In our experience many small and medium sized businesses recognise that there are problems that need tackling but lack either the time or the resources to do this. You may not be able to afford the luxury of a professional HR Manager so plan to do things yourself, but somehow it never happens.

Yet failing to tackle matters such as under-performance, persistent absenteeism, or even something as simple as making sure managers and supervisors are confident in dealing with their staff can have very expensive consequences.

If your managers can't handle grievance and disciplinary procedures confidently you are vunerable to claims even if tackling the underlying issue was justified. Leaving a poorly performing employee to continue delivering substandard work can cost you valuable business. And that employee who has been on long-term sickness for the last six months is certainly costing you far more than their sick pay.

LCF HR is headed by Elizabeth Henry. To find out how the department and its services can help you, use the links on the left or contact her on 01274 848800 or email ehenry@lcf.co.uk