Can you dismiss an employee for being drunk at work? | UK

Can you dismiss an employee for being drunk at work in the UK? Explore key employment law insights, including misconduct vs gross misconduct, ACAS fair procedure steps, Equality Act considerations, health and safety duties, and alternatives like EAP support. Practical HR guidance for business owners and managers, plus a real-world hypothetical scenario and how Emberscale’s outsourced services help.
Can you dismiss an employee for being drunk at work?

Wondering if you can dismiss an employee for being drunk at work? This in-depth post explores U.S. employment laws, including at-will rules, ADA considerations for alcoholism, company policy essentials, and safer alternatives like EAP referrals. Learn state variations, real-world steps, and how Emberscale’s HR outsourcing helps businesses handle these challenges compliantly and effectively—plus a hypothetical scenario for practical insights.
Employment Law Changes 2026 UK Insights

Stay ahead of the phased employment law reforms from the Employment Rights Act 2025, with most changes landing in 2026. This practical guide covers key 2026 updates – including day-one paternity and parental leave, statutory sick pay from the first day, stronger sexual harassment prevention duties, restrictions on fire and rehire, and extended tribunal time limits – plus upcoming 2027 reforms like a reduced unfair dismissal qualifying period, and shows how businesses can prepare effectively.
Where to Find UK-Based HR Consulting Firms Specialising in Compliance?

Navigate the April 2026 employment law overhaul with confidence. This definitive guide reveals where to find specialist UK HR consulting firms, explains the key changes from the Employment Rights Act 2025 – including the Fair Work Agency, day-one rights, and the new six-month unfair dismissal threshold – and shows why Emberscale’s full-service outsourcing is the smartest, most cost-effective way for businesses to become fully compliant and audit-ready.
Are Companies Required to Have an Employee Handbook?

Many UK employers wonder: are companies required to have an employee handbook? The legal answer is no, but the practical answer is a strong yes. This comprehensive guide explains the current law, upcoming 2026 changes, real-world risks of going without one, and why a clear handbook protects your business and supports your team. Includes practical examples and expert recommendations.
How to Calculate Employee Retention Rate

Learning how to calculate employee retention rate helps businesses measure workforce stability, reduce turnover costs, and make smarter people decisions. This guide explains the correct retention formula, provides real examples, highlights common mistakes, and explores benchmarks and strategies to improve retention in US organizations.
How to Manage Employees in a Small Business

Learn how to manage employees in a small business effectively with this comprehensive UK-focused guide. From legal essentials and fair recruitment to tackling unconscious bias, handling performance concerns, and boosting retention, discover proven strategies to build a motivated, compliant team—plus how expert outsourcing can lighten the load.
How to Dismiss an Employee for Poor Performance UK

Dismissing an employee for poor performance in the UK requires a fair and documented process to avoid costly tribunal claims. This comprehensive guide explains the legal steps—from early intervention and Performance Improvement Plans to formal warnings and dismissal—while highlighting common pitfalls and best practices under UK employment law.
Examples of Gross Misconduct

Introduction In the workplace, maintaining a professional environment is essential for productivity and morale. However, certain behaviours cross the line into serious territory. These are known as examples of gross misconduct. Understanding examples of gross misconduct at work can help employers and employees alike navigate tricky situations. At Emberscale, we specialise in outsourcing business solutions […]
How to Conduct a Welfare Meeting

Discover a comprehensive guide on how to conduct a welfare meeting effectively, from preparation and agenda crafting to empathetic techniques like “feel, felt, found.”
Explore hypothetical scenarios addressing personal challenges, missed targets, and mood changes, with actionable questions that drive real benefits.