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Are You Ready for Upcoming Changes to Employment Law?

​The landscape of UK employment law is evolving rapidly, with significant reforms on the horizon that could affect your business’s payroll, policies, and operational planning. From an increase in National Insurance contributions to sweeping changes introduced by the Employment Rights Bill, now is the time to prepare. Let’s explore these key changes, what they mean for your business, and the steps you can take to stay compliant and competitive. ​Key Changes on the Horizon Rising National Insurance Contributions Following the initial announcement in the 2024 Autumn Budget, a key reform is the scheduled increase in employers’ National Insurance (NI) contributions. Effective from April 2025, the NI rate will rise from 13.8% to 15%, while the threshold for liability will drop from £9,100 to £5,000 per annum. This change is expected to significantly increase business costs nationwide, with government estimates indicating it could generate an additional £25 billion annually to support public services and economic stability. (Source). These adjustments not only increase your payroll expenses but also necessitate a review of your cost structures and pricing strategies—especially if you operate in sectors with large numbers of low-wage workers. ​The Employment Rights Bill: What’s Changing? The Employment Rights Bill promises to be one of the most radical overhauls in recent decades, aiming to enhance workers’ rights significantly. Key proposals include: Day-One Unfair Dismissal Protection: Workers could gain the right to claim unfair dismissal from day one, although employers might still impose a probation period of up to nine months with a simplified dismissal process. Ban on Exploitative Practices: The Bill seeks to restrict practices such as “fire and rehire” and abusive zero‐hours contracts, ensuring employees have a more predictable and secure working environment. Enhanced Statutory Rights: Employees may soon enjoy day‐one access to statutory sick pay, parental leave, and flexible working requests, with improved protections against discriminatory practices. While many of these changes may not be implemented until 2026, it is essential to begin preparing now by reviewing your employment contracts and HR policies (Source). ​Preparing Your Business for Change In anticipation of these changes, here are some practical strategies to help you prepare:Review and Update HR PoliciesStart by auditing your current employment contracts and internal policies. Look for areas that might conflict with the new statutory rights—for example, your dismissal procedures, flexible working arrangements, and provisions in zero‐hours contracts. Updating these documents can help you avoid compliance issues when the changes come into force. Review And Refine Your Compensation StrategyFurther to the above, ensure that your compensation packages remain competitive even as wage floors increase. Consider non-monetary benefits—such as comprehensive health and wellbeing programmes and initiatives to foster a positive company culture—to help attract and retain staff.Update Payroll SystemsEnsure that your payroll software is equipped to handle the upcoming changes in NI rates and thresholds, as well as the increased National Minimum Wage rates. For instance, from April 2025, the National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over will rise from £11.44 to £12.21 per hour, while other age bands will see similarly significant increases. A timely update to your systems can help prevent calculation errors and reduce the risk of penalties.Engage with Legal and HR ExpertsGiven the complexity of the upcoming reforms, it might be wise to consult with legal experts who specialise in employment law. They can offer tailored advice on navigating changes in the Employment Rights Bill, ensuring your business stays compliant and can capitalise on new opportunities.Communicate with Your WorkforceChanges to employment law can significantly impact employee expectations and morale. Transparent communication about how these changes might affect their rights and your business policies can help maintain trust and improve overall workplace satisfaction.Plan For Potential Hiring ChallengesWith wage increases and added administrative burdens, some companies may face recruitment slowdowns. Adjust your hiring strategies to focus on retaining existing talent and attracting high-calibre candidates through enhanced benefits, career development opportunities, and a clear vision for how your company adapts to change.​Impact on Business Costs and Operations The cumulative effect of increased NI contributions and revised wage rates mean that many employers should expect a tangible rise in overall employment costs. While some of these costs may be passed on to employees through adjusted wage structures, businesses must carefully manage their operational budgets to maintain competitiveness. Investing in training and technology—such as more efficient payroll systems or digital HR management tools—could help offset some of these costs. Moreover, by creating a stable work environment that offers consistent job security, companies can improve employee retention, reduce turnover expenses, and boost productivity over the long term. ​Stay Informed and Get the Support You Need Keeping abreast of legislative updates is crucial. With ongoing consultations on the Employment Rights Bill and other reforms, changes may evolve over the coming months. By staying informed and engaging proactively with industry experts, you can position your business to adapt swiftly to new legal obligations. If you need further guidance on how these upcoming changes might affect your business or require assistance in updating your policies and systems, our team at Thrive is here to help. Get in touch for tailored advice and support to navigate these changes clearly and confidently.

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Easter Charity Drive: Thrive Group's Community Support image
Easter Charity Drive: Thrive Group's Community Support

​Each spring, Thrive Group embarks on a mission to spread joy through its cherished tradition—the Annual Easter Egg Collection. This heartwarming initiative, deeply embedded in the company’s history, continues to grow, bringing together clients, colleagues, and local businesses in a collective act of giving. This year, the community's generosity resulted in an impressive collection of 556 chocolate eggs! These delightful treats were donated to four remarkable local organisations: Julia’s House Children’s Hospice, Silverwood School, Stepping Stones and Willow Wood Hospice. Supporting Local Heroes This year, our Easter initiative supported four remarkable organisations, each making a significant impact within our community:Julia’s House Children’s Hospice Serving families across Dorset and Wiltshire, Julia’s House provides vital respite care and emotional support to children with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions. Their dedicated team offers personalised care at home, in the community, or at their hospices, ensuring families receive the support they need during challenging times. Silverwood School Located in Wiltshire, Silverwood School is a co-educational special school catering to children and young people aged 4 to 19 with complex needs and autistic spectrum disorders. The school is committed to providing an inclusive and supportive learning environment, helping each student achieve their full potential. Stepping Stones Stepping Stones is a Trowbridge-based charity supporting children from birth to five years old with special needs. Through tailored therapy and play-based learning, they help each child develop essential skills in a nurturing environment, working collaboratively with families and professionals to ensure individualised support. Willow Wood HospiceWillow Wood Hospice provides specialist palliative and end-of-life care to adults with life-limiting illnesses. Their holistic services encompass inpatient care, day services, symptom management, complementary therapies, dementia support, and bereavement counselling, all aimed at enhancing quality of life for patients and their families. ​A Community Effort Unquestionably, the success of this campaign is rooted in our community's support and wouldn't be possible without their generous contributions. We extend our heartfelt thanks to the following organisations (and more!) for their donations: ApetitoBakkavorCasa BellaKingstons Estate AgentsLyons SeafoodsSavencia Fromage and DairyMontgomery Charles Wealth ManagementForrester Sylvester Mackett SolicitorsWoods ValldataJames Briggs LtdADIYour kindness has made a significant impact, bringing smiles to many faces this Easter. Giving Back: A Core Value Charitable giving is more than a seasonal activity—it's a reflection of our core values. We believe in supporting our community and making a positive difference in the lives of others. The massive success of our Easter Egg Collection truly showcases the collective goodwill within our community. We look forward to continuing this tradition and finding new ways to give back to our community in the years to come.

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Are You Ready for Upcoming Changes to Employment Law? image
Are You Ready for Upcoming Changes to Employment Law?

​The landscape of UK employment law is evolving rapidly, with significant reforms on the horizon that could affect your business’s payroll, policies, and operational planning. From an increase in National Insurance contributions to sweeping changes introduced by the Employment Rights Bill, now is the time to prepare. Let’s explore these key changes, what they mean for your business, and the steps you can take to stay compliant and competitive. ​Key Changes on the Horizon Rising National Insurance Contributions Following the initial announcement in the 2024 Autumn Budget, a key reform is the scheduled increase in employers’ National Insurance (NI) contributions. Effective from April 2025, the NI rate will rise from 13.8% to 15%, while the threshold for liability will drop from £9,100 to £5,000 per annum. This change is expected to significantly increase business costs nationwide, with government estimates indicating it could generate an additional £25 billion annually to support public services and economic stability. (Source). These adjustments not only increase your payroll expenses but also necessitate a review of your cost structures and pricing strategies—especially if you operate in sectors with large numbers of low-wage workers. ​The Employment Rights Bill: What’s Changing? The Employment Rights Bill promises to be one of the most radical overhauls in recent decades, aiming to enhance workers’ rights significantly. Key proposals include: Day-One Unfair Dismissal Protection: Workers could gain the right to claim unfair dismissal from day one, although employers might still impose a probation period of up to nine months with a simplified dismissal process. Ban on Exploitative Practices: The Bill seeks to restrict practices such as “fire and rehire” and abusive zero‐hours contracts, ensuring employees have a more predictable and secure working environment. Enhanced Statutory Rights: Employees may soon enjoy day‐one access to statutory sick pay, parental leave, and flexible working requests, with improved protections against discriminatory practices. While many of these changes may not be implemented until 2026, it is essential to begin preparing now by reviewing your employment contracts and HR policies (Source). ​Preparing Your Business for Change In anticipation of these changes, here are some practical strategies to help you prepare:Review and Update HR PoliciesStart by auditing your current employment contracts and internal policies. Look for areas that might conflict with the new statutory rights—for example, your dismissal procedures, flexible working arrangements, and provisions in zero‐hours contracts. Updating these documents can help you avoid compliance issues when the changes come into force. Review And Refine Your Compensation StrategyFurther to the above, ensure that your compensation packages remain competitive even as wage floors increase. Consider non-monetary benefits—such as comprehensive health and wellbeing programmes and initiatives to foster a positive company culture—to help attract and retain staff.Update Payroll SystemsEnsure that your payroll software is equipped to handle the upcoming changes in NI rates and thresholds, as well as the increased National Minimum Wage rates. For instance, from April 2025, the National Living Wage for workers aged 21 and over will rise from £11.44 to £12.21 per hour, while other age bands will see similarly significant increases. A timely update to your systems can help prevent calculation errors and reduce the risk of penalties.Engage with Legal and HR ExpertsGiven the complexity of the upcoming reforms, it might be wise to consult with legal experts who specialise in employment law. They can offer tailored advice on navigating changes in the Employment Rights Bill, ensuring your business stays compliant and can capitalise on new opportunities.Communicate with Your WorkforceChanges to employment law can significantly impact employee expectations and morale. Transparent communication about how these changes might affect their rights and your business policies can help maintain trust and improve overall workplace satisfaction.Plan For Potential Hiring ChallengesWith wage increases and added administrative burdens, some companies may face recruitment slowdowns. Adjust your hiring strategies to focus on retaining existing talent and attracting high-calibre candidates through enhanced benefits, career development opportunities, and a clear vision for how your company adapts to change.​Impact on Business Costs and Operations The cumulative effect of increased NI contributions and revised wage rates mean that many employers should expect a tangible rise in overall employment costs. While some of these costs may be passed on to employees through adjusted wage structures, businesses must carefully manage their operational budgets to maintain competitiveness. Investing in training and technology—such as more efficient payroll systems or digital HR management tools—could help offset some of these costs. Moreover, by creating a stable work environment that offers consistent job security, companies can improve employee retention, reduce turnover expenses, and boost productivity over the long term. ​Stay Informed and Get the Support You Need Keeping abreast of legislative updates is crucial. With ongoing consultations on the Employment Rights Bill and other reforms, changes may evolve over the coming months. By staying informed and engaging proactively with industry experts, you can position your business to adapt swiftly to new legal obligations. If you need further guidance on how these upcoming changes might affect your business or require assistance in updating your policies and systems, our team at Thrive is here to help. Get in touch for tailored advice and support to navigate these changes clearly and confidently.

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Unlock Success Through Collaboration in 2025 image
Unlock Success Through Collaboration in 2025

​As we step into the New Year, there's a contagious buzz of excitement and ambition in the air. It's a time for fresh starts, big ideas, and renewed focus—making it the perfect moment to highlight another one of Thrive’s cornerstone values: Collaboration. Did you know that 85% of UK managers believe that effective teamwork is crucial for achieving better workplace outcomes? When people come together, sharing their expertise and pooling resources, the magic truly happens—far beyond what anyone could achieve alone.​A Fresh Start for Growth January isn't just about making resolutions; it's synonymous with goal-setting and strategic thinking for UK businesses. It’s the perfect opportunity to reflect on past successes, pinpoint areas for improvement, and set new objectives for the months ahead. And here's the secret sauce: Collaboration. Imagine fostering an environment where open communication flows freely, and diverse perspectives are not just welcomed but encouraged. This is where teams unlock innovative solutions and tackle challenges with greater ease. By embracing a collective approach, not only do we speed up progress, but we also build a resilient foundation for sustained growth throughout the year.​ Why Collaboration Pays Off Collaboration isn’t just a feel-good concept; it brings real, measurable benefits to the table:Boosted Engagement: According to the CIPD, employees who frequently collaborate across departments are 30% more likely to report higher engagement levels. When people feel their input is valued, their motivation to contribute skyrockets. Increased Profitability: Organisations with strong collaborative practices can see up to a 21% increase in profitability. Sharing knowledge and working toward shared goals streamlines decision-making and uncovers new growth opportunities. Enhanced Innovation: A study by the Federation of Small Businesses found that those prioritising partnerships and joint ventures are more likely to launch new products or services each year. When fresh perspectives collide, creativity soars, fueling sustainable growth.​Collaboration at Thrive At Thrive, our collaborative value underscores the importance of partnership and teamwork across the board. Whether we’re working with colleagues, clients, candidates, or suppliers, we believe joint efforts produce stronger, more enduring outcomes. Collaboration for us is about:Pooling Our Strengths: Each team member brings unique skills to the table, creating a powerful collective brain trust. Sharing Knowledge: We learn from one another and disseminate expertise quickly and efficiently. Supporting Each Other: We celebrate each other’s wins and unite to overcome challenges, both large and small.By nurturing these principles, we extend our positive impact beyond our organisation and into the communities we serve.​ Your Roadmap to a Collaborative 2025 If you’re looking to leverage collaboration as a driver for growth and opportunity this year, consider these strategies:Open Communication: Set up regular check-ins with your team and create transparent channels for feedback. Champion Diversity: Embrace the different perspectives each individual brings—diverse teams are more innovative. Align Objectives: Make sure everyone understands how their tasks fit into the bigger picture. Celebrate Shared Success: Recognise team efforts just as much as individual achievements to reinforce unity.​Looking Ahead The energy of a new year is the perfect backdrop for embracing collaborative values. Teamwork isn’t just a trend—it’s a powerful framework for lasting success. At Thrive, we’re excited to tap into this cooperative spirit as we move into 2025. Let’s make this year your most collaborative yet! Reach out to us today, and together, let’s unlock new levels of growth, innovation, and meaningful impact in the months to come. Find your closest branch here.

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