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10 Questions with Joe Goddard

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In this new monthly blog series, we talk to our staff at Eternal Engagements from all departments and deeply dive into their career highlights, personal inspirations and thoughts about the business, plus a few fun facts!

This month we meet with Joe Goddard, Marketing Coordinator at Eternal Engagements…

First Job?

I worked at Pizza hut whilst studying at college and university. I enjoyed working with my team so much that I stayed for ten years and became the restaurant manager.

How would you introduce yourself in an elevator pitch?

Hi, I am Joe; I have a very creative background; I studied Art and Fashion design which led me to be part of a start-up family business designing men’s underwear and loungewear. We launched an e-commerce platform called AVA-J, leading to my first marketing role. Years later moved on to Sika Everbuild, a building chemicals manufacturer, where I further developed my skills in a large corporate environment.

Biggest Career achievement?

I can think of a few, but if I had to pick, it would be winning two awards, Rising Star at the family business awards in 2017 and Best Men’s face wash at the Shortlist Beauty Awards for AVA-J. As a start-up family business, it was terrific to be recognized.

Nickname? 

Goddard or Joey

What is it about the job that you enjoy?

Being the first person in a marketing role at Eternal Engagements has provided me with a unique and exciting opportunity. I have been able to review the great groundwork that was put in place to get the company started, and build upon and improve it. I have always thrived on being creative and keeping our company’s image fresh and engaging. It’s been an absolute pleasure to build the marketing plans for 2023 from scratch, and I cannot wait to see what we achieve going forward as a team.

Who inspires you?

Comedian Joe Lycett.

Favorite Film?

Sleeping Beauty… It’s just a piece of art from the animation to Tchaikovsky’s music. Just a bit of a geek in general. Anything Marvel and I am happy!

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Train driver. I watched a lot of Thomas the tank engine.

First Album?

Crazy Cats by PJ & Duncan Spotify – U Krazy Katz – song and lyrics by PJ & Duncan

What are the company’s most significant challenges, and how do you think we are positioned to meet them?

We have several challenges to tackle in 2023, but the one that stands out to me is increasing our brand exposure and expanding our client base. Fortunately, Amrit and Dean are assembling an exceptional team here at Eternal Engagements, and I have complete confidence that we are up to the task ahead.

Thank you for reading our fourth instalment of the 10 Questions series with Joe Goddard, Marketing Coordinator at Eternal Engagements. We hope you enjoyed getting to know him better and learning more about him career, inspirations, and thoughts about the business. Remember to watch for our next instalment featuring one of our other talented team members. Thank you for supporting Eternal Engagements!

Celebrating Pride in the workplace

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June is Pride Month to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community and raise awareness about their issues. As an inclusive and diverse workplace, it’s vital to support our LGBTQ+ employees and promote a positive and welcoming environment for all. In this blog post, we’ll share 12 tips for celebrating Pride Month in your workplace in June and year-round.

  1. Educate yourself and your colleagues:

Take the time to educate yourself and your colleagues on LGBTQ+ issues, such as the history of Pride Month, the struggles the community has faced, and the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace. You can also invite speakers from LGBTQ+ organizations such as Stonewall to share their experiences and insights.

  1. Host an inclusion workshop:

Look at hosting a workshop for your company and include user-generated videos for the diversity of your LGBTQ+ employees or customers saying what Pride means to them – if they’re comfortable with it.

  1. Encourage employees to share their pronouns:

Create a safe space where employees can feel comfortable sharing their pronouns and encourage their use in email signatures, introductions, and other company communications.

  1. Show your support:

Display Pride flags, banners, and other decorations around the office; promote Pride Zoom or Teams backgrounds. You can also encourage your employees to wear rainbow colours or other LGBTQ+ symbols to show their support.

  1. Donate to an LGBTQ+ charity:

There are still a lot of LGBTQ+ causes that need support, and a charitable donation is a great way to show that you want to help. You could do fundraising in the office with a bake sale, a fun run, or dress up in rainbow clothes. There are many creative ways to do a fun-filled fundraiser — the sky’s the limit!

  1. Create an inclusive policy:

Review your policies and procedures to ensure they support LGBTQ+ employees. It can include policies around discrimination and harassment, gender-neutral restrooms, and employee benefits for same-sex partners.

  1. Celebrate with events and activities:

Organise events and activities to celebrate Pride Month, such as a fundraiser for an LGBTQ+ charity or joining a local Pride parade. You can also host workshops or training sessions to promote understanding and acceptance of LGBTQ+ issues.

  1. Amplify LGBTQ+ voices:

Give LGBTQ+ employees a platform to share their experiences and perspectives. It can include creating a space for employees to share their stories or featuring LGBTQ+ employees in company newsletters or social media posts.

  1. Use inclusive language:

Be mindful of using inclusive language, such as using “partner” instead of “husband” or “wife”, or “they/them” instead of assuming someone’s gender.

  1. Implement diversity and inclusion training:

Provide training to all employees on diversity and inclusion, including LGBTQ+ issues, to create a more inclusive workplace for everyone.

  1. Offer LGBTQ+ resources:

Train all employees with access to resources such as LGBTQ+ support groups or counselling

  1. Celebrate all year round:

Remember that Pride Month is not the only time to celebrate LGBTQ+ individuals. Continue to support and celebrate your LGBTQ+ employees throughout the year by incorporating inclusive practices into your workplace culture.

By following these 12 tips, you can create a welcoming and inclusive workplace for your LGBTQ+ employees and celebrate Pride Month in a meaningful way, not just in June but all year round. At our company, we believe that diversity and inclusivity are essential to creating a positive and productive workplace, and we are proud to support our LGBTQ+ employees and the wider community.

Mental Health Awareness Week: Coping with Anxiety

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Mental Health Awareness Week is an important event that shines a light on the importance of mental health in our daily lives. This year’s official theme, ‘anxiety’, highlights the need for greater awareness of the many different forms of anxiety and the impact it can have on individuals and communities. At Eternal Engagements, we’re committed to supporting mental health and wellbeing. We’ve developed an app that provides instant access to NHS-approved guides on anxiety, health anxiety, social anxiety, panic and more.

Anxiety can be difficult to live with, but there are many effective strategies for managing it. Our employee assistance programme (EAP) is designed to provide support 24/7/365, with access to professionally qualified and experienced counsellors, articles, meditation guides, how-to videos, and podcasts. Our goal is to empower our clients to take control of their mental health and to provide the tools and resources they need to live happier, healthier lives.

One technique that can be beneficial for managing anxiety is the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique.This technique involves focusing on your senses and the environment around you, which can help bring you back to the present moment and reduce anxiety. Start by taking a deep breath, then:

Look around and identify 5 things you can see

Touch 4 things around you, such as your desk, your clothes, or your skin

Listen for 3 things you can hear, such as birds singing or traffic outside

Smell 2 things you can smell, such as coffee or perfume

Taste 1 thing you can taste, such as a mint or a piece of fruit

Another technique that has been shown to be effective in reducing anxiety is EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), also known as tapping or psychological acupressure. This technique involves tapping on specific meridian points on the body while focusing on a particular problem or issue. It can help reduce the intensity of negative emotions and promote calm and relaxation.

Tap several times in the following places on your body.

  • Hand (Karate Chop)
  • Top of the head
  • Eyebrow
  • Side of the eye
  • Under the eye
  • Under the nose
  • Chin
  • Collar Bone
  • Under the Arm.

At Eternal Engagements, we believe mental health is as important as physical health. We’re committed to providing our clients the support they need to manage anxiety and other mental health conditions. If you’re struggling with anxiety or other mental health issues, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Our app and EAP are just a few of the many resources available to help you take control of your mental health and live your best life.

10 Questions with Hannah Fossett

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In this monthly blog series, we talk to our staff at Eternal Engagements from all departments and deeply dive into their career highlights, personal inspirations and thoughts about the business, plus a few fun facts!

This month we meet with Hannah Fossett, Payroll Administrator at Eternal Engagements…

First Job?

Saturday girl in a hairdresser at age 16, cleaning the salon and washing hair

How would you introduce yourself in an elevator pitch?

Hello, I’m Hannah. I’m super organised and a perfectionist. I have nearly seven years of experience in Payroll. I have learnt the ropes in an accountancy firm processing payroll for several clients of varying sizes. I didn’t start in Payroll; I trained as a Pastry Chef when I left school after 6th form. Outside of work, my hobbies include reading, fine dining, and travel. I love a to-do list, and my goal at work is to organise Zuber- his desk is very messy!

Biggest Career achievement?

Meeting Mary Berry during the first year of my apprenticeship as a pastry chef (she even signed my bake-off book!). Navigating clients through Furlough is also a significant achievement.

Nickname? 

Fozzy Bear (my history teacher at High School gave me this nickname, not sure if it’s because of my last name or because he thought I looked like a Muppet)

What is it about the job that you enjoy?

My colleagues, who make me laugh every day, are the best bunch of people you will meet and are passionate about their job

Who inspires you?

My Mum- she can take on anyone and everything!

Favorite Film?

Avengers Endgame- I still sob at the cheeseburger line ☹

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Pastry Chef

First Album?

I think it was the Lion King- Hakuna Matata – on tape! Spotify – Hakuna Matata – From “The Lion King” Soundtrack – song and lyrics by Nathan Lane

What are the company’s most significant challenges, and how do you think we are positioned to meet them?

No one knows how fantastic the app is and the benefits we offer. Everyone thinks there is some catch, but there isn’t. We have an outstanding sales and marketing team who strive to make sure everyone hears about us and what we do.

Thank you for reading our fourth instalment of the 10 Questions series with Hannah Fossett, Payroll Administrator at Eternal Engagements. We hope you enjoyed getting to know her better and learning more about her career, inspirations, and thoughts about the business. Remember to watch for our next instalment featuring one of our other talented team members. Thank you for supporting Eternal Engagements!

Hybrid working – To ditch or not to ditch?

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As companies plan to return to the office, many leaders are struggling with the concept of hybrid working. With the economic downturn causing labour turnover to slow down, many businesses are using this time to plan office-centric workforce strategies. However, research has shown that employees who have the flexibility to work from different locations and have control over their work hours are more likely to be productive and engaged.

Caitlin Duffy, Director in the Gartner HR practice, warns against completely shifting to office-based working and highlights the numerous benefits of hybrid working. Connectedness is the key to realizing the benefits of hybrid working. Companies that resist hybrid working run the risk of facing long-term reputation and attrition issues and hindering their competitiveness in a more virtual society.

At Eternal Engagements, our employment law specialists offer comprehensive guidance and support to companies in need. In the event of an employee emergency, our consultants can provide immediate assistance and in the case of a tribunal, our experts will be there to support you throughout the entire process. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help optimize your hybrid working experience.

Statistics

69% of business leaders had concerns about collaboration, culture, creativity and engagement with hybrid working
54% of HR leaders felt that their employees were less connected to their organisations than they were before the pandemic

References

Businesses warned not to ditch hybrid working – Personnel Today

10 Questions with Laura Archbold

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In this new monthly blog series, we talk to our staff at Eternal Engagements from all departments and deeply dive into their career highlights, personal inspirations and thoughts about the business, plus a few fun facts!

This month we meet with Laura Archbold, Business development manager at Eternal Engagements…

First Job?

When I was ten, I designed a magazine full of useless information, printed 100 copies, and knocked on my neighbours’ doors to sell them. In one week, I made £10 and felt like I would take over the world!

How would you introduce yourself in an elevator pitch?

Hi there! I’m Laura Archbold, a Business Development Manager at Eternal Engagements. I’m passionate about developing creative and practical strategies to help our clients grow and thrive. In my spare time, I also run a cosy coffee shop in Cardiff, where I love chatting with customers and sharing my passion for delicious coffee. With a strong Welsh accent and a friendly personality, I’m always excited to connect with new people and explore new opportunities. Let’s chat and see how we can work together!

Biggest Career achievement?

Opening a coffee shop during the lockdown

Nickname? 

Litty Laura – My grandfather used to call me this because I was tiny as a toddler

What is it about the job that you enjoy?

The people I work with and the culture of the company. You do get looked after!

Who inspires you?

My nan, she’s the most positive and happy person I know – nothing ever phases her!

Favorite Sports Team?

The Welsh Rugby Team

What did you want to be when you grew up?

Ballerina

First Album?

Oasis – Definitely Maybe Spotify – Definitely Maybe (Remastered) – Album by Oasis

What are the company’s most significant challenges, and how do you think we are positioned to meet them?

Being in the infancy of our business and having an extremely high take-up rate – The challenge Eternal Engagements may face is managing our growth. As our company grows, it becomes more complex and challenging to manage. However, that’s why we know the importance of solid systems and processes and a clear organisational structure. We also realise we must hire the right people and provide them with the support and training they and the company need to succeed.

Thank you for reading our fourth instalment of the 10 Questions series with Laura Archbold, business development manager at Eternal Engagements. We hope you enjoyed getting to know her better and learning more about her career, inspirations, and thoughts about the business. Remember to watch for our next instalment featuring one of our other talented team members. Thank you for supporting Eternal Engagements!

Seven tips to help support your Muslim employees during Ramadan

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Ramadan is a special time of the year for Muslims, as it is a time of spiritual reflection and devotion. During this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, abstaining from food and drink. It can be challenging for Muslims, especially those working during this period. As an employer, it is crucial to be aware of your Muslim employees’ needs during Ramadan and make appropriate accommodations to support them during this time.

Here are seven tips to help support your Muslim employees during Ramadan:

Be Understanding

Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection and devotion for Muslims. It is essential to be understanding of your Muslim employees during this time and to make accommodations for their needs.

Be Flexible

Muslims may need to take time off during Ramadan for prayer and other religious observances. Be flexible with working arrangements and time off during this period to support your employees.

Show your Respect

Be respectful of your Muslim employees’ beliefs and practices during Ramadan. Avoid scheduling meetings or events during their fasting hours, and be mindful of their energy levels.

Provide a Quiet Space

Make sure your Muslim employees have a quiet space where they can pray during work hours. It will help them to feel comfortable and supported during their time at work.

Provide Support for Breaking the Fast

During Ramadan, Muslims break their fast at sunset. Ensure that your Muslim employees have access to food and drink. You can also provide a space for them to break their fast together.

Promote Inclusivity

Ramadan is a time for community and inclusivity. Encourage your employees to learn more about Ramadan and to participate in events and activities that promote understanding and inclusivity.

Celebrate Eid

Eid al-Fitr is the festival that marks the end of Ramadan. Celebrate this important holiday with your Muslim colleagues and friends.

In addition to the above, Eternal Engagements also offers services to support and celebrate diversity and inclusion in the workplace. From cultural awareness training to diversity and inclusion consulting, we can help your organisation create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all employees. It includes support for religious holidays and observances, such as Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr. We understand the importance of these events and are committed to helping employers and employees navigate these celebrations in a way that is respectful and inclusive for all. Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can support your organisation.

10 Questions with Rizwana Kausar

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In this new monthly blog series, we talk to our staff at Eternal engagements from all departments and dive deeply into their career highlights, personal inspirations, and thoughts about the business, plus a few fun facts!

Meet our Junior Payroll Administrator Rizwana Kausar

First Job?

I worked at Bombay Stores, one of the leading Indian bridal wear companies

How would you introduce yourself in an elevator pitch?

I help businesses retain and attract staff by offering them solutions such as payroll management, HR support and employee benefits.

Biggest Career achievement?

I have a few – I have been awarded an employee of the month, and 5-year employee loyalty award, numerous excellent feedbacks from businesses and clients, and completed many training modules.

Nickname? 

Rosie – my dad called me this since I was a baby

What is it about the job that you enjoy?

Keeping clients happy is rewarding, and it makes me feel like I am doing something right by putting a smile on their faces.

Who inspires you?

My parents – they inspired me to work hard to work hard consistently and have a positive outlook in all situations.

Favorite film?

Bollywood movie called Khabie Khushi Khabie Gham – a family orientated film.

What did you want to be when you grew up?

A teacher – I wanted to teach and help children aged between four and six years old.

Favorite Football Team & Player?

Portugal – Cristiano Ronaldo

What are the company’s most significant challenges, and how do you think we are positioned to meet them?

Eternal Engagements has a unique market, and upselling something rare can be challenging, but great salespeople like myself can beat the odds and make a success out of them.

Thank you for reading our third installment of the 10 Questions series with Rizwana Kausar, Junior Payroll Administrator at Eternal Engagements. We hope you enjoyed getting to know her a little better and learning more about her career, inspirations, and thoughts about the business. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for our next installment, featuring one of our other talented team members. Thank you for supporting Eternal Engagements!

Payroll Information Updates for Tax Year 2023/2024

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Welcome to our latest blog post on the crucial updates to payroll information for the upcoming tax year of 2023/2024. At Eternal Engagements, we understand the complexities and challenges of managing payroll, and that’s why we use the certified Sage business cloud payroll software combined with our team of experts. It allows us to stay ahead of the game and avoid common payroll mistakes, such as failing to update minimum wages or tax codes, which can lead to incorrect employee pay and inaccurate pension rates. In this blog, we’ll provide you with the latest updates and insights to ensure you stay compliant and up to date with your payroll responsibilities.

PAYE tax rates and thresholds

PAYE tax rates and thresholds 2023 to 2024
Employee personal allowance £242 per week
£1,048 per month
£12,570 per year
basic tax rate 20% on annual earnings above the PAYE tax threshold and up to £37,700
higher tax rate 40% on annual earnings from £37,701 to £125,140
additional tax rate 45% on annual earnings above £125,140

NI Thresholds

Class 1 National Insurance thresholds 2023 to 2024
LEL £123 per week

£533 per month

£6,396 per year
Primary threshold £242 per week
£1,048 per month
£12,570 per yearDirectors
For the whole tax year:£229 per week
£11,908 per year
Secondary Threshold (ST) £175 per week

£758 per month

£9,100 per year
Upper Secondary Threshold (under 21) (UST) £967 per week

£4,189 per month

£50,270 per year
Apprentice Upper Secondary Threshold (apprentice under 25) (AUST) £967 per week

£4,189 per month

£50,270 per year
Upper Earnings Limit (UEL) £967 per week

£4,189 per month

£50,270 per year

Minimum wage rates

NB: Minimum Wage increase from 1st April 2023 as follows:

Apprentice Rate              £5.28

Aged under 18                 £5.28

18-20-Year-Old                £7.49

Adult Rate (21-22)           £10.18

Living Wage (23 +)           £10.42

 

 Statutory Maternity, Paternity, Adoption and Shared Parental Pay

Type of payment or recovery 2023 to 2024 rate
SMP – weekly rate for first 6 weeks 90% of the employee’s average weekly earnings
SMP – weekly rate for remaining weeks £172.48 or 90% of the employee’s average weekly earnings, whichever is lower
Statutory Paternity Pay (SPP) – weekly rate £172.48 or 90% of the employee’s average weekly earnings, whichever is lower
Statutory Adoption Pay (SAP) – weekly rate for first 6 weeks 90% of employee’s average weekly earnings
SAP – weekly rate for remaining weeks £172.48 or 90% of the employee’s average weekly earnings, whichever is lower
Statutory Shared Parental Pay (ShPP) – weekly rate £172.48 or 90% of the employee’s average weekly earnings, whichever is lower
SMP/SPP/ShPP/SAP – proportion of your payments you can recover from HMRC 92% if your total Class 1 National Insurance (both employee and employer contributions) is above £45,000 for the previous tax year

103% if your total Class 1 National Insurance for the previous tax year is £45,000 or lower

 

Sick Pay

Statutory Sick pay has increased to £109.40 per week

Student Loan and Postgraduate loan

In addition to student loan recovery, we now have post-graduate loan recovery, which will be deducted via payroll. It will be shown on new starter forms.

Rate or threshold 2023 to 2024 rate
Employee earnings threshold for student loan plan 1 £22,015 per year
£1,834.58 per month
£423.37 per week
Employee earnings threshold for student loan plan 2 £27,295 per year
£2,274.58 per month
£524.90 per week
Employee earnings threshold for student loan plan 4 £27,660 per year
£2,305 per month
£531.92 per week
Student loan deductions 9%
Employee earnings threshold for postgraduate loan £21,000 per year
£1,750.00 per month
£403.84 per week
Postgraduate loan deductions 6%

  

Class 1 National Insurance rates

Employee (primary) contribution rates

 Deduct primary contributions (employee’s National Insurance) from your employees’ pay through PAYE.

National Insurance category letter Earnings at or above lower earnings limit up to and including primary threshold Earnings above the primary threshold up to and including upper earnings limit Balance of earnings above upper earnings limit
A 0% 12% 2%
B 0% 5.85% 2%
C nil nil nil
H (apprentice under 25) 0% 12% 2%
M (under 21) 0% 12% 2%

 

Employer (secondary) contribution rates

You pay secondary contributions (employer’s National Insurance) to HMRC as part of your PAYE bill.

Pay employers’ PAYE tax and National Insurance.

National Insurance category letter Earnings at or above lower earnings limit up to and including secondary threshold Earnings above secondary threshold up to and including Freeport upper secondary threshold Earnings above Freeport upper secondary threshold up to and including upper earnings limit, upper secondary thresholds for under 21s, apprentices and veterans Balance of earnings above upper earnings limit, upper secondary thresholds for under 21s, apprentices and veterans
A 0% 13.8% 13.8% 13.8%
B 0% 13.8% 13.8% 13.8%
C 0% 13.8% 13.8% 13.8%
H (apprentice under 25) 0% 0% 0% 13.8%
M (under 21) 0% 0% 0% 13.8%

Employment Allowance

Employment Allowance allows eligible employers to reduce their annual National Insurance liability by up to the annual allowance amount.

Allowance 2023 to 2024 rate
Employment Allowance £5,000

National Pet Day 2023

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Today is National Pet Day, and here at Eternal Engagements, we’re celebrating by showcasing the furry friends that make up our team. They’re more than just pets, they’re members of our family, and we’re proud to share them with you. Do keep reading to meet our beloved companions and learn more about each!

Prudence (Prue for short)

Prudence is a 9-year-old black and white cat who loves to chase paper balls and particularly likes prawns but will settle for a few Dreamies. She is known for her hunting skills, but since moving to a new house, she has enjoyed sleeping instead. If her dad works from home and is on a team call, she can’t resist the urge to walk on the keyboard! The team always enjoys seeing her on camera!

Mylie (A.K.A Fury flash bang)

Miley is a 2-year-old Belgian Malinois who is an outdoors enthusiast and loves long walks and running alongside her dad’s bike. She loves being around her family and gets extremely excited when visitors come to see her, earning her the nickname “Fury Flash Bang.” Miley has a refined taste and enjoys steak as her favourite treat, along with playing with her preferred Kong dog toys.

Teddy (Ted for short)

Teddy, a 7-year-old cat, was welcomed into the family after the passing of their previous cat, George. While he is a copycat of George, Teddy prefers his own space and is more affectionate when he wants something, especially one of his 3-4 daily meals of Felix – doubly delicious.

At Eternal Engagements, we understand the importance of pets in our lives and their positive impact on our mental and emotional well-being. Today, we are celebrating National Pet Day by showcasing some of the beloved pets of our team members. Our team members’ pets bring joy and companionship to their daily lives. We are proud to offer employee benefits such as discounts on popular pet food and treat brands and pet insurance options through our employee benefits app. We believe in the power of pets to improve our overall well-being and are happy to support our team members in their pet ownership journey.