"This book does what it says on the proverbial tin. Michael Bear offers a guide to and accessible overview of the core principles of employment law in the UK, with case law examples and a glossary of common terms, as well as 110 handy 'test yourself' questions spread across the chapter endings to help reinforce the learnings."
CIPD People Management Magazine, November 2023
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Designed to be a user-friendly resource, the book is ideal for HR professionals and employees who wish to understand the laws that shape their employment. Furthermore, it is an indispensable tool for international businesses considering an expansion into the UK. The guide ensures they are well-informed and fully compliant with the numerous subtleties inherent in the country's labour laws.

Release & Availability

Highlights

  • Provides a comprehensive yet concise overview of all critical aspects of UK Employment Law, making it a valuable resource for professionals.
  • Enriched with intriguing facts and real-world scenarios to offer a practical understanding of the subject matter.
  • Includes 110 questions at the end of each chapter to solidify your knowledge and promote active learning.
  • Features insightful case studies of authentic employment tribunal outcomes, showing how these rulings have influenced the evolution of the law.
  • It contains a glossary of common Employment Law terms, explaining over 100 commonly used terms in an easy-to-understand manner, making it an excellent reference tool.
  • Outlines and summarises frequently referenced employment laws, including their latest amendments, ensuring readers stay updated with the legal landscape.

Ch. 1-9: An Overview of UK Employment Law

This opening chapter explores UK Employment Law in-depth, outlining its definition and the wide-ranging areas it covers. It provides a strong foundation for the detailed discussions in the following chapters. Designed as an engaging introduction for a diverse audience—including HR professionals, managers, and employees—this chapter offers a clear overview of key topics like employment contracts, discrimination, health and safety regulations, dismissal and redundancy, data protection, and important employment statutes. It sets the stage for an enriching learning experience, ensuring readers understand the fundamental aspects of UK Employment Law.

Ch. 2-9: Rights & Responsibilities

UK Employment Law outlines crucial responsibilities and rights for workers and employers. These are often built on precedent and historical evolution, like many legal matters. It also examines specific employer obligations, such as adherence to the 'Right of Access' and 'Right of Erasure' under the Data Protection Act 2018. Additionally, we shed light on the Transfer of Undertakings (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2006 (TUPE), National Insurance, and the crucial aspect of Equality.

Ch. 3-9: Employment Contracts

This chapter extensively explores the vital components of employment contracts. It begins with an overview that underscores their significance and then dissects the critical elements of a standard contract. It also delves into the individual rights an employee has under these contracts. Additionally, it highlights the distinct employment rights in specific sectors, such as Retail and Healthcare, emphasising industry-specific differences. This comprehensive analysis of employment contracts is invaluable for anyone seeking a thorough understanding of their implications and nuances.

Ch. 4-9: Wages, Benefits, & Pensions

Highlights the laws governing the compensation of individuals in employment. After providing an overview of minimum wage laws, we delve into the historical context of the National Minimum Wage Act and the National Living Wage. This includes a full-page table that charts the pay progression under this pivotal legislation. The chapter further explores the nuances of overtime and holiday pay. It concludes with a comprehensive overview of pensions and other benefits, offering readers a well-rounded understanding of remuneration and its various aspects in employment.

Ch. 5-9: Health & Safety in the Workplace

Establishing a secure and healthy work environment is a key duty of employers in the UK. This obligation extends to everyone—employers, employees, workers, and self-employed contractors—legally required to help fulfil this responsibility. This chapter explores the fundamental rights, duties, and obligations of all parties involved in this important law sector. It offers a comprehensive understanding of the expectations and legal requirements to maintain a conducive working environment, making it essential reading for all stakeholders in the employment sector.

Ch. 6-9: Resolving Issues in the Workplace

This chapter thoroughly explains common employment law issues and the processes to resolve them. It explains communication and negotiation, essential skills for managing workplace conflicts. Additionally, it covers mediation, conciliation, and arbitration mechanisms, providing a comprehensive guide to conflict resolution pathways. This chapter is a must-read for anyone looking to navigate and resolve disputes within UK Employment Law effectively.

Ch. 7-9: Employment Tribunal

This chapter explores the Employment Tribunal, a critical part of UK Employment Law. It starts by discussing the circumstances and reasons for turning to the tribunal. Next, it unravels the intricacies of the tribunal process, providing a clear roadmap. It concludes by examining potential outcomes and their implications, giving readers a comprehensive understanding of the tribunal journey. This chapter is an essential guide for anyone dealing with or interested in the dynamics of the Employment Tribunal.

Ch. 8-9: Employment Tribunal Case Studies

Presents a compelling collection of significant Employment Tribunal case studies, offering valuable insights into the real-world implications of UK Employment Law. This includes landmark cases such as Wilson & Others v. United Kingdom (2002), HMRC v. Stringer (2009), Autoclenz Ltd v. Belcher & Others (2011), Bear Scotland Ltd v. Fulton (2014), British Gas Trading Ltd v. Lock (2016), Uber BV v. Aslam (2016), King v. The Sash Window Workshop (2017), Donelien v. Liberata UK Ltd (2018), Pimlico Plumbers Ltd v. Smith (2018), and Dudley M.B.C v. Willetts (2018). This chapter provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of how these cases have shaped and influenced UK Employment Law.

Ch. 9-9: Future of Employment Law in the UK

Forecasts the potential trajectory of UK Employment Law, considering key influencing factors. It begins by examining the implications of Brexit on the employment landscape. Next, it discusses the effect of technological advancements on employment practices and legal considerations. The chapter concludes by exploring the legal implications of emerging trends, such as remote and flexible working. This forward-looking chapter provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the evolving nature of Employment Law in the face of societal and technological shifts.

App. I: Glossary of Common Terms

A handy reference guide offering a glossary of standard terms used in UK Employment Law. This comprehensive dictionary helps readers navigate the complex language of the law by simplifying common legal jargon into understandable terms. It is an essential tool for anyone looking to deepen their understanding and fluency in UK Employment Law.

App. II: Glossary of Frequently Cited Laws

Offers an accessible directory of UK Employment Law's most frequently cited laws. This includes critical legislation such as the Data Protection Act 2018, Equality Act 2010, Work & Families Act 2006, Agency Workers Regulations 2010, Employment Act 2008, Employment Relations 1999, Employment Rights Act 1996, Health & Safety at Work Act 1974, National Minimum Wage Act 1998, Pensions Act 1995, Trade Union Act 2016, Public Interest Disclosure Act 1998, and Working Time Regulations 1998. This appendix is a valuable resource for readers, providing a quick reference for understanding and contextualising these crucial laws.

App. III: Resources for Further Exploration

Provides a comprehensive repository of resources for those wishing to delve deeper into UK Employment Law. This resource guide includes recommended reading materials, websites, professional bodies, and more, offering readers many avenues for further exploration and study. This appendix is a starting point for those eager to expand their knowledge and understanding of the subject.

App. IV: Test Yourself - The Answers

Serves as a comprehensive answer key to the 'Test Yourself' sections throughout the book. This section provides readers with the correct responses and explanations, allowing them to gauge their understanding and reinforce their learning of UK Employment Law. It is an excellent tool for self-assessment and further study.

App. V: Credits & Sources

Dedicated to acknowledging and crediting the valuable sources and references used throughout the book, it includes image credits, acknowledging the creators and sources of visual content. Additionally, it outlines a comprehensive list of references, providing credibility and a resource for further exploration. This appendix underscores the commitment to academic integrity and respect for intellectual property.

App. VI: Index

Provides a detailed index to the book, serving as a quick reference guide for readers. Organised alphabetically, readers can quickly locate specific topics, terms, or sections. This comprehensive index enhances the book's usability, making it a more valuable resource for anyone studying or referencing UK Employment Law.