HR Compliance Starter Pack template

1. ESSENTIAL HR POLICY CHECKLIST

Core Policies (Legally Required / High Priority)

• Disciplinary Policy
• Grievance Policy
• Health and Safety Policy
• Data Protection (GDPR) Policy
• Equal Opportunities / EDI Policy
• Flexible Working Policy
• Family Leave Policies (Maternity, Paternity, Adoption, Shared Parental Leave)

Operational Policies

• Sickness Absence Management
• Annual Leave Policy
• Remote / Hybrid Working Policy
• Performance Management Policy
• Probation Policy
• Whistleblowing Policy

Behaviour and Culture Policies

• Code of Conduct
• Anti-Harassment and Bullying Policy
• Social Media Policy
• Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement

Good Practice Additions

• Menopause Policy
• Mental Health and Wellbeing Policy
• Learning and Development Policy
• Expenses Policy

Tip: Ensure all policies are regularly reviewed (at least annually) and communicated clearly to employees.

2. HR RISK ASSESSMENT

Purpose
To systematically identify, assess, and mitigate HR-related risks. This checklist can be used as a working document to audit compliance and track actions.

How to Use This

• Complete quarterly or as part of an annual HR audit
• Assign clear ownership for each risk area
• Prioritise high-risk items for immediate action
• Track progress and evidence improvements over time

3. EMPLOYEE MANAGEMENT GUIDE

Recruitment and Onboarding

• Use structured job descriptions and fair selection processes
• Carry out right to work checks
• Provide written contracts on or before day one
• Implement a clear onboarding plan

Day-to-Day Management

• Set clear expectations and objectives
• Hold regular 1:1 meetings
• Document key conversations
• Address issues early and informally where possible

Performance Management

• Use probation periods effectively
• Set measurable goals
• Provide continuous feedback
• Escalate to formal processes where required

Managing Absence

• Track absence consistently
• Conduct return-to-work meetings
• Identify patterns (e.g. Bradford Factor)
• Seek medical advice where appropriate

Employee Relations

• Follow fair and consistent processes
• Ensure employees have the right to be accompanied
• Keep accurate records of all formal action

Leavers and Offboarding

• Conduct exit interviews
• Ensure final pay and holiday are accurate
• Revoke system access promptly
• Capture lessons learned

Manager Essentials

• Understand key policies
• Apply procedures consistently
• Seek HR advice early
• Maintain confidentiality

Tip: Strong line manager capability is one of the biggest drivers of HR compliance and employee experience.

NEXT STEPS

• Audit your current policies against the checklist
• Complete an HR risk assessment
• Train managers on the employee management guide
• Set a 12-month HR compliance review plan