Holiday Pay choice for Employers →

Obsolete and burdensome EU rules to be removed from UK law

Proposed reforms allow businesses additional freedoms while retaining the UK’s world leading workers’ rights Proposals include reducing record keeping requirements around Working Time Regulations and simplifying the calculation of holiday pay and entitlement British businesses could save up to £1 billion a year as the Government confirms plans to remove unnecessary and outdated bureaucracy following … Continue reading Obsolete and burdensome EU rules to be removed from UK law →

Holiday consultation – the response

The government has responded to the consultation on reforms to retained EU employment law and the consultation on calculating holiday entitlement for irregular hours and part-time (IH&PT) workers. They will legislate to introduce reforms to annual leave and holiday pay calculations in the working time regulations. In brief, the government propose to reform or introduce … Continue reading Holiday consultation – the response →

The Payroll Services Summit – opening and part 1

PAYadvice.UK is pleased to be at the Payroll Services Summit in the centre of the City of London at the Banking Hall. The first session was from Mathew Akrigg if the CIPP. The first area covered was the changes from April 2024 to the payment of paternity leave and pay with the new option to … Continue reading The Payroll Services Summit – opening and part 1 →

Christmas 2023 and New Year 2024 – when are the Bank Holidays and what about paying early?

At last - Christmas Day and New Year’s Day don’t fall on weekends this year and there are no substitute days. So when are the Christmas and New Year Bank holidays? They’re all back to normal! Do Bank holidays have to be paid? Bank or public holidays do not have to be given as paid … Continue reading Christmas 2023 and New Year 2024 – when are the Bank Holidays and what about paying early? →

Regulating Umbrellas

Following the call for evidence in the umbrella company market with over 400 responses., the government have published the Summary of Responses document. The Call for Evidence was originally published in November 2021 and closed on 22nd February 2022. It asked for views and evidence to understand the reasons businesses and individuals use umbrella companies … Continue reading Regulating Umbrellas →

Wins for parents and carers workers rights

Parents and carers to be given new protections at work, covering leave entitlement and redundancy rules New rights derive from three Government backed cross party bills that have now been granted royal assent This follows a wave of wins for workers this year after a record National Minimum Wage uplift and measures to ensure staff … Continue reading Wins for parents and carers workers rights →

Bank Holidays – What are my rights?

How many bank or public holidays are there? In the calendar year there are usually 8 standard bank or public holidays in England and Wales. However, in 2022 there were two additional days for the Platinum Jubilee and the Queens funeral. To add further complexity, Christmas and a new Year fell on weekends so alternate … Continue reading Bank Holidays – What are my rights? →

Are holiday pay changes on the way

As part of the government proposals following BREXIT, the ‘Smarter Regulation to Grow the Economy’ published on Wednesday 10th May 2023 outlines adjustment to the Working Time Regulations. The Working Time Regulations, which are derived from retained EU legislation, provide a number of valuable worker protections. However, some of these regulations are viewed as placing … Continue reading Are holiday pay changes on the way →

Proposed regulation unveiled to cut red tape and grow the economy

The first package of deregulatory reforms claimed to grow the economy, cut costs for businesses and support consumers was unveiled Wednesday 10th May 2023 by the government. Taking advantage of post-Brexit freedoms, the Government is to remove some unnecessary red tape and regulatory burdens, ensuring rules and regulation for British businesses is proportionate and takes … Continue reading Proposed regulation unveiled to cut red tape and grow the economy →

Public encouraged to add Coronation events to digital map

An interactive map detailing events taking place to celebrate the Coronation has been launched by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport The Culture Secretary has called on the public to add their own events showcasing local celebrations that will bring communities together Comes as the Prime Minister confirms he will host a ‘Big Lunch’ … Continue reading Public encouraged to add Coronation events to digital map →

Coronation weekend celebrations that will bring communities together

Millions of people across the country and the Commonwealth are invited to celebrate the Coronation of His Majesty The King and Her Majesty The Queen Consort over a weekend of special events. The Nation and the Commonwealth will have the opportunity to join a weekend of celebrations to mark the Coronation of His Majesty The King and … Continue reading Coronation weekend celebrations that will bring communities together →

Calculating holiday entitlement for part-year and irregular hours workers

The Government are seeking views on proposals to pro-rata holiday entitlement for part-year and irregular hours workers based on the annual hours they work. Following the Supreme Court judgement in Harpur Trust v Brazel, the government are consulting on the calculation of holiday entitlement received by part-year and irregular hours workers. Presently all workers are … Continue reading Calculating holiday entitlement for part-year and irregular hours workers →

Thinking about holidays? Passport fees are rising!

The government does not make any profit from the cost of passport applications The government will introduce new passport fees for all applications on 2 February 2023, the first time in 5 years that the cost of applying for a passport has increased. The proposals, which are subject to Parliamentary scrutiny, will include the following: … Continue reading Thinking about holidays? Passport fees are rising! →

Holiday activity clubs to continue in 2023

Government confirms funding for holiday activities and food programme for 2023, supporting hundreds of thousands of children from low-income families. Hundreds of thousands of children across England will continue to access free, nutritious food and engaging activities over the school holidays, as the government confirms £200 million to fund the holiday activities and food programme … Continue reading Holiday activity clubs to continue in 2023 →

Payroll Services Summit 2022 – Part 1

Setting for the Payroll Services Summit 2022 (by psp 2022) It’s great to be amongst the payroll service community at the summit on Thursday 10th November 2022 at the London Science Museum at Illuminate 5. With the Underground on strike, many will have enjoyed walks on what is a dry weather day with reasonable warm … Continue reading Payroll Services Summit 2022 – Part 1 →

8th May 2023 Bank holiday proclaimed

The Prime Minister has proclaimed an additional bank holiday to mark the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III. The bank holiday will fall on Monday 8th May 2023, following the Coronation on Saturday 6th May 2023. In line with the bank holiday to mark Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Coronation in 1953, this will … Continue reading 8th May 2023 Bank holiday proclaimed →

Christmas 2022 and New Year 2023 – when are the Bank Holidays and what about paying early?

As Christmas Day and New Year’s Day fall on weekends, neither is a bank holiday and therefore substitute days are used instead. So Tuesday 27th December 2022 is the official bank holiday substitute for Christmas Day and Monday 2nd January 2023 the official substitute as New Years is a Sunday. Do Bank holidays have to … Continue reading Christmas 2022 and New Year 2023 – when are the Bank Holidays and what about paying early? →

Boost for carers who will receive new unpaid leave entitlement

New laws introduced entitling unpaid carers to 1 week of unpaid leave a year. new laws introduced entitling unpaid carers to 1 week of unpaid leave a year to support those most in need eligible employees will be able to take Carer’s Leave regardless of how long they have worked for their employer Millions of … Continue reading Boost for carers who will receive new unpaid leave entitlement →

Coronation Saturday 6th May 2023

Buckingham Palace is pleased to announce that the Coronation of His Majesty The King will take place on Saturday 6th May, 2023. The Coronation Ceremony will take place at Westminster Abbey, London, and will be conducted by the Archbishop of Canterbury. The Ceremony will see His Majesty King Charles III crowned alongside The Queen Consort. … Continue reading Coronation Saturday 6th May 2023 →

19th September 2022 confirmed as State Funeral and Bank Holiday

The department for Business Enterprise and Industrial Strategy have issued the following information and guidance. Monday 19th September 2022 will be a bank holiday to coincide with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s State Funeral bank holiday to mark the last day of the period of national mourning Monday 19th September 2022, the date of Her … Continue reading 19th September 2022 confirmed as State Funeral and Bank Holiday →

State funeral will be a public holiday

King Charles III has approved, at the ceremony St James palace proclaiming him as monarch, a bank holiday across the United Kingdom for the day of the funeral of his mother Queen Elizabeth II. The date of the Funeral is yet to be confirmed but it is believed to take place ten days after the … Continue reading State funeral will be a public holiday →

Get kids active over the summer holidays

Disney-inspired campaign relaunches to help kids get one hour of physical activity every day over the summer holidays. Only 45% of children are meeting the Chief Medical Officer’s guidelines of one hour of physical activity a dayThe campaign seeks to inspire kids to get active by using some of their favourite stories and characters from … Continue reading Get kids active over the summer holidays →

Harpur Trust (Appellant) v Brazel (Respondent) [2022]UKSC 21 On appeal from: [2019] EWCA Civ 1402

Justices Lord Hodge, Lord Briggs, Lady Arden, Lord Burrows, Lady Rose. Background to the Appeal This appeal concerns the calculation of annual leave and holiday pay entitlements for workers who work for varying hours during only certain weeks of the year but have a contract throughout that year (“part–year workers”). The Respondent, Ms Brazel, is … Continue reading Harpur Trust (Appellant) v Brazel (Respondent) [2022]UKSC 21 On appeal from: [2019] EWCA Civ 1402 →

Supreme Court Holiday Pay ruling – 12.07% is unlawful

The Supreme Court have dismissed the Harpur Trust appeal against the Court of Appeal ruling on percentage holiday pay scheme being unlawful. The court confirms that the minimum holiday pay due must comply with the Employment Rights Act 1996 (and as amended) under section 224. The case related to a Part Year Worker who until … Continue reading Supreme Court Holiday Pay ruling – 12.07% is unlawful →

Families can use Tax-Free Childcare to help pay for childcare costs this summer.

With school summer holidays less than a month away, HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) are reminding families of financial support that can help pay for childcare. Through Tax-Free Childcare, families can receive up to £2,000 a year per child – or £4,000 if their child is disabled – to put towards the cost of childcare. … Continue reading Families can use Tax-Free Childcare to help pay for childcare costs this summer. →

Allow up to ten weeks to apply for a British passport

People are being urged not to leave their application for a British passport to the last minute, with demand currently at an all-time high. Since April 2021 HM Passport Office has been advising people to allow up to ten weeks when applying for their passport. This advice remains. Due to COVID-19, HM Passport Office saw … Continue reading Allow up to ten weeks to apply for a British passport →

COVID-19 travel restrictions removed

The government will remove the remaining COVID-19 international travel restrictions for all passengers from 4am Friday 18th March 2022. from 4am 18th March 2022 no-one entering the UK will need to take tests or complete a passenger locator formremaining managed hotel quarantine capacity will be fully stood down from the end of March, making the … Continue reading COVID-19 travel restrictions removed →

800 families facing tough times to be offered holidays

Families struggling financially, or facing illness, isolation or bereavement, will have an opportunity for a weekend break thanks to a new government fund. ‘England for Everyone’ fund will provide holidays and trips for more than 800 families facing difficult timesFamily Holiday Charity will use the funding to arrange trips for families during 2022It help those … Continue reading 800 families facing tough times to be offered holidays →

Call for Evidence: umbrella company market

The government has published a call for evidence on the umbrella company market. Umbrellas - what are they? Umbrella companies play a role in the labour market by facilitating the engagement of temporary workers. Umbrella companies employ individuals on behalf of clients and employment businesses. They do not source work for the employee, which is … Continue reading Call for Evidence: umbrella company market →

Precautionary measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 Omicron variant

Face coverings From 4am Tuesday 30th November 2021 face coverings are compulsory in shops and other settings such as banks, post offices and hairdressers, as well as on public transport unless individuals are exempt. All international arrivals Travellers arriving into the country from 4am on Tuesday 30th November 2021 are required to take a PCR … Continue reading Precautionary measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 Omicron variant →

Paying early for Christmas?

Reporting PAYE information in real time when payments are made early at Christmas As part of the employer bulletin, HMRC are reminding employers of the permanent easement on reporting PAYE-information in real time which has been in place since 2019. Some employers pay employees early for the Christmas period. This can be for a number … Continue reading Paying early for Christmas? →

Simplified travel system takes off

new simplified travel system with a single red list and the rest of the world comes into force from 4th October 2021at 4amfully vaccinated travellers from over 50 countries and territories have simpler, cheaper rules, with just a single post arrival test neededchanges come as UK welcomes fully vaccinated residents of over 50 countries and … Continue reading Simplified travel system takes off →

ID cards phased out as acceptable travel documents into U.K.

From Friday 1st October 2021, most EU, EEA and Swiss citizens will need a valid passport to enter the UK as the government stops accepting national identity (ID) cards as a travel document. ID cards are considered some of the most abused documents seen by Border Force officers and, last year, almost half of all … Continue reading ID cards phased out as acceptable travel documents into U.K. →

Holiday accrual, how does it work?

Holiday entitlements and pay are some of the most misunderstood and abused employment rights law in the UK. Statistics show that 1.8 million workers and employees are denied their holiday pay rights amounting to underpayments of £1.8 billion. A number of myths abound in UK employment practice, especially around the concept of Holiday Accrual, Holiday … Continue reading Holiday accrual, how does it work? →

TUC urges ban on umbrella companies – end exploitation of workers amid scandalous workplace practices which have “no place in modern Britain”

Union body warns use of umbrella companies could spiral post-pandemic New TUC research estimates that half of agency workers work for umbrella companies The TUC has called for umbrella companies to be banned. The union body says the scandalous workplace practices associated with umbrella companies have “no place in modern Britain”. An umbrella company is … Continue reading TUC urges ban on umbrella companies – end exploitation of workers amid scandalous workplace practices which have “no place in modern Britain” →

Government launches campaign encouraging families to Rediscover Summer

The campaign highlights a range of activities and opportunities for families, children and young people such as exploring a local museum or discovering a National Cycling Network TrailFamilies encouraged to get back out and Rediscover Summer after a year of missed opportunities The government’s Rediscover Summer campaign has launched to help inspire families to get … Continue reading Government launches campaign encouraging families to Rediscover Summer →

Let footie fans work flexibly to watch Euro 2020

As Euro 2020 approaches its last games, the TUC has published advice for bosses whose staff want to watch games during their normal working hours. The TUC suggests that bosses:   · talk to their employees in advance about arrangements for key games · arrange for their staff to watch the game somewhere on the company’s … Continue reading Let footie fans work flexibly to watch Euro 2020 →

How are you managing childcare provisions and support?

The TUC working in collaboration with Mother Pukka, would like to hear from parents about childcare and the upcoming summer holidays. The pandemic has had a significant impact on parents and the childcare sector. With the six weeks holidays approaching the TUC want to hear from parents about what childcare provision and support is available, … Continue reading How are you managing childcare provisions and support? →

Help towards the cost of children’s summer holiday activities

Tax-Free Childcare – a childcare top-up for working parents – can be used to help pay for accredited holiday clubs, childminders or sports activities. HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) is reminding working families that they can use Tax-Free Childcare to help pay for their childcare costs over the summer. Tax-Free Childcare – a childcare top-up … Continue reading Help towards the cost of children’s summer holiday activities →

Government to protect workers’ rights and clamp down on workplace abuse with powerful new body

New workers’ watchdog to take over responsibility for tackling modern slavery, enforcing minimum wage, and moreone-stop shop will improve enforcement and ensure employees and businesses know where to go for help on workers’ rightsBusiness Minister Paul Scully: We will take action against big brands that turn a blind eye to abuses A powerful new workers’ … Continue reading Government to protect workers’ rights and clamp down on workplace abuse with powerful new body →

COVID-19 Charter for holidaymakers launched

Charter provides clear information for passengers outlining their rights and responsibilities when travelling this summer. Passenger COVID-19 Charter published as people allowed to begin travelling again internationally for leisurecharter details how holidaymakers can travel safely, including information on passenger rights and responsibilities, what to do if things go wrong and how to stay safe abroadAviation … Continue reading COVID-19 Charter for holidaymakers launched →

Non-compliance with basic employment rights in the labour market highlights the need for reform – TUC

The Trades Union Congress (TUC) have published a research paper outlining an action plan to reform labour market enforcement. TUC action plan to reform labour market enforcement They claim that ‘significant reforms are needed to make sure that all workers (and especially low paid, insecure workers) have a viable route to enforce their basic workplace … Continue reading Non-compliance with basic employment rights in the labour market highlights the need for reform – TUC →

Traffic light system: safe return to international travel

From 17th May 2021, the ‘Stay in the UK’ regulation will cease and international travel will be allowed to restart, governed by a new traffic light system. Written statement to Parliament - Rt Hon Grant Schapps MP We have made enormous progress this year in tackling the pandemic across Britain. That progress has been hard … Continue reading Traffic light system: safe return to international travel →

HMRC publish guidance for those employed by umbrellas

HMRC have published further guidance (29th April 2021) to clarify the position on agency and contractors who are employees of umbrella organisations. Working through an umbrella company Those employed by umbrellas can find out about how and what they will be paid if they are an agency worker or contractor and work through an umbrella … Continue reading HMRC publish guidance for those employed by umbrellas →

BEIS-HMRC Joint National Minimum Wage Stakeholder Forum

BEIS and HMRC held a Joint National Minimum Wage (NMW) virtual Stakeholder Forum on 29th April 2021 with employer and Minimum pay industry experts. They have kindly shared the presentation slides from the day. The government department responsible for employment law including National Minimum Wage is the Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS). … Continue reading BEIS-HMRC Joint National Minimum Wage Stakeholder Forum →

The key steps Government has taken to support workers

The UK has one of the best workers’ rights records in the world. Following the 1st May International Workers’ Day 2021, the UK reflects on some of the key steps the Government has taken to support workers since last year. Looking to the future, the government is bringing forward plans to crack down on workplace … Continue reading The key steps Government has taken to support workers →

COVID-19 support – what’s available and actions you or your clients may need

Dear Payadvice Ltd, I’m writing to you with the latest information about financial support schemes available to help your clients as part of the UK Government’s Plan for Jobs. This includes the latest on the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS), the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) and the VAT deferral new payment scheme. Thank you for … Continue reading COVID-19 support – what’s available and actions you or your clients may need →

COVID-19 support – latest information

Dear Payadvice Ltd, I’m writing to you with the latest information about financial support schemes available to help your clients. This includes the latest on the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS), the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) and the VAT deferral new payment scheme. Self-Employment Income Support Scheme To support you in helping your clients, here … Continue reading COVID-19 support – latest information →

Apply early for British passport

The government have urged people not to delay applying for a British passport and to allow more time to be processed. While it is still illegal to holiday overseas and the “Stay in the UK” regulation remains in place, by applying for a passport now, people can make sure nothing stands in their way when … Continue reading Apply early for British passport →

Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) launched

New agreement ensures the rights of UK residents to access emergency and medically necessary care when travelling in the EU will continue. UK’s new Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) launched as part of UK / EU dealGlobal Health Insurance Card (GHIC) will gradually replace existing European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) UK residents will now be … Continue reading Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) launched →

Tier review results in additional 50,000 business closures

A number of areas will move into higher tiers from 00:01 on Saturday 26th December. The government has decided to act ahead of the formal review point, to contain the spread of the new strain of #COVID19. It is thought that an additional 50,000 business will be required to close until further tier reviews allow … Continue reading Tier review results in additional 50,000 business closures →

Christmas holiday, Christmas bonus and the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme

As part of his update from Thursday 17th December 2020, Jim Harra of HMRC has provided the following clarifications. Can I use CJRS to pay for holiday leave? If employers have furloughed employees because of the effect of coronavirus on their business, they can claim under the CJRS for periods of paid leave they take … Continue reading Christmas holiday, Christmas bonus and the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme →

ACAS – ‘If you’re one of the elves working over Christmas, what are your rights?’

ACAS have guidance on employment rights for those working during the Christmas season. If you have to work over the Christmas period, what are your rights? Some of the key considerations ACAS raise include: your employer must pay you at least the minimum wage, though this depends on how old you arethere is no entitlement … Continue reading ACAS – ‘If you’re one of the elves working over Christmas, what are your rights?’ →

Extended Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – guidance updates 1st December 2020

HMRC has applied further updates to the guidance for the extended CJRS on Tuesday 1st December 2020: Call out box of key messages at top of all pages changed to say: The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme has been extended until 31st March 2021. Claims for furlough days in November 2020 must be submitted by 14th … Continue reading Extended Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme – guidance updates 1st December 2020 →

Christmas, holidays and furlough!

So what should happen for furloughed workers, especially as many would not normally be working across Christmas and New Year? Can they be furloughed during those periods? Must employers top-up to 100% holiday pay? Furloughed workers Where a bank holiday (such as Christmas, Boxing Day and New Year) falls inside a worker’s period of furlough … Continue reading Christmas, holidays and furlough! →

Extra Bank Holiday to mark The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022

Culture Secretary announces plans to mark Her Majesty The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in June 2022. Nation will come together over a four-day Bank Holiday weekend to celebrate The Queen’s 70 year reignExtensive programme of public events will mix traditional pageantry with cutting edge technological displays Jubilee medal will be created and awarded to public services workers … Continue reading Extra Bank Holiday to mark The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022 →