22/06/2010 by admin.

As of 6^th April 2010, Fit notes replaced the traditional Doctors’ Certificates.  There are reports that fake “fit notes” can be obtained via the Internet.  The website selling these documents state that “they should be used for entertainment purposes only”.  Employers need to carefully check that any “fit notes” received are authentic.

Written by our HR specialist Simone Greasley

Well done Simone finger on the pulse as always.

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22/06/2010 by Geoff.

The new Bribery Bill comes into operation on the 1^st October 2010, and it appears it will become an offence for a company not to stipulate that bribes should not be paid or taken.Therefore we need more paperwork, and proof of circulation to all employees. Can employees accept entertainment and/or hospitality, if so to what level and how often?What about gifts? Is a £20.00 bottle of wine acceptable once a year, what about a case at Christmas? 

Don’t think you can get away with it overseas either. Under the Anti-Terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001 - tips, inducements or bribery conducted by a UK company overseas is subject to the same criminal penalties as if the act were conducted in the UK. Perhaps now is a good time to update the company Code of Ethics and define what is acceptable and what is prohibited. 

Do you have one? Written by John Hill one of our finance experts.

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