Key points
- A written statement of particulars and grievance procedure are legal minimums
- Short, clear policies staff actually read beat exhaustive unread handbooks
- Add policies as genuine needs arise rather than trying to cover everything upfront
- A one-off professional review upfront is cheaper than a tribunal caused by a gap
The legal minimum
A written statement of employment particulars, a disciplinary and grievance procedure, and a health and safety policy are required by UK law once you employ staff.
Keep policies short and clear
A two-page policy staff actually read and follow beats a fifty-page handbook that sits unopened — clarity matters more than exhaustive coverage.
Updating as you grow
Add policies as genuine needs arise — flexible working, parental leave and equal opportunities policies become more pressing as headcount grows.
Getting it reviewed
A one-off review from an HR consultant or employment solicitor when you first draft policies is far cheaper than an employment tribunal caused by a gap in them.
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