October 2024 – Insightful Discussion on Employment Changes
October 2024 was the usual excellent breakfast and lively conversation.
Guest speaker, Joanne Moss from Moss HR
Jo gave us an update on the new employment protection measures currently being introduced by the government.
Some measures are still out for consultation and therefore unlikely to come into effect until 2026.
Jo reviewed what we know so far and what the measures include:
1. Unfair dismissal would be a right from Day one although there is likely to be a statutory probation period for new employees.
2. Fire and re-hire would be ended.
3. Zero-hours contracts would be ended as they are considered exploitative.
4. Flexible working will be available but will be a default for everyone.
5. Parental and bereavement leave will be extended to everyone.
6. There will be enhanced protection for pregnant and new mothers.
7. Statutory sick pay will be payable from Day one.
8. The lower earnings limit will be renewed.
9. The gender pay gap will be removed for businesses with more than 200 employees.
10. There will be enhanced protection from sexual harassment and it will cover not only businesses but clients and customers.
Finally, Jo distributed some pictures for people to spot various infringements in terms of harassment and other employer misdemeanours.
For the Future
Anyone who needs to refresh their Member Spotlight or has not yet been featured in a Member Spotlight on the website please contact publicity officer Alison Withers: [email protected]
Chairman Colin Tapscott is always happy to receive any suggestions for what members want to see the Chamber doing in the future. Please send your ideas (and your wish lists) to [email protected]
The date for the Christmas event will be Friday, 13 December and there will be stalls, a Father Christmas race, a Christmas jumper competition and a Christmas Buffet Lunch. The event will be from 10 am to 12.30 pm. Just a reminder, this replaces the Coffee Morning and Networking Breakfast in December.
In addition, he informed attendees that Stowmarket High School is holding a Dragons Den event and business members are invited to be dragons. Just let Colin know if you are interested.
Stowupland High School will be holding a careers day on December 4, if anyone would like to attend.
Dates for your diary:
Please check the website in case of any last-minute changes.
| Chamber Breakfast | Christmas Celebration |
| The Mix Stowmarket 127 Ipswich Street Stowmarket IP14 1BB or on Zoom |
The Mix Stowmarket 127 Ipswich Street Stowmarket IP14 1BB |
| Friday, 15 November 2024 | Friday, 13 December 2024 |
| 7.15 am to 9.00 am | 10.00 am to 12.30 pm |
For more information contact Keely Taylor by phone: 01449 770965 or e-mail: [email protected].
