eMentor. FAQs: Human Resources

1. Where can I get a copy of the NJC pay scales?

Download them by following this link: 2007-08 NJC payscales.

2. Must voluntary and community sector organisations use the NJC pay scales?

No, it is entirely up to the organisation. In the absence of a formal pay scale structure for the voluntary and community sector, organisations use the NJC pay scales or civil service pay scales.

3. A funded two year post is coming to an end. If my organisation secures further funding for the same post, do we have to readvertise it?

No, it is still considered to be the same job.

4. How do I work out redundancy payment for a staff post that is coming to an end.

Download the guide to Redundancy Payments from the Department for Employment and Learning. Or request a copy by phone from the publication order line 028 9025 7678.

5. What statutory holidays are staff entitled to?

Employees are entitled to a minimum of four weeks' paid leave per annum.

For more information go to

• A Guide to Good Employment, chapter five. NICVA
• NICVA Staff Handbook, section 3.

6. How much leave is a part time employee entitled to?

Their annual leave and public holiday leave is received on a pro rata basis.

For more information go to

• A Guide to Good Employment, chapter four. NICVA
• NICVA Staff Handbook, section 3

7. What is a contract and who is entitled one?

It is an agreement that an employer and an employee enter into, under which both have certain mutual obligations. The contract does not have to be written down (unless it is a contract of apprenticeship). The terms can be written, oral, implied or a mixture of all three. A contract comes into existence as soon as an employee starts work and this demonstrates that he or she accepts the job on the terms offered by the employer. Anyone employed by an organisation is entitled to a contract. There are different types of contracts depending on the employment situation. The main types are full time or part time (either permanent or temporary), fixed term or casual. An organisation would use a contract for services if a person is self employed or a consultant. The contract between employer and employee exists from the time the employee accepts an offer of work.

For more information

• Individual Employee Rights, Employee Rights Booklet Series. Department of Employment and Learning.
• A Guide to Good Employment, Chapter 3. NICVA

8. What is a Written Statement of Employment Particulars?

Within two months of the employment start date, all employees are by law entitled to a Written Statement of Employment Particulars. It does not necessarily cover every aspect of the contract, but will constitute important evidence of the principle terms and conditions.

For more information go to

• Written Statement of Employment Particulars, Employee Rights Booklet Series. Department of Employment and Learning.
• A Guide to Good Employment, Chapter 3. NICVA

9. What is the national minimum wage?

Since 1 October 2004 it has been £4.85 per hour for workers aged 22 years and older. A development rate of £4.10 per hour for - workers aged 18 - 21 years inclusive - workers aged 22 years and above, starting a new job with a new employer and doing accredited training- £3.00 per hour for all 16 year olds who are no longer of compulsory school age, and 17 year olds. Any wages in addition to the national minimum, and the amount of wages for workers who are not covered by the national minimum wage, depends on the worker's individual contract of employment.

For more information go to

• Inland Revenue