Pennine HR

09/12/2025

Big changes are coming in employment law, but not everything is set in stone just yet...

The government has proposed removing the cap on unfair dismissal compensation, which is currently the lower of £118,223 or 52 weeks’ pay. If passed, this would mean ordinary unfair dismissal awards could become uncapped for the first time.

But here’s the key point: the Employment Rights Bill is still going through Parliament, and the final shape - including whether awards truly become unlimited - isn’t confirmed.

What it could mean:

• Higher dismissal-related risk for employers

• Greater emphasis on fair, well-documented processes • More strategic ER and settlement planning

Watch this space.

📌Pennine HR will keep you updated as the Bill progresses.

01/12/2025

Exciting news from Pennine HR!

We’ve given our offices a fresh new look – and while we were at it, we decided our logo deserved a little facelift too✨

Rest assured, nothing else has changed and you can still count on the same trusted team and the high-quality HR support you’ve always relied on. That’s our promise.

A huge thank you to Karl Ward and his team ORS UK for our fabulous new furniture and Matt Clay and the fantastic team at Simprint Sowerby Bridge for helping us bring this vision to life with new signage and a cohesive look. We’re thrilled with the results and hope you love it as much as we do!

If you’re nearby, pop in for a cuppa – we’d love to show you around☕

As always, we’ll still come to you when you need us, but if you’d prefer, you’re very welcome to come to us🤩

27/11/2025

Why Your Employees Will Feel the Budget More Than You Think

The 2025 Budget means one thing for employees: less take-home pay without earning more.

Pension perks are worth less, tax thresholds are frozen, and the cost of living isn’t easing.
So what happens next?
• Perks matter more than ever - flexibility, wellbeing, development, real progression.
• Retention risk rises - people under pressure move towards employers who genuinely support them.
In 2025, engagement isn’t a “nice to have” - it’s your competitive edge.
A supportive culture and clear communication will keep your people, even when the numbers get tighter.
Pennine HR is here to help SMEs navigate this challenging financial climate.

25/11/2025

How to Keep the Christmas Party Merry and Risk-Free

As festive season plans ramp up, many organisations are excited to celebrate their teams’ hard work. But the annual Christmas party also comes with risks - from misconduct, exclusion, and accessibility issues to safety concerns and post-event complaints.

A well-planned celebration protects both your people and your organisation. Here are some ways to keep the festivities enjoyable, inclusive, and safe:

✨ 1. Set Clear Expectations

Share a friendly reminder about conduct, respectful behaviour, and your organisation’s values.

✨ 2. Make Inclusion a Priority

Not everyone celebrates Christmas and not everyone drinks. Offer alcohol-free options, cater to diverse dietary needs.

✨ 3. Encourage Responsible Drinking

Provide food early, offer plenty of non-alcoholic drinks, and arrange safe transport options.

✨ 4. Equip Your Managers

Give them guidance on handling issues discreetly and supporting employees throughout the event.

✨ 5. Follow Up Thoughtfully

After the event, reinforce appreciation for your team and remind them of confidential reporting channels should anything arise.

If your organisation needs support planning a safe and inclusive festive event, we’re here to help.

21/11/2025

Let's Talk Dismissals...

One of the hardest responsibilities in HR is delivering news that profoundly impacts someone’s life.

This week, the HR Caddy Team was reminded just how important it is to approach dismissals, especially those related to medical capability, with empathy, clarity, and humanity.

A compassionate dismissal doesn’t soften the outcome, but it does preserve dignity. Here are our top 3 tips:

• Take the time to understand the person’s situation. Know the process, the reasons, and what support you can offer.
• Remember there’s a real person on the other side. Show understanding and compassion.
• Be honest and straightforward. Avoid confusing language or jargon.

Difficult conversations will always be part of HR - but they don’t have to be cold. If you need support having these conversations, we can offer training or handle them on your behalf. Either way, we are here to ensure your organisation remains legally compliant and compassionate throughout.

19/11/2025

Today is International Men’s Day — a chance to recognise the positive contributions men make in our workplaces, families and communities.

It’s also an opportunity to highlight the importance of men’s wellbeing, mental health, and creating supportive environments where everyone can thrive.

Let’s continue encouraging open conversations, challenging stereotypes, and supporting each other — today and every day.

11/11/2025

Remembrance Day

Today, we pause to remember and honour all who have served and sacrificed for our freedom.

Their courage and selflessness will never be forgotten.

We will remember them.

02/05/2024