Pictured above: Justine Vaughan, Founder and Director of Triangle HR

A local HR consultancy is reminding Shropshire employers to put plans firmly in place to deal with an upcoming crackdown on corporate hospitality.

Shrewsbury-based Triangle HR is urging businesses to update their policies, training procedures and staff handbooks to take into account the impending introduction of the Bribery Act 2010.

The new law, which comes into effect from July 1st, includes a corporate offence that means company executives can be made accountable for any acts of corruption or improper behaviour carried out by their employees, unless they can prove adequate procedures were in place.

The Act has been revised by the Government following concerns raised by the business community that firms would be liable for the actions of 'rogue' members of staff, with official guidelines issued by Justice Secretary Kenneth Clarke pledging that 'trivial cases' wouldn't be prosecuted.

"With so much confusion and concern over the initial proposals, a number of local employers have been in touch wanting to know the implications the new law could have on their business," Justine Vaughan, Founder and Director of Triangle HR, revealed. "Some had genuine fears that a seemingly innocent drink with a client after work or a business meeting over lunch could fall foul of the law, and whilst it's clear from official guidelines that the vast majority of corporate hospitality such as these won't be affected, it's still crucial for employers to have robust policies in place to nip any potential wrongdoing in the bud."

Justine recommends local employers carry out a comprehensive review of anti-bribery and corporate hospitality policies to take into account the new law, making sure company procedures on accepting or giving gifts, promotional expenditure, and corporate hospitality are all clearly outlined.

"It's also important that all employees, especially senior members of staff, are aware of the rules and what is and isn't acceptable, as well as the internal process for approving and recording corporate hospitality, so businesses should provide suitable training where necessary. For some roles in particularly 'high-risk' sectors, it is good practice to include anti-bribery and anti-corruption clauses into workers' employment contracts.

"Any employer who is unsure about how the new law could impact on their business is more than welcome to get in touch for a free, no-obligation consultation by emailing justine@triangle.co.uk or calling 01743 453170," Justine concluded.

Triangle HR offers a full consultancy service covering every area of employment and provides a professional, cost-effective solution for businesses across the region. For further information please call 01743 453170, 07801 500462, visit www.trianglehr.co.uk or email Justine on justine@trianglehr.co.uk.