In the UK, businesses are legally required to have certain policies and procedures in place. The specific policies that a business needs to have can depend on factors such as its size, the sector it operates in, and the activities it undertakes. Below we have listed some of the key policies that you are likely to need to have in place, or be preparing to develop.
Health and safety policy
Every business, regardless of its size, must have a health and safety policy. This policy outlines the company’s commitment to providing a safe and healthy working environment for employees, as well as visitors. It should identify hazards, specify safety procedures, and describe the responsibilities of employees and management. The Health and Safety Executive has a full guide on writing a Health and Safety Policy.
Equal opportunities and anti-discrimination policy
To promote fairness and prevent discrimination, businesses are legally required to have an equal opportunities and anti-discrimination policy. This policy should outline the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion and provide guidance on preventing discrimination based on factors such as gender, race, age, disability, religion, and sexual orientation. ACAS provide a template to help you get started.
Data Protection (including GDPR compliance)
If your business processes personal data, you must have a data protection policy and comply with the Data Protection Act, which incorporates the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This policy should explain how you handle personal data, the rights of data subjects, and your data protection procedures. The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has guidance on the principles and what they mean in practice.
Whistleblowing policy
A whistleblowing policy is required for businesses with 50 or more employees. It provides a framework for employees to report concerns about wrongdoing within the company while protecting them from retaliation. The Government has provided guidance on creating a whistleblowing policy and related issues.
Environmental policies
Depending on the nature of your business, you may be required to have environmental policies in place to address issues like waste management, energy efficiency, and pollution control. A broad guide to writing an environmental policy is available from NI Business Info.
Anti-bribery and corruption policy
Businesses may wish to establish an anti-bribery and corruption policy to comply with the UK Bribery Act 2010. This policy outlines the company’s stance on preventing bribery and corruption and may include procedures for reporting and addressing potential violations. Although it is not a legal requirement to have a bribery policy for your business, it can be useful to refer to in defence if bribery takes place within the business. The Government has a guidance document for commercial organisations about putting anti-bribery provisions in place.
Privacy and cookie policies
If your business operates a website or processes online data, you must have privacy and cookie policies that comply with data protection and privacy regulations. Openli provides a comprehensive overview of the requirements and how to implement it on your site.
Fire Safety Policy
Businesses are legally required to have a fire safety policy and conduct regular fire risk assessments. These policies help protect employees and visitors in case of fire. The Government has guidance available for those with legal responsibilities (such as business owners).
Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and the specific policies your business needs may vary depending on its size and the sector you operate in. You may wish to consult with legal and compliance experts to check your business is currently compliant. Be aware that regulations and legal requirements may change over time, so it’s important to stay informed and update your policies as needed.
Learn more
Articles
Work with the Growth Hub: Support for Social Enterprises
We are now procuring a series of specific business support programmes, as part of North Yorkshire Council’s SPF plans. This will include a programme of support for Social Enterprises.
Rural Business Support in North Yorkshire: How to Access Funding and Guidance
Rural businesses and farmers in North Yorkshire have access to a wealth of support and resources to help them thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.
Export Support Roadshows to drive business growth in North Yorkshire
Businesses in North Yorkshire are set to benefit from a series of Export Support Roadshows, designed to drive growth across the region.
Events
05th November 20247:00 pm - 9:00 pmFREE
Strive Live Start-up Incubator
Looking for start up support in York & North Yorkshire? Join this award-winning programme designed to help entrepreneurs.
05th November 20249:30 am - 12:00 pmFREE
Unlock Business Benefits through Sustainability
Looking to enhance sustainability and reduce costs in your business? Join our Business Sustainability Peer Networks and connect with fellow local business leaders to drive real change.
07th November 202410:00 am - 11:30 amFREE
7 November Webinar Series: Unlocking Commercial Potential: Strategic Tools and Insights for Business Growth
Join us for an in-depth exploration into commercialisation strategies designed to drive business success. This interactive session will delve into essential topics such as market analysis, customer profiling, and strategic planning techniques. You'll learn how to identify commercial opportunities, engage stakeholders, and create value for your customers, all while assessing the impact of these actions on your brand, both internally and externally.
Resources
Webinar Recording: How to create Engaging Content
As part of a six-part social media webinar series delivered by Caroline Wilson of Hot Toddi, this webinar will look at how to create engaging content.
Webinar Recording: Setting Your Social Media Objectives
As part of a six-part social media webinar series delivered by Caroline Wilson of Hot Toddi, this webinar looks at how setting objectives can support your business.
Webinar Recordings : Making the leap: are you ready to start a business?
If you think you're ready to start a business, check out this exciting webinar where we'll find out what it’s really like to take the leap. Hosted by the team who bring you the Strive Live Start-Up Incubator.