Employment

Whistleblower protection for Trustees, Office Holders and Volunteers?

There has been a very significant decision by the Employment Appeal Tribunal (the EAT). This could affect the role of trustees and office-holders in charities, including churches. It potentially means that trustees have protection as “whistleblowers”. It may mean that trustees would be entitled to other protections in the future – though that is less certain. … Read more …

Church leadership, ministry roles and occupational requirements

New guidance on sex and gender in the Equality Act 2010 When it comes to occupational requirements, the Equality Act 2010 forces church and Christian leaders to think carefully about job requirements and Christian employment. How does discrimination law affect biblical beliefs behind men-only church leadership roles? How does it affect biblical beliefs around sex … Read more …

Children raising hands in the air

Could your volunteers actually be workers?

Well-intentioned payments or gifts to volunteers can lead churches and charities into difficulty. Key takeaways Understand the legal distinctions: Know the difference between volunteers, workers, and employees. Be cautious with payments: Even well-intentioned payments or gifts can change a volunteer’s status. Use resources: Utilise resources such as our Volunteer Pack for guidance on maintaining volunteer … Read more …

A Church Legal Compliance Checklist

The Charity Commission. Employment law. Property Regulations. Data Protection. Sometimes complying with the law can seem complicated and burdensome to churches. Which policies and procedures do churches legally need? We’re here to help. We at Edward Connor Solicitors understand that churches want to be legally compliant as part of their service to Jesus and we … Read more …

Two lambs in a field

Your employment policies and procedures: time for a spring-clean?

Spring is certainly here with buds blooming and lambs leaping in the fields! As we often think about spring-cleaning our homes, could it be time for a spring-clean of our employment policies and procedures too? Changes in employment law this year Employment law is ever changing and evolving. This spring is no exception with an … Read more …

Changes to Employment Law in 2024

After a relatively quiet period regarding changes to employment law, we now have a “London Bus” situation, with a number turning up at once. Updated copies of the Employment Pack, Worker Pack and Voluntary Worker Pack, incorporating the changes, are available for purchase on our website. For those who are subscribed to our Premium service, … Read more …

Changes to holiday pay and carer’s leave in 2024

As we head into 2024 there are some important changes to holiday pay and leave entitlements coming into effect that we want you to be aware of. Changes to Holiday Pay The Government announced in 2023 their intention to allow “rolled up” holiday pay for some part-time employees and workers (those who work for periods … Read more …