Questions on employees’ Covid vaccination status, self-isolation and testing continued to be popular during December.
Employers were also asking various questions about sickness absence and fit notes.
On 17 December 2021, to reduce pressure on GPs, the government introduced a temporary increase to the timeframe for employees to provide evidence for the purposes of statutory sick pay. Employers cannot require employees to produce a fit note within the first 28 days of absence.
The top 10 HR questions in December 2021:
1. Can employers use the NHS Covid Pass to check employees’ coronavirus status?
2. Can employers ask employees if they have had a coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination?
4. What is an employee’s holiday entitlement if an extra bank holiday is granted one year?
5. Can an employer require employees to be tested for coronavirus (COVID-19)?
6. Is an employer obliged to comply with the advice on a fit note?
9. Can an employer withdraw a job offer on receipt of a poor reference?
10.What is the companion’s role at a disciplinary or grievance hearing?