Episode overview
Mel Page joins James to discuss her role in dealing with urgent HR matters and talks about how SME’s can prepare themselves for these business threats. Mel also talks through how SME’s should best structure their HR affairs and her top tips so businesses are protected from claims and potential financial exposure is kept to a minimum.
Episode summary
In this episode of Summing Up, Mel Page joins James Shipp to discuss how businesses can effectively manage and prepare for HR emergencies. Drawing on her experience handling urgent workplace issues, Mel explores some of the most common HR challenges faced by SMEs and explains the steps employers can take to minimise risk and respond confidently when problems arise.
The conversation also covers the importance of establishing robust HR processes, maintaining compliance, and ensuring businesses are protected from employment related claims. Mel shares practical advice and preventative measures that can help organisations reduce financial exposure and create a stronger foundation for managing people related issues.
Key takeaways
SMEs should be prepared for unexpected HR issues and workplace disputes.
Strong HR processes can help reduce business risk and financial exposure.
Early action is often key when dealing with HR emergencies.
Clear policies and procedures support compliance and consistency.
Proper HR planning can help protect businesses from costly claims.
Regular reviews of HR practices can strengthen workplace resilience.
Chapters
00:00 – Introduction
00:50 – Handling urgent HR inquiries and emergencies
02:32 – Supporting disciplinary meetings and investigations
03:22 – Ad hoc support versus monthly retainers
05:03 – Addressing employee issues early
06:57 – Mitigating employment tribunal risks
07:36 – Laying compliance groundwork and drafting policies
09:52 – Managing restructures, redundancies, and TUPE
12:58 – Redundancy timelines and consultations
13:31 – Recruitment, retention, and benchmarking benefits
15:32 – Popular perks, salary sacrifice, and hybrid working
17:05 – Quick queries and upcoming employment law changes
18:50 – Summary
Guest bio
Mel Page is HR People Lead and Consultant at Lovewell Blake, providing expert support on employee relations, HR compliance and workplace issues