ACAS launches free online learning to help businesses set up employment contracts in the workplace

Acas has developed a free online learning package to help businesses and organisations understand and put together contracts of employment in the workplace.

All employers should provide employees with a written statement of employment but how and what should be included can often lead to confusion. Acas’ online learning has been developed using all the knowledge and experience gained through 30 years of dealing with employment relations.

The course covers topics such as:

* about contracts of employment;
* about written statements;
* varying a contract of employment;
* understanding contractual issues;
* your employee’s rights on pay.

The course also defines what a contract of employment is and looks at understanding contractual issues. Users can revisit the website at any time for practical advice and information.

In 2003 Acas received 8,271 applications to employment tribunals relating to breach of contract.

Acas’ other online learning packages on Discipline and Grievances at work and Information and Consultation have attracted almost 5,000 users in the last two months.

John Taylor, Acas Chief Executive, said;

’It makes sense to get the employment contract right at the beginning as confusion could lead to misunderstandings, and possibly on to an employment tribunal. This online learning package will help employers to develop appropriate polices and procedures to get it right. Using Acas good practice will help stop problems developing in the first place.’