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Staff Handbook: Introduction & General

Last updated: August 2025

Schedule 1: Introduction

The purpose of this handbook is to set out our rules and procedures in relation to your employment with us. The handbook does not form part of your contract of employment with us but it should be read in conjunction with your contract. We reserve the right to amend this handbook from time to time as required but without prejudice to your statutory and contractual rights. Please read this handbook carefully. If you have any queries in relation to anything contained in it please raise them with HR.

I confirm I have received and read the Company Handbook.

Signed: ………………………………………… Employee

Dated: ……………………………………………


Schedule 2: Using the Staff Handbook

This Staff Handbook sets out the main policies and procedures that you will need to be aware of while working for us. You should familiarise yourself with it and comply with it at all times.

The policies and procedures set out in this handbook apply to all staff unless otherwise indicated. They therefore apply to managers, officers, directors, employees, consultants, contractors, trainees, homeworkers, part-time and fixed-term employees, casual and agency staff and volunteers (collectively referred to as "staff" in this handbook).

Everyone should ensure that they take the time to read and understand the content of this handbook and act in accordance with its aims and objectives. Managers must ensure all staff understand and observe the standards of behaviour expected of them and take action when behaviour falls below those requirements.


Schedule 3: Personal Details, Home Address and Next of Kin

You are responsible for maintaining up-to-date details of your home address, next of kin and emergency contact telephone numbers. Please log in to BreatheHR and make any changes so that our records are kept up to date.

We will request this information when you start work and you should advise of any changes straight away. Information is held in confidence and used in accordance with our data protection policies.


Schedule 4: Dress Code

About This Policy

This policy does not form part of any employee's contract of employment and we may amend it at any time.

We encourage everyone to maintain an appropriate standard of dress and personal appearance at work. The purpose of our dress code is to establish basic guidelines on appropriate clothing and appearance at our workplace, so that we:

  • Promote a positive and professional image
  • Respect the needs of individuals from all cultures and religions
  • Make any adjustments that may be needed because of disability
  • Take account of health and safety requirements
  • Help staff and managers decide what clothing it is appropriate to wear to work

Managers are responsible for ensuring that this dress code is observed and that a common sense approach is taken to any issues that may arise. Any enquiries regarding the operation of our dress code (including whether an article of clothing is suitable to wear to work) should be made to HR.

Failure to comply with the dress code may result in action under our Disciplinary and Capability Procedure. We will review our dress code periodically to ensure that it reflects appropriate standards and continues to meet our needs.

Appearance

While working for us you represent us with clients and the public. Your appearance contributes to our reputation and the development of our business. It is important that you appear clean and smart at all times when at work, particularly when you may be in contact with clients, other business contacts or the general public.

Different departments may have specific clothing requirements, for example, because their work is customer-facing or raises particular health and safety concerns. It is important that you dress in a manner appropriate to your working environment and the type of work you do.

You should not wear casual, gym or beach wear to work. This includes:

  • Track suits, sweat-shirts, t-shirts or shorts
  • Combat trousers or jogging bottoms
  • Denim or leggings

Clothing should not be dirty, frayed or torn. Tops should not carry wording or pictures that might be offensive or cause damage to our reputation. It is inappropriate to wear cut-off shorts, crop tops, see-through material or clothing that exposes areas of the body normally covered at work. Footwear must be safe and clean and take account of health and safety considerations.