Employment Law Help! Sheet

Volunteer Development Agency Small Logo

Employing staff is a big responsibility! The Management Committee, as the employer, must ensure that the organisation’s policies and practices are compliant with relevant legislation, are kept up to date, and its employment practices are at an acceptable standard. This helps to contribute to your organisation’s overall effectiveness.


Remember! As an employer, you need to be aware of legislation, which usually sets minimum standards for areas such as:

  • Terms and conditions of employment
  • Pensions
  • Annual leave
  • Redundancy
  • Dependant leave
  • Statutory sick pay
  • Discipline and grievance
  • Termination of employment
  • Equal opportunities
  • Maternity/parental Leave
  • Equal pay
  • National minimum wage
  • Health and safety
  • Working time regulations
  • Recruitment
  • Handling dismissals

‘One-stop shop’ for Employment Information:Try the following sources for information on employment law and practice:Highly recommended:Labour Relations Agency - provides free training and downloadable resources on employment areas. Tel: 028 9032 1442. Website: www.lra.org.ukAlso useful:Department for Employment and Learning – provides downloadable information on employment rights and practice. Website: www.delni.gov.ukDepartment of Trade and Industry - provides downloadable information on most aspects of employment practice and relations. Website: www.dti.gov.uk/erOnline NI – under its “employment” section, it provides a range of useful guidance and key contacts. Website: www.onlineni.net

Where else can I go for information?

Click here for who to contact on specific aspects of employment law.

A Guide to Good Employment (NICVA)



View all News