Check their eligibility to work in the UK
Don't make general assumptions based on race, ethnic or national origin, colour or nationality. Business Link has a comprehensive section on
how to check someones eligible to work in the UK, that includes information on documentation and work permits.
See also this information from HMRC on
how to avoid employing an illegal worker.
Have employers liability insurance in place
If you employ staff you must, by law, have employer’s liability insurance in place and display the certificate in your workplace. Don’t risk a fine by not having this compulsory insurance. You can
get a quote for employer’s liability insurance here.
Make the job offer properly
Make the job offer in writing and make sure you include:
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The offer of employment
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The job title
- Any conditions that apply, such as satisfactory references or completion of satisfactory probation period
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The pay, hours, benefits, pension arrangements, holiday entitlement, place of employment, etc
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The start date
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What they need to do next eg return a signed acceptance of the offer, agree a start date, etc.
See a complete range of contracts, policies, forms and letter templates to
help recruit staff, manage employees, and right through to redundancy and dismissal.
Provide a valid employment contract
Within 2 months of starting work you should provide your employee with a written statement of employment (an employment contract) which should contain:
- Your business name
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The name of the employee
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The date their employment started
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How much you are paying them and when eg weekly or monthly
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Normal working days/hours, and if there is a requirement for these to differ
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Normal place of work, and any requirements for it to differ
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Holiday entitlement
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Sick leave and sick pay entitlement
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Notice period to terminate the employment
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Your disciplinary and grievance procedures
Full time, part time, contractor and sales rep employment contracts, plus many other
types of employment contract are available here.