The big freeze continues to dominate the headlines, with snow and ice causing havoc for employers and their staff across the UK.
Our story on the Personnel Today website gives a snapshot of how some HR directors in the worst affected areas coped with the extreme conditions. Once again it demonstrates the resourcefulness and quick-thinking of HR teams to keep organisations up and running and provide services for some of the most vulnerable in society.
From one freeze to another; the CIPD's call for a freeze in the national minimum wage for young workers. The institute argues that the recession has had a far greater impact on young people than other age groups - the unemployment figures bear this out - and it is important to avoid making this group of workers less attractive to employers.
The proposal has yet to be ruled out by the government; the Low Pay
Commission, which advises ministers on rates for the coming year, will
make its recommendations on changes for 2010 at the end of next month.
These would then come into force from 1 October, by which time the
economy will hopefully have seen some consistent growth.
The move seems unlikely, perhaps a more realistic prospect is a NMW freeze for all age groups to try and stimulate employment and support employers in keeping staff.
Whatever happens, youth unemployment will be one of the tough challenges for the next government to tackle following the forthcoming general election. Employers will be looking on with interest.
The move seems unlikely, perhaps a more realistic prospect is a NMW freeze for all age groups to try and stimulate employment and support employers in keeping staff.
Whatever happens, youth unemployment will be one of the tough challenges for the next government to tackle following the forthcoming general election. Employers will be looking on with interest.
