In summary, the Institute of Personnel and Development survey found that:

Awareness of the various aspects of the Regulations by name was high and most respondents felt well informed about them.

Three quarters of businesses felt that on balance the Regulations were ‘a good thing’.

Most felt that the Regulations have not yet affected their businesses very much. Over 75% anticipated being affected by them in the future, though most believe the effect will be slight. Around a third felt that the Regulations have caused their business difficulties.

Practically all businesses have taken at least some action to prepare for the Regulations. Over half have made changes to terms & conditions of employment. Over half have made changes to internal procedures. Small numbers have established ‘collective agreements’ with unions, more have established ‘workforce agreements’ direct with staff.

Businesses with 50-99 employees are:
o less aware of the details of the Regulations
o more likely to believe themselves exempt from elements of the Regulations
o less likely to anticipate being affected in the future.

Businesses in the financial & business services sector are:
o most well-informed about the Regulations
o least affected by them
o as likely as other businesses to have prepared for the Regulations but least likely to have taken action as a result of them.

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