Send us a textIn this episode of Buzzing About HR, host Kate Underwood takes a closer look at the rise in National Insurance contributions coming in April 2025 and what it really means for small and medium-sized businesses.With contributions increasing to 15%, many employers are already feeling the squeeze. Payroll costs are climbing, hiring decisions are being delayed, and some businesses are even considering redundancies to stay afloat. Others are exploring contractor arrangements to cut costs, but that brings its own challenges, especially with proposed changes that could abolish zero-hours contracts altogether.Kate unpicks how these shifts could ripple through your workforce, from engagement and morale to long-term planning. She shares practical, people-first strategies to help you steady the ship, protect jobs where you can, and keep your culture strong even when budgets are tight.If you are a small business owner or HR lead wondering how to balance the books without burning out your team, this episode will help you find that middle ground between financial reality and human impact.For hands-on support, you can reach Kate at [email protected] for a strategy session, contract review, or to book a free HR Health Check.You will also find more tips and updates at www.kateunderwoodhr.co.uk. Thank you for tuning in to Buzzing About HR with Kate Underwood!If you enjoyed today’s episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and leave a review—your feedback helps us grow and reach more people like you. Have questions or need HR advice? Reach out to Kate Underwood HR & Training at www.kateunderwoodhr.co.uk, email us on [email protected] or follow us on social media for more tips, resources, and updates. Until next time, keep buzzing and take care of your people!

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