Additional Paternity Leave for Fathers
A mother will be able to transfer up to six months maternity leave to the father as “Additional Paternity Leave” (APL), once she mother has returned to work and the child is over 20 weeks old.
The regulations that are expected to be implemented from 6th April 2010, will require the Father to be eligible in the same way as they were to take the usual Statutory Paternity Leave.
The proposed rate of pay will be the same as Statutory Paternity Leave.
The new Sick/Fit Notes
The new “Fit Notes” will be introduced on 6th April 2010.
They will now include 2 options either:
“unfit for work”
“may be fit for work”
GPs will now be able to certify that an employee is unfit for work or 'may be fit for some work. The fit note also asks doctors to list whether the employee would benefit from a 'phased return to work', 'amended duties', 'altered hours' and 'workplace adaptations'.
Employee Study and Training Regulations
These Regulations, give employees the right to ask their employer to give them time off for training. Requests and considerations should follow the existing model of the right to request flexible working.
The new right will come into force from 6 April 2010 for businesses with 250 or more employees and for all businesses from 6 April 2011. Employees will need to have a minimum of 26 weeks service with their employer to be eligible to apply and must explain in writing how the training will improve their effectiveness at work and their employer's business.
Data Protection Regulations 2010
Employers could face large fines from the Information Commissioner if inaccurate data is disclosed in an employment reference resulting in the loss of a job opportunity for an individual.
Organisations may have to pay up to £500,000 for serious breaches of the Data Protection Act.
If you require additional information or assistance with updating your employment policies we will be pleased to assist you at Black Dog HR Consultancy Ltd: Tel: 01280 817341 Mob: 07976 093549