Updates

Coronavirus Act 2020 – implications for adult social care

In the interests of prioritising scarce public resources, drastic powers were introduced in the Coronavirus Act 2020 (the Act) in respect of key duties under the Care Act 2014, the legislation which sets out local authorities’ duties in relation to assessing people’s needs and eligibility for publicly funded care and support. The Act’s provisions in relation to …
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Beware coronavirus fraud

Top tips for protecting your organisation from opportunistic scams For all of us, the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has been a time of dramatic, unprecedented change to the way we live and work. Sadly, the more things change, the more some things stay the same, and fraudsters have already begun to use the pandemic as an …
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Coronavirus and your organisation

As the coronavirus (Covid-19) situation gathers momentum, organisations nationwide are assessing how their operations will be affected. What is your duty towards employees and the people your organisation serves? What are the insurance implications? Should you cancel formal meetings and events? We’ve rounded up the key issues you need to consider. Coronavirus in the workplace: …
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Immigration guidance addressing the coronavirus outbreak

In the midst of the global disruption being caused by the outbreak of novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the Home Office has published new immigration guidance for those affected by travel restrictions to and from China. There has been no legislation passed and no new immigration rules have been announced. This likely reflects the fast-changing nature of …
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The importance of Safer Internet Day

Tuesday 11th February is Safer Internet Day. Going now for around 16 years, Safer Internet Day will be marked globally with the theme – Together for a Better Internet. Along with thousands of other organisations, Bates Wells has registered its support for this initiative. What is Safer Internet Day? It’s been said that if you …
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Employers facing post-Brexit uncertainty: Chetal Patel comments on Global Talent visa launch

In the run-up to the UK’s official exit from the European Union, Chetal Patel responded to the launch of the Global Talent visa with her thoughts on what recent developments in the field of immigration law mean for employers. Addressing the “pivotal” announcement of the new visa, Chetal makes the point that the development and …
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Jamie Huard blogs for Charity Finance on Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) policy

Prior to this year’s submission deadline, Jamie Huard has written an explainer for charitable companies detailing what is required of them under the Streamlined Energy and Carbon Reporting (SECR) policy. Following a summary of why the policy was introduced and what its possible benefits are, Jamie addresses some key questions often asked by charities about …
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BatesCast: UK immigration in the new normal

Navigating the UK immigration system can be a challenge in ordinary times. In the current climate, with many processes suspended and further changes on the horizon, Tim Barnden has been advising clients on managing in the new normal. In today’s episode, we discuss government concessions, continuing appeals, and the challenges faced by people stuck abroad …
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Adapting schools and colleges for social distancing – property law considerations

With the Government taking cautious steps to ease the coronavirus lockdown, schools are at the forefront of the plans, with the intended return of Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 on 1 June marking the first step of a gradual re-opening of the education sector. Beyond this first step; maintained schools, academies, further education colleges, …
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Adapting schools and colleges for social distancing – property law considerations

With the Government taking cautious steps to ease the coronavirus lockdown, schools are at the forefront of the plans, with the intended return of Reception, Year 1 and Year 6 on 1 June marking the first step of a gradual re-opening of the education sector. Beyond this first step; maintained schools, academies, further education colleges, …
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COVID-19 prompts calls for public inquiry

PPE supply. Handling of care homes. High proportion of deaths in the BAME population. Award of government contracts. These are just some of the issues which have led to calls for a public inquiry into the government’s response to COVID-19. Public inquiries can shed light on institutional failings and provide recommendations which, if implemented, pave …
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Coronavirus and the Impact Economy: what do you need to know?

In this week’s roundup, we examine how the evolving coronavirus pandemic is affecting the impact economy. We take a look at some key considerations for purposeful businesses and recipients of social investment, the duties of B Corporation directors, and operating with values and purpose. Webinars If you’re an impact-driven organisation, your approach during this challenging time …
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