How we can help with HR policies and workplace advice
Our HR and employment law solicitors in London and across the South East regularly advise clients on:
- Drafting HR policies and procedures – preparing clear, compliant policies tailored to your business and workforce, ensuring consistency and fairness in decision-making.
- Employee handbooks – creating comprehensive handbooks that bring together policies, procedures, and expectations in one accessible document.
- Legally required policies – advising on mandatory policies such as disciplinary and grievance procedures, health and safety (where applicable), and written statements of employment particulars.
- Workplace conduct and culture policies – including equality, diversity, and anti-harassment policies to promote a fair and inclusive working environment.
- Data protection and privacy – ensuring your policies comply with GDPR and data protection obligations when handling employee information.
- Ongoing HR advice and support – providing day-to-day advice on workplace issues such as disciplinary matters, grievances, absence management, and performance concerns.
- Policy reviews and updates – ensuring your policies remain up-to-date in line with changes in employment law and best practice, reducing the risk of tribunal claims.
With offices throughout London and the South East, our HR lawyers provide practical and timely advice to support your organisation at every stage of the employment lifecycle.
What our clients have said about us?
Why choose Parfitt Cresswell for HR Policy and Workplace Advice support?
We offer a complimentary initial consultation
It’s a great way to understand your options, get to know us better and make a more informed decision on whether we are the firm for you.
Our fees are straightforward, transparent and honest
After your initial consultation, you will know what your costs are likely to be. Depending on your needs, it may be possible to provide a fixed fee and in circumstances where it is not, a clear estimate will be provided which will be kept under close review.
We are honest, genuine people with an assertive and confident edge
We know how to assertively achieve results and to promote a positive resolution. We do the right thing by you. Not just for today, but for the future too.
We are proud of our rankings and feedback
Our clients often describe our service as “professional,” “friendly,” “a pleasure to deal with,” “first-class,” and “would use again.” But don’t just take our word for it; read their reviews on the independent site, ReviewSolicitors, here.
We are fully authorised and regulated by the SRA
This means we adhere to the highest professional and ethical standards set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority. You can be confident that your matter is being handled with integrity, care and full accountability.
We make law accessible
We believe that transparency and understanding are key to a good working relationship. We will endeavour to keep you informed of the latest legal updates and policy changes, in clear terms and without the jargon.
Frequently Asked Questions
We know HR policies and workplace issues can be complex, particularly with evolving employment laws and compliance requirements. Here are some of the questions our HR solicitors in London and the South East are most often asked.
What are HR policies?
HR policies are formal documents that set out how an organisation manages its workforce, including employee rights, responsibilities, and workplace procedures.
They provide a clear framework for decision-making and help ensure consistency, fairness and legal compliance across the business.
Are HR policies legally required in the UK?
Some HR policies are required by law, while others are considered best practice.
Mandatory elements include a written statement of employment particulars, disciplinary and grievance procedures, and (in most cases) a health and safety policy.
Other policies, such as equality or anti-harassment policies, are not strictly required but are strongly recommended to reduce legal risk.
Why are HR policies important?
HR policies help employers manage staff consistently and fairly, while also ensuring compliance with employment law.
They reduce the risk of disputes and tribunal claims by clearly setting out expectations and procedures for handling workplace issues.
What policies should an employer typically have?
In addition to legally required policies, most employers should consider having policies covering:
- Equal opportunities and anti-discrimination;
- Bullying and harassment;
- Data protection and IT use;
- Sickness absence and leave; and
- Disciplinary and grievance procedures.
These policies help create a structured, fair, and compliant workplace environment.
Do HR policies form part of the employment contract?
Not usually. HR policies are often separate from the employment contract so they can be updated more easily as laws or business needs change.
However, some policies may be referred to within a contract, so it is important they are drafted carefully to avoid unintended legal consequences.
How often should HR policies be reviewed?
HR policies should be reviewed regularly to ensure they remain compliant with current legislation, and reflect how the business operates.
Many employers review policies annually, or when there are significant legal or organisational changes.
Can HR policies help prevent workplace disputes?
Yes. Clear, well-drafted policies provide employees with guidance on expected behaviour and outline procedures for resolving issues.
This can help prevent misunderstandings, and ensure that any disputes are handled fairly and consistently.
How can a solicitor help with HR policies?
A solicitor can draft bespoke HR policies tailored to your business, ensuring compliance with UK employment law.
They can also review existing policies, identify potential risks, and provide ongoing advice on applying policies in real workplace situations.
