ACAS (the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) is funded by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy (BEIS), but is a non-departmental body, governed by an independent council. This allows them to be independent, impartial and confidential.

Founded in 1975, they have over 30 years' experience of working with people in organisations of every size and type. Whether you're an employer or an employee, you can get free advice from ACAS by calling their confidential telephone helpline. They also offer more specialised services, including training, workplace projects, conciliation and mediation.

Hertfordshire is within the East of England branch of ACAS. Visit the ACAS website

Useful links

Advice for employers and employees
Useful templates for letters, forms and checklists
Training webinars and events
Top tips for better management

HMRC is the UK’s tax authority. Almost every UK business is a direct customer of HMRC.

You will need to speak to HMRC when you start your own business, once you have products to sell or you are actively marketing your business. You should register your business with HMRC.

HMRC can help you find out if a potential employee has the right to work in the UK and what documents employers should check. They can also help you with becoming an employer. 

Visit the HMRC website

Check a job applicant's 'right to work' documents
You must check that a job applicant is allowed to work for you in the UK before you employ them:

• You must see the worker’s original documents.
• You must check that the documents are valid with the worker present.
• You must make and keep copies of the documents and record the date you made the check.
• You could face a civil penalty if you employ an illegal worker and haven’t carried out a correct right to work check.

You must not discriminate against anyone because of their race. Detailed advice for employers about document checks is available from the Home Office.