Health & Safety

25th April: Why Business Owners Should Care About Global Health in the Workplace

24 04 2025

World Malaria Day – 25th April | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, Employment Law, General, Health & Safety #Malaria, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, outsourcedHR, Small Business, SME's

World Malaria Day – 25th April: Why Business Owners Should Care About Global Health in the Workplace

Meta Description:
This World Malaria Day, discover why global health awareness matters for UK businesses. Learn how HR policies can support employee wellbeing, travel safety, and inclusive company culture.

World Malaria Day – 25th April: Why Global Health Awareness Matters in the Workplace

By Matthew Chilcott – Owner, Consensus HR

As a business owner or manager, you may wonder what World Malaria Day has to do with your day-to-day operations. But in today’s increasingly connected world, health awareness is a vital part of responsible leadership and effective people management.

At Consensus HR, we believe that good HR practices are about more than policies and compliance. They are about building a business that’s not only productive and legally sound, but also ethical, inclusive, and supportive of global values.

Why Should Employers Acknowledge World Malaria Day?

Even if your team is UK-based, World Malaria Day (25th April) offers an opportunity to align your business with international awareness initiatives and demonstrate care for your people.

Duty of Care for International Staff & Travellers: If your business involves international travel or has links to global markets, robust travel health policies are essential. Malaria is still prevalent in many regions and poses a genuine risk.
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: Employees with family connections to malaria-affected areas may appreciate recognition of this global health issue. It’s a small action with a big message: we care about your whole wellbeing.
Health & Safety Compliance: UK Health & Safety regulations require employers to assess and mitigate risk—including during overseas travel.
Corporate Social Responsibility & Brand Reputation: Supporting days like World Malaria Day enhances your reputation as a socially responsible employer and boosts employee engagement.

What Should Employers Be Doing?

As business leaders, here are a few strategic HR actions to consider:

Review your travel and health risk policy – Address international risks like malaria if your team travels abroad.
Include World Health Days in internal calendars – This supports wellbeing and inclusivity.
Communicate openly – Encourage dialogue around global health and ensure employees know you care beyond business performance.
Involve your team – Organise a short awareness session or charity fundraiser. These build culture and morale.

A Word from Matthew Chilcott, Owner – Consensus HR

“As business owners, we’re often focused on the bottom line, but our people are our greatest asset. Recognising global events like World Malaria Day helps foster a culture of care, compassion, and global awareness. At Consensus HR, we support our clients in building not just profitable businesses, but responsible ones too.”

How Consensus HR Supports Your Business

We work with SMEs and growing businesses to build practical HR strategies that meet your legal requirements and enhance team wellbeing. Whether it’s:

Travel health and safety policies
Employee wellbeing frameworks
Staff handbooks and HR compliance
Leadership and management training

— we’re here to ensure your team is safe, supported, and productive.

Stay Connected – Follow Us for More HR Support & Insights

📞 Want to review your current policies or wellbeing approach?
Contact us at [email protected] or visit www.consensushr.com to learn more.

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

At Consensus HR, we are proud to offer a wide range of HR & Employment Law services to help our clients with all areas of best practice and Employment Law which can be found by clicking on the button:

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Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

If your business always wishes that it works in all areas to the benefit of the team and company and as an employer of choice, give us a call or email now for a non-obligatory chat. Consensus HR | Your Outsourced Human Resources and Employment Law Department | “Helping companies take the pain out of managing people whilst Preventing People Problems.” 01438 576750

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Important Health & Safety Update | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

15 04 2025

The Do’s and Don’ts: Neonatal Leave | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, Employment Law, General, Health & Safety @sg1businessclub, #BTCstevenage, #consensus hr, #consensushr, #Dos&Dont's, #neonatalcare, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, SME, SME's

A Guide for Business Owners & Managers

From April 2025, the Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023 will come into effect, giving eligible parents up to 12 weeks of paid neonatal leave, separate from other parental leave.

At Consensus HR, we’re helping businesses prepare with this essential guidance:

✅ DO:

Update your HR policies to reflect the new entitlement.
Communicate clearly with staff about the change.
Train line managers to handle sensitive conversations with empathy.
Track absences correctly – neonatal leave is separate.
Provide wellbeing support and signpost resources.
Stay compliant and ahead of legal obligations.

❌ DON’T:

Don’t treat it as ‘optional’ – this is a statutory right.
Don’t delay responding to requests or policy updates.
Don’t assume every situation is the same – families need different support.
Don’t underestimate the impact of poor implementation on morale.

“This is an incredibly important and compassionate step forward in employment law. As a business owner or manager, recognising and respecting neonatal leave is not only a legal obligation, but also a chance to show your team that you care.”
— Matthew Chilcott, Owner – Consensus HR

📘 Learn More:

GOV.UK Neonatal Leave Overview
ACAS Guidance on Neonatal Leave
Neonatal Care (Leave and Pay) Act 2023 – Full Legislation

📞 Need help updating your HR policies?

Contact Consensus HR today – your outsourced HR partner for clear, compliant, and people-first HR.

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🐦 Twitter / X
🔗 LinkedIn
📸 Instagram

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10 04 2025

👩‍👦 Siblings Day – 10th April 2025 | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, General, Health & Safety, Newsletter @sg1businessclub, #BTCstevenage, #worldsiblingsday, Business, Business Owners, BusinessBuzzStevenage, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

What Employers Can Learn About Team Dynamics from Sibling Relationships:

By Matthew Chilcott – Owner, Consensus HR

While Siblings Day is often celebrated as a personal occasion to honour the bonds between brothers and sisters, it also offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on how relationships at work mirror the dynamics we experience in family life.

At Consensus HR, we believe that healthy, respectful relationships in the workplace are the foundation of a strong, successful team.

How sibling-style dynamics show up at work:

Just like in families, workplace teams often include a mix of personalities – some more dominant, some more nurturing, and others who thrive quietly in the background. HR professionals regularly encounter situations where team conflict, communication breakdown, or favouritism can affect morale and productivity.

By recognising these patterns, businesses can take proactive steps to:

Promote equality and fairness
Encourage open communication
Support conflict resolution
Develop strong, inclusive workplace cultures

The HR perspective: Supporting team relationships:

At Consensus HR, we work with our clients to build tailored HR strategies that support healthy team dynamics, including:

Effective performance management systems
Training in emotional intelligence and leadership development
Clear grievance procedures and resolution pathways
Ongoing team development workshops

These tools help ensure that every team member – just like in a family – feels heard, valued, and respected.

A word from Matthew Chilcott, Owner:

“Siblings Day is a great reminder that every workplace is a network of relationships. Whether you’re managing a team of five or fifty, understanding how people interact is key to creating a thriving workplace. At Consensus HR, we support businesses to turn people problems into positive outcomes through practical, compliant, and people-focused HR solutions.”

Is your team dynamic working well?

If you’ve noticed team tensions, poor communication, or low morale, it might be time to reassess how your business supports working relationships. With the right HR policies and procedures, you can strengthen team cohesion and performance.

📞 Contact Consensus HR today to discuss how we can help support your team through professional and proactive HR support.

Follow us for more HR advice and updates:

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07 04 2025

World Health Day – 7th April 2025 | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, General, Health & Safety @sg1businessclub, #BTCstevenage, #worldhealthday, Business, Business Owners, BusinessBuzzStevenage, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

🌍 World Health Day – 7th April 2025

Supporting Employee Wellbeing at Work
By Matthew Chilcott – Owner, Consensus HR

Every year on 7th April, World Health Day is celebrated across the globe to raise awareness of important health issues. At Consensus HR, we believe this is a great reminder for businesses to reflect on how they support the health and wellbeing of their teams.

Why does employee health matter?

Healthy employees are happier, more productive, and more engaged. Looking after the physical and mental health of your team is not just the right thing to do – it’s also good for business. A strong approach to employee wellbeing helps to reduce absenteeism, improve morale, and build a positive workplace culture.

The role of Businesses, Managers & HR in promoting wellbeing:

As business professionals, we work with businesses to create and implement policies that support both the mental health and physical health of employees. This includes:

Providing access to Employee Assistance Programmes (EAPs)
Promoting flexible working arrangements
Conducting regular wellbeing check-ins
Ensuring managers are trained to spot signs of stress and burnout
Having clear, supportive absence management and occupational health procedures

Matthew Chilcott, Owner, says:

“World Health Day reminds us that our people are our most valuable asset. At Consensus HR, we work with companies to develop tailored HR solutions that support wellbeing and encourage a culture where health, in all its forms, is a priority. We help our clients reduce people problems before they become serious issues.”

A few ways to support health in your business today:

Encourage employees to take regular breaks
Promote open conversations about mental health
Offer healthy snacks in the workplace
Arrange walking meetings or lunchtime activities
Review and update your health and safety policies

Need help supporting your team’s wellbeing?

If you’re unsure where to start or want to improve your current approach, Consensus HR can help. We provide practical HR support and advice that aligns with current employment law and best practice.

📞 Contact us today to find out how we can help your business prioritise employee health and wellbeing.

Follow Consensus HR for more HR tips and insights:

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Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

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01 04 2025

Neurodiversity Conflicts Lead to Tribunal for 1 in 10 Organisations | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, Disciplinary & Grievance, Employment Law, General, Handbook, Health & Safety @sg1businessclub, #BTCstevenage, #hertfordshirebusinesses, #neurodiversity, #Stevenagebusineses, Business, Business Owners, BusinessBuzzStevenage, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, https://www.facebook.com/groups/stevenagebuzz/, Small Business, SME, SME's

Neurodiversity Conflicts Lead to Tribunal for 1 in 10 Organisations

By Matthew Chilcott, Owner – Consensus HR

Recent findings show that 1 in 10 UK organisations have experienced an employment tribunal due to neurodiversity-related conflicts, highlighting a pressing need for greater inclusivity and understanding in the workplace.

A report by Neurodiversity in Business (NiB), as published in People Management, revealed that a third of employers are unsure how to support neurodiverse individuals, while 65% of neurodivergent employees feel misunderstood or unsupported by their managers or organisations.

Understanding Neurodiversity in the Workplace

Neurodiversity refers to the natural variation in how people think, learn, and process information. This includes conditions such as:

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Dyslexia
Dyspraxia
Tourette Syndrome

Employers have a legal duty under the Equality Act 2010 to make reasonable adjustments for neurodivergent individuals. Failing to do so can lead to claims of discrimination or unfair dismissal.

The Legal and Cultural Implications for Employers

When organisations overlook neurodivergent needs, the consequences can include:

Discrimination and unfair dismissal tribunal claims
Financial penalties and reputational damage
Low morale and high employee turnover
Loss of talent due to non-inclusive practices

A notable 2023 case involved an autistic employee winning a discrimination claim after being unfairly dismissed due to the employer failing to adjust working practices appropriately.

How HR Can Improve Neurodiversity Inclusion

At Consensus HR, we support businesses by:

Reviewing HR policies to ensure legal compliance
Offering neurodiversity training to managers and teams
Implementing reasonable adjustments and tailored support plans
Enhancing recruitment and onboarding processes to be neuro-inclusive

Our goal is to create workplaces where all individuals can thrive, regardless of how their brains are wired.

👉 Learn more about our HR services

Comment from Matthew Chilcott – Owner of Consensus HR

“At Consensus HR, we see first-hand how employers can unknowingly fall short when supporting neurodivergent individuals. This latest data showing that 1 in 10 organisations have ended up at tribunal is a red flag. Neurodiversity is not a challenge to be avoided – it’s a strength to be embraced. With the right HR policies and open conversations, businesses can build inclusive teams that drive innovation and loyalty.”

– Matthew Chilcott, Owner – Consensus HR

Next Steps for Employers

To avoid legal risk and create an inclusive culture: ✅ Conduct internal audits on inclusion policies
✅ Provide neurodiversity awareness training
✅ Review recruitment and performance management processes
✅ Seek expert HR guidance when unsure

📥 Contact Consensus HR today for tailored support:

🌐 Visit our website
📧 Email: [email protected]
☎ Phone: 01438 310062

Connect with Consensus HR Online

Conclusion

As UK employment law continues to evolve and tribunals increasingly spotlight inclusion failures, businesses must act. Prioritising neurodiversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s a vital part of building a legally compliant and forward-thinking organisation.

If you’re unsure where to start, the team at Consensus HR is here to help. With our retained HR services, you gain expert, proactive support that puts people and performance first.

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

Click Here

Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

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20 03 2025

Health & Safety Update – | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, General, Health & Safety #consensushr, #Health&Safety, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

Manual handling at work: guidance on the law:

As an employer, you must protect your workers from the risks of manual handling injuries in the workplace.

You can find help with preventing these sort of risks in your workplace on our manual handling webpages.

We have a range of information and guidance for employers, including sections on assessing manual handling and training for workers.

There are also links to a variety of useful resources, which include our free-to-download publications:

Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations (LOLER):

:Make sure you comply with LOLER regulations and lift work equipment safely.

HSE’s website has guidance on the safe use of lifting equipment, which sets out what businesses should do to comply with LOLER. The webpages include:

an overview of LOLER
guidance on safe lifting by machines
how to thoroughly examine lifting equipment
the planning and organising of lifting operations

Steel company fined £100,000 for lifting activity failures:

A worker was crushed and suffered multiple rib fractures as well as internal injuries during this incident. HSE’s investigation found the company had failed to ensure that the lifting activity was properly planned by a competent person, or carried out in a safe manner.

You can get further information, and view a video of CCTV footage of the incident, at our press release: CCTV captures moment welder crushed at shipyard.

As an employer, you must protect your workers from the risks of manual handling injuries in the workplace.

You can find help with preventing these sort of risks in your workplace on our manual handling webpages.

We have a range of information and guidance for employers, including sections on assessing manual handling and training for workers.

There are also links to a variety of useful resources, which include our free-to-download publications:

Health & Safety Advice is provided by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) and our partner company.

Contact Us Now!

Tel: 01438 576750

: [email protected]

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11 03 2025

MS Awareness Week – Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, Employment Law, General, Health & Safety @sg1businessclub, #consensus hr, #consensushr, #invisibledisease, #MS, #multiplesclerosis, #networkinbeds, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

Supporting Employees with Multiple Sclerosis in the Workplace:

MS Awareness Week is an important time to raise awareness about Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and its impact on individuals, particularly in the workplace. At Consensus HR, we believe in fostering inclusive workplaces where employees with long-term health conditions are supported effectively.

This year, MS Awareness Week runs from 9^th – 15^th March, providing an opportunity for businesses to understand how they can create a more supportive, legally compliant, and productive working environment for employees affected by MS.

What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a lifelong condition affecting the central nervous system, impacting movement, vision, balance, and other functions. Symptoms vary from person to person, making it essential for employers to offer flexible and tailored support.

Legal Responsibilities for Employers

Under the Equality Act 2010, MS is classified as a disability from the moment of diagnosis. This means that employers must make reasonable adjustments to support employees with MS and prevent workplace discrimination.

Some reasonable adjustments may include:
✅ Flexible working arrangements – Adjusted hours or remote work options.
✅ Ergonomic workspace adaptations – Chairs, keyboards, or screen readers.
✅ Frequent rest breaks – To manage fatigue and prevent burnout.
✅ Awareness training – Educating teams about MS and how to support colleagues effectively.

How Business Owners, Managers & HR Can Help:

At Consensus HR, we support businesses in creating inclusive policies, providing training, and ensuring legal compliance when managing long-term health conditions like MS.

💡 HR Support for MS in the Workplace:

Policy Development – Ensure your sickness absence and reasonable adjustment policies are compliant.
Manager Training – Equip managers with the knowledge to support employees with MS.
Employee Wellbeing – Implement strategies that promote a supportive culture.

💬 Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR, says:
“MS Awareness Week is a great reminder for businesses to assess their workplace inclusivity. Ensuring that employees with MS have the right support in place is not just a legal obligation—it’s about creating a culture where everyone can thrive. At Consensus HR, we help businesses implement HR strategies that make a real difference in employee wellbeing and productivity.”

Join the Conversation:

Let’s work together to create workplaces where individuals with MS and other long-term conditions can excel and feel valued.

🔗 Follow us on social media for more HR insights and advice:
👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/consensus-hr
👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ConsensusHR
👉 Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/ConsensusHR
👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ConsensusHR

📞 Call us: 01438 576750
📩 Email us: [email protected]
🌍 Website: https://www.consensushr.com

If you need HR support on managing workplace adjustments, compliance, or employee wellbeing, contact us today!

Let’s make every workplace fair, inclusive, and legally compliant.

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

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Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

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11 03 2025

Monthly HR blog Newsletter – February 2025 | Consensus HR, Herts, Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, Employment Law, General, Health & Safety, Newsletter @sg1businessclub, #consensus hr, #consensushr, #HRNewsletter, #monthlyblognewsletter, #networkinbeds, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

Welcome to Consensus HR’s monthly blog recap! In this edition, we will be revisiting some of the key discussions from our February 2025 blogs. Here’s a selection of topics we covered:

Employment Law Newsletter
Important Health & Safety Update
Tackling-illegal-working
Rare-disease-day
Autism in the Workplace in the UK

Thank you for joining us for this month’s recap. We hope these discussions provide valuable insights and actionable strategies for your HR practices. Stay tuned for more informative blogs in the coming months!

Employment Law Newsletter – February 2025:

In Brief:

The Employment Appeal Tribunal (EAT) has recently made significant rulings that affect employee rights in the workplace. First, the EAT clarified that an employee may be dismissed for a breakdown of trust and confidence, providing employers with a legal basis to terminate employment when this crucial relationship deteriorates. Secondly, the ruling confirmed that foster carers are eligible to bring claims before an Employment Tribunal, which is an important step for individuals in this role seeking employment protection rights. Lastly, a ruling established that consultants can be considered workers under the Employment Rights Act 1996 (ERA), granting them rights that were previously reserved for employees, such as protection against unfair dismissal and entitlement to statutory sick pay. These developments reflect the evolving landscape of employment law and emphasize the importance of understanding and adhering to the latest legal standards for both employers and employees.

To read the full blog,

CLICK HERE

Tackling Illegal Working:

The Home Office’s Immigration Enforcement teams have recently reported their most successful January in over half a decade, making significant strides in tackling illegal working across the UK. This marks a major part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to restore order to the immigration system through their “Plan for Change.”

Record-Breaking Enforcement Activity:

During January 2025, Immigration Enforcement teams visited 828 premises, a 48% increase in enforcement activity compared to the same month in 2024. These premises included a range of businesses, such as nail bars, convenience stores, restaurants, and car washes. In total, 609 arrests were made—an alarming 73% rise from the 352 arrests made in January 2024.

This surge in activity reflects the Home Office’s growing commitment to stamping out illegal working and exploitation. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper reinforced this message, stating, “The immigration rules must be respected and enforced. For far too long, employers have been able to take on and exploit illegal migrants, and too many people have been able to arrive and work illegally with no enforcement action ever taken… That’s why, as part of our Plan for Change, we are boosting enforcement to record levels.”

To read our full blog and Key Points

CLICK HERE

Important Health & Safety Update:

Managing Workplace Health & Safety: Key Updates and Best Practices:

Health and safety in the workplace is a critical priority for businesses, especially in industries where employees face significant risks. Recent data and case studies from the Health & Safety Executive (HSE) highlight the importance of proactive measures in protecting workers. Below, we’ve compiled essential guidance and updates to help you ensure a safe working environment.

In this Update:

Stay updated on workplace health & safety with essential guidelines on welfare, asbestos management, gas safety in maternity units, and risks of display wall mounts for children. Learn about legal duties and best practices to protect employees and maintain compliance.

Workplace health, safety and welfare
The duty to manage asbestos – are you responsible?
Guidance to protect those using gas and air safely in maternity units
Display wall mount risk of serious crushing or impact injury to children:

To read the full blog,

CLICK HERE

Rare Disease Day

Supporting Inclusivity in the Workplace:

📅 28th February marks Rare Disease Day, a global initiative to raise awareness of rare diseases and the challenges faced by those affected. At Consensus HR, we believe in fostering inclusive workplaces that support employees with rare conditions, ensuring they can thrive professionally while managing their health.

Why Rare Disease Awareness Matters in the Workplace:

A rare disease is defined in Europe as a condition affecting fewer than 1 in 2,000 people, yet collectively, over 300 million people worldwide live with a rare disease. Many of these individuals face difficulties in the workplace, from managing symptoms to accessing reasonable adjustments.

Employers have a duty to promote equality, make necessary workplace adjustments, and support employee wellbeing in compliance with the Equality Act 2010. A more inclusive workplace not only benefits employees but also strengthens business culture, retention, and productivity.

To read our full blog and Key Points

CLICK HERE

Autism in the Workplace in the UK:

Legal Obligations and Best Practices for Inclusion:

At Consensus HR, we understand that creating a diverse and inclusive workplace is not only the right thing to do—it’s essential for fostering innovation and success. In the UK, supporting employees on the autism spectrum is guided by robust legal frameworks and best practice strategies. This blog explores the legal requirements and practical steps your organisation can take to ensure that your workplace is both compliant and truly inclusive.

Understanding Autism in the UK Workplace:

Autism is a lifelong condition that affects how individuals communicate, behave, and interact socially. Many people on the autism spectrum bring unique strengths such as exceptional attention to detail, innovative problem-solving skills, and a strong ability to focus on complex tasks. Recognising these attributes while acknowledging individual challenges is key to developing effective support systems in the workplace.

To read the full blog,

CLICK HERE

Wow! Two Awards for our HR Service 2025 /26 :

We are thrilled to announce that Consensus HR has once again been honoured with the London & South East Prestige Awards 2025-2026 and the E2 Media Awards for Excellence 2025! These accolades mark the latest in a series of recognitions for our commitment to HR excellence. Previously, we were proud recipients of the UK Enterprise Awards, being named HR Consultancy of the Year 2023 – Home Counties.

consensushr.com

Matthew Chilcott, Owner of Consensus HR, expressed his gratitude, stating: “Receiving these awards multiple times is a testament to our team’s unwavering dedication to providing professional, pragmatic, and tailored HR solutions. We are deeply committed to supporting businesses across the region, ensuring they achieve the best from their teams while maintaining legal compliance.”

To read our full blog and Key Points

CLICK HERE

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

Click Here

Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

Your Outsourced Human Resources (HR) Department.

For further information on any of the HR subjects we provide, please click the heading below:

26 02 2025

Important Health & Safety Update | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, General, Health & Safety @consensushr, #bedfordshirebusiness, #consensus hr, #Health&Safety, #hertfordshirebusinesses, #hse, #outsourcedHR, #sme, #stevenagebusinesses, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business

Managing Workplace Health & Safety: Key Updates and Best Practices:

In this Update:

Workplace health, safety and welfare
The duty to manage asbestos – are you responsible?
Guidance to protect those using gas and air safely in maternity units
Display wall mount risk of serious crushing or impact injury to children:

Workplace health, safety and welfare:

There are a number of legal duties which all businesses must comply with on workplace health, safety and welfare.

Our workplace, health, safety and welfare webpages bring together general guidance for all workplaces to follow.

This includes the law on workplace safety, which covers a wide range of basic health, safety and welfare issues.

There is also guidance on a variety of topics and legal duties that all businesses should follow, including:

The duty to manage asbestos – are you responsible?

HSE’s ‘Asbestos – Your Duty’ campaign is aimed at those responsible for managing asbestos in buildings (dutyholders).

The dutyholder could be the building owner, the landlord for the premises, the business owner, or the person or organisation with clear responsibility for the building’s maintenance or repair.

HSE’s duty to manage asbestos in buildings webpages provide dutyholders with a range of resources:

download the asbestos management plan template
download the asbestos register template for your buildings
watch our duty to manage asbestos video

Guidance to protect those using gas and air safely in maternity units:

HSE’s recently published guidance is aimed at those in maternity units who are responsible for preventing harm from high levels of exposure to nitrous oxide (gas and air).

This guidance has been developed by HSE together with maternity specialists in the NHS. It is also relevant for professionals working in other parts of the healthcare sector.

Find out more at HSE’s website by reading our:

guidance: Using nitrous oxide (gas and air) safely in maternity units
press release: Protecting Britain’s midwives from excessive nitrous oxide exposure

Display wall mount risk of serious crushing or impact injury to children:

The Office of Product Safety Standards (OPSS) has issued a product safety report regarding the Conen Motorised Display Wall Mount (SCETAW 2407-0111).

The product is used to adjust interactive display panels presents a serious risk of injuries as the mount may detach from the wall, causing the equipment to fall forwards. There is a risk of:

serious crushing or impact injury to children which may arise from the equipment detaching from the wall and falling forward
serious crushing injury to children between the bottom edge of the display screen and any fixed objects

View the product safety report for the Conen Motorised Display Wall Mount on GOV.UK

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

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Are you concerned about keeping your business up to date with Employment Law changes?

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For further information on any of the HR subjects we provide, please click the heading below:

29 01 2025

Important Health & Safety Update | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott General, Health & Safety #consensushr, #Health&Safety, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

Managing Workplace Health & Safety: Key Updates and Best Practices

Managing the Risk of Working at Height:

Falls from height remain the most common cause of workplace fatalities, with 50 fatal accidents recorded in 2023-2024. Considering these risks, it’s vital to implement sensible and proportionate measures to control hazards when working at height.

Key Resources:

Step-by-Step Guide to Controlling Risks When Working at Height: A comprehensive resource for managing risks effectively.
Scaffold Checklist: This guide explains when a scaffold design is necessary and the training required for erecting, inspecting, and supervising scaffolds.
Visit the HSE Working at Height webpage for further details and resources.

Case Study: Farming Company Fined After Fall from Height

A farming company was recently fined £133,000 after a man was seriously injured when he fell through a barn roof. The investigation revealed:

Lack of safety measures: No barriers, netting, or access equipment were in place.
Failure to ensure safety: The company did not take appropriate precautions to protect workers or others affected by the work.

Read the full press release here: Company fined after barn roof fall.

Protecting Workers from Hand-Arm Vibration (HAVS):

In 2023, 215 new cases of hand-arm vibration syndrome (HAVS) were recorded in Great Britain. To prevent this condition, it is essential to manage workers’ exposure to vibration tools effectively.

Key Tools and Guidance:

Hand-Arm Vibration Calculator: A tool to help calculate vibration exposure.
HSE Guidance on HAVS: Detailed advice on preventing hand-arm vibration syndrome.

Case Study: Council Fined for Exposing Workers to Risks:

A Council was fined £60,000 following an investigation that revealed workers were exposed to risks from vibrating tools. Learn more here: Council fined after workers exposed to risks.

Upcoming Training Opportunity:

HSE is hosting a one-day course on hand-arm vibration management on Tuesday, 4 March 2025, at their Science and Research Centre in Buxton. Find out more and register here: Hand-Arm Vibration: Management in the Workplace.

Avoiding Danger from Underground Services:

Working near underground services poses significant risks. HSE’s publication, Avoiding Danger from Underground Services (HSG47), provides essential guidance for:

Planning the work.
Locating and identifying buried services.
Safe excavation practices.

This resource is invaluable for anyone involved in commissioning, managing, or performing work near underground utilities. Download your free copy or purchase the book here.

Why Proactive Health & Safety Management Matters:

Recent enforcement cases, such as the farming company fined for a fall from height or the Council penalised for vibration risks, demonstrate the severe consequences of neglecting workplace safety. Ensuring compliance with HSE standards not only protects employees but also shields businesses from legal and financial repercussions.

Consensus HR with its Health & Safety partner is here to support you in navigating complex health and safety requirements. Whether it’s drafting risk assessments, providing training, or ensuring compliance, our team is dedicated to helping you create a safer workplace.

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18 12 2024

Important Health & Safety Update | Consensus HR in Herts & Beds

Matthew Chilcott Blog, General, Health & Safety @sg1businessclub, #consensus hr, #consensushr, #Health&Safety, #networkinbeds, #outsourcedemploymentlaw, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, outsourcedHR, Small Business, SME, SME's

Health & Safety Update.

The Health & Safety Executive (HSE) has recently issued an update highlighting the critical importance of minimizing manual handling risks in the workplace. This follows a tragic incident where a worker lost a leg due to unsafe practices, resulting in a £400,000 fine for the employer. This case underscores the need for robust health and safety measures to protect employees and avoid severe legal and financial repercussions.

At Consensus HR, we are committed to ensuring your business stays compliant with HSE regulations while safeguarding your team. If you need guidance on assessing and mitigating manual handling risks, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Minimise manual handling risks for workers this festive season:

Christmas is nearly upon us and it can be a demanding time for those working throughout the festive season.

The run-up to Christmas can be especially busy for those who work in haulage and distribution.

Workers in this industry are vulnerable to the risk of musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) injuries from hazardous manual handling. This can include:

people lifting heavy parcels around warehouses
delivery drivers moving products across the country

Our step-by-step guide to manual handling at work should help you minimise these risks.

We also have advice for users and suppliers of agency, or temporary workers, as many of these are specifically employed for the festive period.

HSE has launched a new MSD body mapping tool:

The body mapping tool will help workers report and discuss any musculoskeletal aches or pains that may be caused or made worse by work activities.

Firm fined £400,000 after worker loses leg

A wood panelling company has been fined following an incident where a worker suffered a life-changing injury at its factory.

The injury was sustained when a pack of waste MDF sheets (weighing around 350kg) fell from a trailer and landed on the worker’s left leg, which then had to be amputated below the knee.

HSE’s investigation found there was no suitable risk assessment or system of work in place specifically relating to the risks associated with the stacking, movement and loading of waste MDF sheets.

Read more in our press release: wood panelling firm fined £400,000 after injured worker loses leg.

You can visit our news centre for more on recent enforcement cases, which include:

£300,000 fine for company after explosion seriously injures 2 workers

To view more about our range of HR & Employment Law Services

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17 12 2024

Week 6: Supporting Mental Health and Well-being | Consensus HR in Herts

Matthew Chilcott Blog, Employment Law, General, Health & Safety @sg1businessclub, #consensushr, #hertfordshirebusinesses, #mentalhealth, #networkinbeds, #stevenagebusiness, Business, Business Owners, HR, HR Advice, HR Consultant, HR Consultants, HR Support, Small Business, SME, SME's

Welcome to Our 12-Week HR Essentials Blog Series for Business Owners and Managers – Week 6:

At Consensus HR, we know that effective HR management is key to creating a productive, compliant, and supportive workplace. Over the next 12 weeks, we’re providing business owners and managers with practical insights into different aspects of HR—from recruitment and onboarding to performance management, mental health support, and legal compliance.

Each weekly blog offers actionable advice to help you strengthen your HR practices, minimise risks, and support your team’s growth and well-being. Join us on this journey as we explore how thoughtful HR can positively impact your business and create a thriving, engaged team.

Week Six of Twelve

Week 6: Supporting Mental Health and Well-being in the Workplace

Overview:

Prioritising mental health in the workplace creates a more resilient, engaged workforce and can significantly reduce absenteeism and turnover.

Key Points:

Creating a Supportive Environment: Openly discuss mental health, provide resources, and encourage employees to seek support when needed.
Promoting Work-Life Balance: Encourage reasonable working hours, flexible scheduling, and time off to prevent burnout and support well-being.
Providing Mental Health Resources: Offer access to mental health support, such as employee assistance programs (EAPs) or counselling services.
Training for Managers: Equip managers with training on recognising signs of mental health struggles and providing appropriate support.

Here are our previous weeks blogs:

Week 5 – Employee Performance Management: Best Practices
Week 4 – Developing a Positive Company Culture
Week 3 – Onboarding New Hires
Week 2 – Effective Recruitment Strategies
Week 1 – Welcome to our 12 week HR Essentials

At Consensus HR, We’re Here to Help:

Managing HR can feel complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. If you have questions about this week’s topic or need tailored HR support for your business, our team is ready to help you create a productive, compliant, and supportive workplace. For more information, visit our website at www.consensushr.com or get in touch with us directly. Let’s work together to make HR a strong asset for your business.

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Your team is your greatest asset. Support them with professional HR services from Consensus HR. Learn more here!

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Week 5: Employee Performance Management | Consensus HR in Herts

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