NEWS & EVENTS

The Governments decision to not give employees in firms of less than 250 employees the right to request time off for training sends a mixed message to regional businesses according to local employment law specialists Roythornes Solicitors.

Under measures passed by the former Labour Government, employees of smaller firms would have had the same rights as those of larger firms when it comes to requesting time off for training.  But after a consultation undertaken by the coalition Government it was clear that the majority of smaller firms did not want the extension and so it has been put on hold.

Speaking about the announcement, Phil Cookson of Roythornes said:

"This is good news for smaller firms as without a dedicated HR function, many would have found it difficult to administer and assess these requests on an equal and fair basis. However for employees of these firms it means they may have to work harder to get time off for training, although hopefully enlightened firms will see staff training as an investment and continue to offer opportunities."