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For a successful business, you need a viable business idea, the skills to make it work and the funding. Discover whether your idea has what it takes.

Forming your business correctly is essential to ensure you are protected and you comply with the rules. Learn how to set up your business.

Advice on protecting your wellbeing, self-confidence and mental health from the pressures of starting and running a business.

Learn why business planning is an essential exercise if your business is to start and grow successfully, attract funding or target new markets.

It is likely you will need funding to start your business unless you have your own money. Discover some of the main sources of start up funding.

Businesses and individuals must account for and pay various taxes. Understand your tax obligations and how to file, account and pay any taxes you owe.

Businesses are required to comply with a wide range of business laws. We introduce the main rules and regulations you must comply with.

Marketing matters. It drives sales and helps promote your brand and products. Discover how to market your business and reach your target customers.

Some businesses need a high street location whilst others can be run from home. Understand the key factors from cost to location, size to security.

Your employees can your biggest asset. They can also be your biggest challenge. We explain how to recruitment and manage staff successfully.

It is likely your business could not function without some form of IT. Learn how to specify, buy, maintain and secure your business IT.

Few businesses manage the leap from start up to high-growth business. Learn what it takes to scale up and take your business to the next level.

Holding a disciplinary hearing - checklist

Not sure how to go about holding a fair and lawful disciplinary hearing when an employee has breached workplace rules? Follow our step-by-step guide.

  • Gather the facts - the allegation, evidence, and the employee's past record.
  • Try to resolve the issue informally first. If this does not work, raise the matter formally without delay.
  • Inform the employee in writing, explaining the reason for the hearing and when it will take place; allow the employee at least three working days' notice to prepare a case.
  • Arrange for any witnesses, or evidence you or the employee wants to present at the hearing, to be available.
  • Inform the employee that they have the right to bring a colleague (or union representative) to the hearing.
  • Review your procedures and make sure they are fair and transparent and are in accordance with the Acas Code of Practice.
  • Prepare yourself to be calm and open-minded throughout the hearing; be ready to adjourn the hearing if tempers become frayed.
  • Begin the hearing by explaining what will happen; set and keep to an agenda to maintain control of the hearing.
  • Present the case against the employee.
  • Allow time for a response and consider the case from the other side.
  • Clarify any mitigating circumstances: for example, if the employee was unaware of the rules, or if similar behaviour is widespread.
  • Encourage suggestions to help overcome the problem.
  • Summarise the discussion and adjourn to make any further investigations necessary and to reach a decision.
  • Consider how serious the offence is, what action it merits and any steps which could be taken to improve the situation.
  • Inform the employee of your decision as soon as possible in writing; issue and explain any warning.
  • Explain that the employee has the right to appeal; if possible any appeal should be heard by someone senior who has not been involved in the initial hearing.
  • Throughout, keep a detailed written record; ask the employee to sign any improvement plan, and emphasise the consequences of further offences.
  • If you cannot reach an agreement, consider using an independent third party to help resolve the matter.

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