April sees the routine raft of workplace regulatory changes come into force that will impact on employers of all sizes. While many large employers have designated HR functions to help them keep up to speed with the ever-changing rules and regulations governing the world of work, it can prove difficult for the small business owner. Jo Bostock, business adviser at the Forum of Private Business explains:

“Keeping up to speed with red tape can prove time consuming and costly. However, failure to comply with regulation changes could result in hefty fines and a damaged reputation, which could break a small business. Therefore it pays to ensure that you seek advice or updates to make sure you are ready well in advance.”

Key employment law changes that small business owners should have on their radar and key developments on the horizon are:

Changes to statutory sick pay, maternity and redundancy pay

From 6th April the statutory sick pay rate increases from £87.55 to £88.45 per week. Maternity pay, ordinary and additional paternity and adoption pay increase from £138.18 to £139.58. The maximum amount of a week's pay for calculating statutory redundancy pay will also change to £475.

Shared parental leave

Employees who are the parents of children born on or after 5th April 2015 will have the right to request shared parental leave and pay. The new rules work by a couple being allowed to share some of the mother’s entitlement to maternity leave by opting into shared parental leave (SPL). Each eligible parent is able to submit three notices booking periods of leave. Employees can request they alternate the 12 months leave available between them, potentially on a monthly basis....Read more here