The short answer
A useful employee handbook explains how employment policies work in practice. It commonly covers conduct, disciplinary and grievance procedures, equality and harassment, sickness, annual and family leave, flexible working, health and safety, data protection, IT and communications, expenses and reporting concerns. Clearly distinguish contractual terms from non-contractual policies.
What employers need to know
- Match policies to the real organisation, responsibilities and reporting routes.
- State whether the handbook and individual policies are contractual.
- Include legally relevant processes and recommended operational policies.
- Make the handbook accessible and train managers to apply it consistently.
- Review it after legal, organisational or technology changes.
A practical process
Map mandatory information
Check written particulars and legal duties before deciding what sits in the contract or handbook.
Prioritise core policies
Cover conduct, concerns, equality, leave, sickness, flexible working, safety and data.
Assign responsibilities
Name practical reporting routes and decision-makers rather than using generic wording.
Launch and maintain
Consult where appropriate, record acknowledgement and review the handbook regularly.
Example
A policy telling employees to report harassment to ‘HR’ is unusable if the business has no HR department; it should name a real alternative contact.
When to take advice
Changing a contractual handbook provision may require employee agreement. Take advice before altering established terms.
Frequently asked questions
Is an employee handbook legally required?
A single handbook is not generally mandatory, but employers must provide specific written particulars and comply with various legal duties and procedures.
Should the handbook be contractual?
Usually only selected terms should be contractual. Clearly label the status and obtain advice on existing wording.
Official and primary sources
General information for employers in Great Britain, not legal advice. Check current official guidance and obtain advice for your circumstances.