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Don't get caught out: Is my freelancer actually an employee?
Freelancers look like the perfect solution for small businesses.
But this seemingly simple arrangement can hide unexpected risks that could impact your business.
Sarah Cooper
Nov 292 min read


Supporting an employee through bereavement: what do you need to know?
When an employee is grieving having clear policies can be one less worry When an employee is grieving, you're managing compassion and business needs at the same time. Balancing support with keeping your business running isn't easy. But the right approach can protect your team and your company. Understanding your legal obligations The law provides some clear guidelines for supporting bereaved employees: Parents who lose a child under 18 (or experience a stillbirth aft
Sarah Cooper
Nov 252 min read


How to conduct lawful right to work checks
If you're hiring someone new, you must check that they have the legal right to work in the UK before they start. That applies to every role and every nationality. Skip it and you risk fines of up to £60,000, plus serious damage to your business and reputation. Get the complete step by step guide to lawful Right to Work checks Get in touch if you need some support with getting this process right internally.
Sarah Cooper
Nov 171 min read


HR Newsletter - November 2025
Stay informed with the Fluid HR & Coaching newsletter. Get expert HR advice, UK employment law updates and practical people management tips from trusted HR consultant Sarah Cooper. Designed for small and growing businesses, it helps you stay compliant, solve HR challenges and build a positive workplace culture with confidence and clarity.
Sarah Cooper
Nov 45 min read


Hidden legal risks when scaling
Growing your business feels amazing. More customers, more revenue, more people wanting to join your team. You're finally getting somewhere.
But growth brings some unexpected legal challenges along with it that weren't even on your radar when you started.
Those casual ways of doing things that worked perfectly with 3 people can cause real problems once you hit 10 or 15 employees.
Sarah Cooper
Oct 302 min read


The one step that invalidated this employer's right to work check
You can do everything you think is right and still get hit with a massive fine. That's exactly what happened to a fish and chip shop owner in Surrey.
They thought they'd covered all the bases. The person they hired had a National Insurance number, benefit paperwork and was already on PAYE with another employer. Everything looked legitimate.
But the Home Office disagreed and the business was fined £40,000.
Sarah Cooper
Oct 282 min read


What every small business owner needs to know about ADHD
More adults are getting ADHD diagnoses than ever before. That means someone in your business might have ADHD right now, whether you know it or not.
As a small business owner, understanding ADHD isn't just about being supportive. It's about unlocking potential you might not even realise exists in your team.
Sarah Cooper
Oct 212 min read


Menopause in the Workplace - A Business Owners Guide
Menopause is a normal life change and a natural part of our ageing process.
Yet, for some individuals it can be a hugely challenging time; one that significantly impacts their health, wellbeing and professional life.
Many women feel blindsided by their menopausal symptoms at work; it can disrupt their work and overall performance, and shatter their confidence.
Failing to adequately support your employees with their menopausal symptoms by refusing to make reasonable
Sarah Cooper
Oct 171 min read
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