Parental Bereavement Leave: In April 2020, a number of changes are due to come into force which will have an impact on all businesses. For example, there will be in force Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay and changes to IR35 legislation.
The government has confirmed that it will be introducing a right for parents to take a minimum of two weeks of Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay. The proposals currently offer bereaved parents the flexibility to take the leave and pay at times when they most need it, e.g. parents will have 56 weeks from their child’s bereavement to take the leave.
IR35: There are also changes to IR35 legislation. The burden currently lies on the contractor to decide whether IR35 applies and to account for the correct tax due. However, from 6 April 2020, every medium and large private sector business in the UK will become responsible for setting the IR35 tax status of the contract workers they engage.
Businesses may wish to start preparing for this now by reviewing the arrangements they have with their contractors. Businesses should also consider updating their policies and introducing their own, e.g. bereavement leave policy, if this is not in place already.
Sharmaine Nethercott, Employment Team
If you would like advice on any aspect of employment law or if you have any questions about the changes in law and would like our guidance, please contact The Beers Employment on 01752 246013 or e-mail info@beersllp.com