Business & Economy
Tees Valley experts team up to stop local businesses falling into ‘Uber trap’
November 9, 2016
This status as a ‘Worker’ gives the drivers access to the National Living Wage, paid leave and potentially other benefits unavailable to the genuinely self-employed individual. Hermes and Deliveroo are also set for similarly heavy scrutiny by the Employment Tribunal, which could have a massive impact upon their business models.
At a free business breakfast, Theresa Carling, Associate Solicitor at Tilly Bailey & Irvine, and George Hardey, Director of Tax at Waltons Clark Whitehill, will discuss the legal and tax implications of classifying individuals as workers, employees or self-employed.
The status of individuals within a business and the payment of subcontractors can be investigated by HMRC and is often a hot topic as part of an Employer Compliance Review, often known as a PAYE investigation, which can result in significant unexpected tax liabilities and a monetary penalty for non-compliant businesses.
George Hardey said: “The proper classification of workers and employees is a crucially important issue for businesses in the Tees Valley, both in terms of proper employment and accounting practices, and business ethics.
“It is particularly concerning that through good intentions but a lack of knowledge, local businesses run by ethical people could be accused of wrongly classifying workers. The best way to avoid this is to seek expert advice.”
Theresa Carling said: “Employment law can be a minefield for people running small and medium sized businesses, and the penalties for making mistakes can be harsh. We’re looking forward to speaking to local business people about these issues and offering the benefits of our expertise.”
The event is being held at 08:30 on Thursday 1st December, at Waltons Clark Whitehill’s offices, in Maritime House on Hartlepool’s marina. Free tickets can be reserved by contacting Shirley Blackwood on 01429 234 414, or emailing her at [email protected].