Glossary

Attendance Allowance is a non-means-tested, tax-free weekly benefit for people aged 67 or over who need help with personal care or supervision because of a physical or mental disability or illness. It is paid at two rates depending on whether care is needed during the day, night, or both.

An Assured Shorthold Tenancy is the most common form of private residential tenancy in England and Wales. It gives the tenant exclusive possession of a property and the landlord certain rights, including the right to end the tenancy using a Section 21 or Section 8 notice. An AST can be periodic (rolling) or fixed-term.

Acas is a publicly funded organisation that provides free, impartial advice on employment law and workplace relations. Before bringing a claim in the Employment Tribunal, claimants must contact Acas to go through Early Conciliation. Acas also offers paid conciliation and arbitration services, as well as codes of practice that tribunals take into account when assessing cases.

Alternative Dispute Resolution refers to methods of resolving disputes without going to court, including mediation, conciliation, arbitration, and ombudsman schemes. Many consumer contracts now include ADR clauses, and traders in some regulated sectors must be members of an approved ADR scheme. ADR is generally faster and cheaper than litigation, though arbitration decisions can be legally binding.

An assured tenancy is a form of residential tenancy under the Housing Act 1988 that gives the tenant greater security of tenure than an assured shorthold tenancy. Landlords can only end an assured tenancy by establishing one of the grounds set out in the Act. Assured tenancies are most commonly found in the social housing sector, though many private sector tenancies created before 1997 may also be assured tenancies.

An agency worker is a person engaged by a business through a recruitment or staffing agency. After 12 weeks in the same role with the same hirer, agency workers are entitled to the same basic working and employment conditions as directly employed workers under the Agency Workers Regulations 2010. They have the right to access the hirer's vacancies and collective facilities (such as a canteen or childcare) from day one.

Auto-enrolment is the legal requirement for employers to automatically enrol eligible workers into a qualifying workplace pension scheme and make minimum contributions. Eligible workers are those aged 22 to State Pension age, earning above the earnings trigger (£10,000 per year), and working in the UK. The minimum total contribution is 8% of qualifying earnings (including at least 3% from the employer). Workers may opt out but must be re-enrolled every three years.

The statutory minimum paid holiday entitlement for workers in the UK. All workers are entitled to 5.6 weeks (28 days for full-time) of paid annual leave per year, which can include bank holidays. Part-time workers receive a pro-rata entitlement.

Statutory time limits requiring social and private landlords to investigate and remedy hazards within fixed timescales, introduced by the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023 section 10A in memory of Awaab Ishak, who died from mould exposure in social housing. Phased commencement from October 2025 for damp/mould/cold; further hazards from 2026; further from 2027.

The standard type of private residential tenancy in England under the Housing Act 1988. Provides limited security of tenure — the landlord can recover possession through Section 21 or Section 8 procedures. The Renters' Rights Act 2025 abolishes new ASTs on the appointed day and converts existing ones to periodic tenancies.

The statutory code under section 199 Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 setting out fair process for workplace disciplinaries and grievances. Tribunals can adjust unfair dismissal awards up to 25% for unreasonable failure to comply.

The non-departmental public body that promotes good employment relations in Great Britain. Provides free workplace advice (helpline 0300 123 1100), mandatory Early Conciliation before Employment Tribunal claims, codes of practice, and arbitration. Funded by the Department for Business and Trade.

Benefit sanctions are reductions in Universal Credit or Jobseeker's Allowance payments applied by the DWP when a claimant fails to meet the conditions in their Claimant Commitment without good reason. Sanctions range from a few days to several months depending on the severity and frequency of the failure. Claimants have the right to request a review if they believe the sanction was applied unfairly.

The Benefit Cap is a limit on the total amount of welfare benefits a working-age household can receive. It applies to most households outside London at £442.31 per week (£384.62 for single adults without children) and at slightly higher rates in Greater London. Households where someone works enough hours to qualify for Working Tax Credit, or receives certain disability benefits, are exempt from the cap.

Bereavement Support Payment is a benefit for people whose spouse, civil partner, or cohabiting partner with children dies and who were under State Pension age at the time. It consists of an initial lump sum (£3,500 or £500 depending on whether the claimant has children) followed by up to 18 monthly payments. Claims must be made within 21 months of the death to receive the full amount.

A Budgeting Advance is an interest-free loan available to Universal Credit claimants to help with one-off expenses such as buying essential household items, covering the cost of starting a new job, or dealing with an emergency. The minimum loan is £100; the maximum is £348 for a single person, £464 for a couple, or £812 for families with children. Repayments are deducted automatically from future Universal Credit payments.

The Bedroom Tax — formally called the Removal of the Spare Room Subsidy — is a reduction in Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit applied to social housing tenants who are deemed to have one or more spare bedrooms. The reduction is 14% for one spare bedroom and 25% for two or more. Certain groups, including those with a severe disability who need an overnight carer, are exempt.

A Biometric Residence Permit is a card issued to non-EEA nationals who have been granted leave to remain in the UK for more than six months. It acts as proof of the holder's right to live, work, and study in the UK and stores biometric information (fingerprints and a facial image). BRPs are being phased out and replaced by eVisas, with most holders now being directed to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to prove their immigration status digitally.

A best interests decision is a decision made on behalf of a person who lacks the mental capacity to make that decision themselves, as required by the Mental Capacity Act 2005. Decision-makers must consider the person's past and present wishes, feelings, values, and beliefs, and involve relevant people in their life. For serious decisions involving deprivation of liberty or significant medical treatment, an application to the Court of Protection may be required.

A person authorised to collect debts and enforce court judgments. Since 2014, most bailiffs are called enforcement agents and must be certificated by a county court judge. They can collect council tax debts, unpaid fines, and county court judgments. Strict rules govern when they can visit, what they can take, and the fees they can charge.

Council Tax Support (also called Council Tax Reduction) is a local scheme administered by each council that reduces or eliminates the council tax bill for people on low incomes. Each council sets its own scheme for working-age claimants, though the rules for pension-age claimants are set nationally. It is not a national benefit and varies widely between areas.

Companies House is the UK's registrar of companies, responsible for incorporating and dissolving limited companies, registering company information, and making it publicly available. All limited companies and LLPs must file accounts, confirmation statements, and notify Companies House of changes to directors, shareholders, or the registered office.

A Confirmation Statement (formerly Annual Return) is a document that all UK companies must file at Companies House at least once every 12 months confirming that the information held about the company is up to date. It covers registered office address, directors, persons of significant control, shareholder information, and SIC codes. Failure to file is a criminal offence.

The Care Quality Commission is the independent regulator of health and adult social care in England. It registers and inspects hospitals, care homes, GP practices, home care agencies, and other care services, rating them as Outstanding, Good, Requires Improvement, or Inadequate. Providers that fail to meet fundamental standards can be fined, restricted, or closed.

A care needs assessment is a free evaluation by a local council that determines whether an adult has eligible care and support needs under the Care Act 2014. The assessment looks at the person's ability to manage daily activities, their wellbeing, and the outcomes important to them. Anyone who appears to need care has the right to request one, regardless of financial circumstances.

Child Benefit is a non-means-tested payment for people responsible for raising a child under 16 (or under 20 if in approved education or training). The weekly rate is £25.60 for the eldest child and £16.95 for additional children (2025/26). Families where an individual earns over £60,000 a year must repay some or all of the benefit through the High Income Child Benefit Tax Charge.

A Claimant Commitment is a personalised agreement between a Universal Credit claimant and their work coach that sets out what the claimant must do to receive their full benefit payment. Requirements vary depending on the claimant's circumstances — those who are unemployed and capable of work are usually expected to spend 35 hours a week searching for work. Failing to meet the agreed requirements without good reason can result in a benefit sanction.

The Consumer Rights Act 2015 is the main piece of legislation protecting consumers in the UK when buying goods, digital content, and services. It provides that goods must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described; services must be performed with reasonable care and skill. Consumers have a short-term right to reject faulty goods within 30 days, and further rights to repair, replacement, or price reduction after that.

Constructive dismissal occurs when an employer fundamentally breaches the employment contract and the employee resigns in response to that breach. Common examples include unilaterally cutting pay, demoting without cause, bullying, or undermining an employee's authority. The employee must resign promptly after the breach; if they continue working without protest they may be found to have accepted the new terms.

Corporation Tax is the tax charged on the taxable profits of UK limited companies and some other organisations. The main rate is 25% for companies with profits over £250,000 (from April 2023), with a small profits rate of 19% for those with profits up to £50,000 and marginal relief between the two thresholds. Companies must file a Company Tax Return and pay any tax due within nine months and one day of their accounting period end.

A Certificate of Sponsorship is a virtual document (reference number) issued by a licensed UK sponsor to a worker they wish to recruit from overseas. The CoS records details of the job, salary, and the worker, and is required by the worker when making a visa application. Sponsors must assign CoS through the Sponsorship Management System and are responsible for ensuring the worker fulfils the conditions of their visa.

A court order issued when someone fails to repay money they owe. A CCJ stays on your credit record for 6 years and significantly affects your ability to get credit, mortgages, and some jobs. You can have a CCJ removed if you pay the full amount within one month of the judgment.

The principal statute governing adult social care in England. Replaced previous patchwork of legislation with a single framework. Establishes the duty on councils to assess needs (s.9), provide care for eligible needs (s.18), and the wellbeing principle (s.1). Sets out personal budgets, deferred payment agreements, safeguarding (s.42), and continuity of care.

The principal statute governing child welfare, child protection, and family proceedings involving children in England and Wales. Establishes the welfare principle (s.1), parental responsibility (s.2-3), care orders (s.31), child protection (s.47), and looked-after children (Part 3). Children Act 2004 supplements with safeguarding partnerships.

The statutory body that safeguards and promotes the welfare of children in family court proceedings in England. Provides advice to the court on what is safe for children and in their best interests. Includes the Children's Guardian role in public law cases and welfare reports in private law cases.

The specialist court established by the Mental Capacity Act 2005 that makes decisions about the property, affairs, health, and welfare of people who lack mental capacity in England and Wales. Sits at locations across England and Wales; routine matters handled at the regional hubs.

The rules governing procedure in civil court proceedings in England and Wales. In force since 1999, replacing the Rules of the Supreme Court. Set out everything from claim forms to enforcement of judgments. Continually updated by the Civil Procedure Rule Committee.

An independent social worker employed by CAFCASS who represents the child's interests in public law family proceedings (care, supervision, placement orders). Appointed by the court automatically in care proceedings. Has direct access to children's social services records and works alongside a solicitor for the child.

A deadlock letter (also called a final response letter) is a written statement from a company confirming that a complaint has reached an impasse and that it cannot resolve the matter to the complainant's satisfaction. Receiving a deadlock letter (or waiting eight weeks from the initial complaint) typically triggers the right to refer a complaint to an ombudsman such as the Energy Ombudsman or Financial Ombudsman Service.

Landlords in England and Wales must protect their tenants' deposits in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme within 30 days of receiving the deposit. There are three schemes: the Deposit Protection Service, MyDeposits, and the Tenancy Deposit Scheme. Failure to protect a deposit means the landlord cannot serve a valid Section 21 notice and may be liable to a penalty of one to three times the deposit amount.

Disrepair refers to the condition of a rented property that is not kept in repair as required by the tenancy agreement and the law. Landlords have a statutory duty under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 to keep the structure, exterior, and services (heating, water, sanitation) of a property in repair. Tenants can claim compensation for damage caused by disrepair that the landlord has failed to remedy after being notified.

A data controller is the person or organisation that determines the purposes and means of processing personal data. Under UK GDPR, data controllers must register with the ICO (unless exempt), implement appropriate technical and organisational measures to protect data, and ensure individuals can exercise their data rights. Data processors (acting on a controller's instructions) have separate but related obligations.

A Deferred Payment Agreement is a legal arrangement with the local council that allows a person to delay paying care home fees by using the value of their home as security. The council pays the fees and recovers the debt, plus interest, when the property is eventually sold. The council must offer a DPA if the person meets the eligibility criteria under the Care Act 2014.

Deprivation of assets occurs when a person deliberately reduces their assets — for example by gifting money or property — with the intention of reducing their contribution to care costs. Local councils can treat a person as if they still own the transferred assets when carrying out a financial assessment. There is no "safe period" after which a transfer is automatically excluded from scrutiny.

A DBS check is a background check on an individual's criminal record history carried out by the Disclosure and Barring Service. Standard checks reveal spent and unspent convictions, cautions, reprimands, and warnings; enhanced checks also include relevant information held by local police. Enhanced checks with a barred list check are required for roles working in regulated activity with children or vulnerable adults. Employers in certain sectors are legally required to conduct DBS checks before making appointments.

The statutory regime under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (Schedule A1) protecting people who lack capacity from unauthorised deprivation of liberty in hospitals and care homes. Requires authorisation by the supervisory body and a 'best interests assessor'. Being replaced by the Liberty Protection Safeguards under the Mental Capacity (Amendment) Act 2019.

The UK statute supplementing the UK GDPR with domestic provisions, exemptions, and enforcement mechanisms. Implements the EU Law Enforcement Directive for criminal justice processing, and the Intelligence Services Directive. Section 170 makes unauthorised obtaining of personal data a criminal offence.

An Energy Performance Certificate rates the energy efficiency of a property on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Landlords must provide a valid EPC to tenants before a tenancy begins. Rental properties in England must have a minimum EPC rating of E (with limited exceptions); there are proposals to raise this to C for new tenancies.

Early Conciliation is a free process run by Acas that must be attempted before most Employment Tribunal claims can be lodged. The claimant notifies Acas of their intention to bring a claim; Acas then contacts both parties to see if a negotiated settlement is possible. If no settlement is reached within the time limit, Acas issues a certificate allowing the claimant to proceed to the tribunal. The limitation period for claims is paused during Early Conciliation.

The Employment Tribunal is a specialist court that hears disputes between employers and employees or workers, including claims for unfair dismissal, discrimination, unpaid wages, and redundancy. Claims must generally be brought within three months of the act complained of. Most claims are heard by a judge sitting alone or with lay members. Costs awards are rare; each party usually bears its own costs.

The Enterprise Investment Scheme provides tax reliefs to investors in qualifying small and medium-sized companies that are not listed on a recognised stock exchange. Investors can claim 30% Income Tax relief on investments up to £1,000,000 per tax year (£2,000,000 for knowledge-intensive companies), and CGT deferral relief. Unlike SEIS, EIS targets slightly more established companies but imposes similar eligibility conditions.

An Electronic Travel Authorisation is a pre-travel permission required by nationals of certain countries to visit or transit the UK without a visa. It is linked electronically to the applicant's passport and is valid for multiple journeys over two years or until the passport expires. The UK ETA scheme was extended to nationals of European countries from January 2025 and costs £10 per application.

Employers' liability insurance is compulsory for most UK employers under the Employers' Liability (Compulsory Insurance) Act 1969. It covers the costs of compensation claims brought by employees who are injured or become ill as a result of their work. The minimum cover required is £5 million, though most policies provide £10 million. Failure to hold a valid policy can result in a daily fine of up to £2,500.

The consolidated statute prohibiting discrimination, harassment, and victimisation on nine protected characteristics — age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. Covers employment, services, education, housing, public functions, and associations.

The principal statute setting out individual employee rights in Great Britain. Includes unfair dismissal, redundancy, the right to a written statement of particulars, deductions from wages, maternity rights, time off for dependants, and protected disclosures (whistleblowing).

The Financial Conduct Authority is the UK's regulator for financial services firms and markets. It regulates over 50,000 firms, setting standards for how they treat customers and function in financial markets. Firms providing regulated activities (banking, insurance, investment advice, consumer credit) must be authorised by the FCA. Consumers can check whether a firm is regulated using the FCA register.

A financial assessment (or means test) is carried out by the local council after a care needs assessment establishes eligible needs. It determines how much a person must contribute to the cost of their care based on their capital and income. The current capital thresholds are £23,250 (above which individuals self-fund) and £14,250 (below which capital is largely disregarded).

A Final Response Letter is a written communication from a company setting out its final position on a customer complaint and informing the customer of their right to escalate the matter to an ombudsman or ADR scheme. In regulated sectors such as financial services, firms are required to issue a final response within eight weeks of receiving a complaint. The letter effectively opens the door to external dispute resolution.

The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 implies a term into residential tenancy agreements that the property must be fit for human habitation at the start of and throughout the tenancy. A property may be unfit due to problems including damp and mould, structural instability, inadequate heating, or pest infestation. Tenants can take their landlord to court for breach of this implied term without the need to prove negligence.

Outright ownership of both a property and the land it stands on, with no time limit. Freeholders have full control and no obligation to pay ground rent or service charges to a superior landlord. Most houses in England and Wales are freehold.

The right to request information held by public authorities in the UK under the Freedom of Information Act 2000. Anyone can make an FOI request — the authority must respond within 20 working days. Exemptions apply to certain categories of information such as personal data, national security, and commercial interests. The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) handles complaints about FOI responses.

The legal standard requiring every rented dwelling in England to be fit for human habitation when let and to remain fit throughout the tenancy. Set out in section 9A of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, inserted by the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018. The tenant can sue the landlord directly in the County Court for breach.

The UK's main financial services regulator. Regulates banks, insurers, lenders, investment firms, payment service providers, and credit firms. Powers under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 and Financial Services Act 2012 to authorise, supervise, enforce, and fine. Operates the FOS, FSCS, and consumer Money Helper.

The independent dispute resolution scheme for complaints about FCA-regulated firms. Free for consumers. Decisions binding on firms if the consumer accepts. Maximum award £430,000 (consumer complaints from April 2024) or £85,000 (older complaints). Established under the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.

The UK GDPR (retained in domestic law following Brexit) is the principal data protection law governing how organisations collect, use, store, and share personal data. It requires organisations to have a lawful basis for processing personal data, to be transparent with individuals about how their data is used, and to uphold individuals' data rights. Breaches can result in significant fines from the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO).

Garden leave is a period during an employee's notice period when the employer instructs them not to attend work while their contract (including salary and benefits) continues to run. It is used to protect confidential information and client relationships. During garden leave the employee remains bound by their duties of fidelity and any post-termination restrictions may begin to run concurrently.

An annual charge paid by a leaseholder to the freeholder for the use of the land. The Leasehold Reform (Ground Rent) Act 2022 set ground rent to zero (a peppercorn) for most new residential leases granted from 30 June 2022 onwards. Existing leases may still have ground rent obligations.

Housing Benefit is a means-tested benefit that helps people on low incomes pay their rent. It is being replaced by the housing cost element of Universal Credit for working-age claimants, but remains available to pension-age claimants and some other groups. The amount payable depends on the Local Housing Allowance rate in your area, your income, and your household circumstances.

A House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) is a property rented by three or more people who are not all from the same household and who share facilities such as a bathroom or kitchen. Larger HMOs (five or more people forming two or more households) require a mandatory licence from the council. HMOs are subject to additional safety and management regulations.

The Health and Safety Executive is the national regulator for workplace health and safety in Great Britain. It sets and enforces health and safety law, investigates serious workplace incidents, and provides guidance to employers and workers. Employers must notify the HSE of certain workplace accidents and dangerous occurrences under the RIDDOR regulations.

The Habitual Residence Test is applied to determine whether a person is eligible for certain means-tested benefits, including Universal Credit and Pension Credit. A person must demonstrate that they are habitually resident in the Common Travel Area (UK, Ireland, Channel Islands, and Isle of Man), have a right to reside in the UK, and intend to settle here. Returning UK nationals may face a delay of several months before they can satisfy the test.

The risk-based assessment system used by local authority Environmental Health departments to identify hazards in residential properties under Housing Act 2004 Part 1. Hazards are rated Category 1 (highest) or Category 2 (lower). Category 1 hazards engage a duty on the council to act — improvement notice, hazard awareness notice, prohibition order, or emergency works.

A property let to multiple unrelated occupants who share basic amenities (bathroom, kitchen). Defined in the Housing Act 2004 sections 254-260. Large HMOs (5+ persons, 3+ unrelated households) require a mandatory licence. Smaller HMOs may require a licence under selective or additional licensing schemes.

Indefinite Leave to Remain (also called settlement) is immigration status that gives a person the right to live and work in the UK permanently, without time limit or conditions. Most migrants can apply for ILR after five years of lawful residence. ILR can be lost if the holder is absent from the UK for more than two continuous years.

The Immigration Health Surcharge is a fee paid by most non-EEA nationals applying for a UK visa of more than six months, entitling them to use the National Health Service on the same basis as a settled resident. The current rate is £1,035 per year for adults and £776 per year for students and under-18s. The full surcharge for the length of the visa must be paid upfront at the time of application.

The Information Commissioner's Office is the UK's independent authority for upholding information rights and data privacy. It enforces the UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. The ICO can issue reprimands, enforcement notices, and fines of up to £17.5 million or 4% of global annual turnover for serious data protection breaches.

Removing a tenant from a property without following the lawful court possession process, prohibited by section 1 of the Protection from Eviction Act 1977. A criminal offence punishable by up to 2 years' imprisonment plus civil damages under Housing Act 1988 sections 27-28 (statutory damages can run to tens of thousands of pounds).

A statutory advocate under the Mental Capacity Act 2005 (sections 35-39) appointed to support people who lack capacity in specific decisions when they have no-one else to represent their views. Free, independent of the NHS and councils. Mandatory for serious medical treatment, change of accommodation, DoLS, and adult safeguarding decisions.

A statutory advocate under the Mental Health Act 1983 (sections 130A-130D) appointed to support patients detained under most sections of the Act, on a Community Treatment Order, or under guardianship. Free, independent of the hospital. Advocates on the patient's wishes including treatment decisions and Tribunal applications.

The UK's independent regulator for data protection and information rights. Enforces the UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018, Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003, Freedom of Information Act 2000, and Environmental Information Regulations 2004. Can fine up to £17.5 million or 4% of global turnover.

Judicial Review is a type of court proceedings in which a judge reviews the lawfulness of a decision or action made by a public body. It is not an appeal on the merits of a decision but a challenge to the process by which the decision was made (e.g., on grounds of illegality, irrationality, or procedural unfairness). Claimants must usually obtain permission to bring a claim and must do so promptly, typically within three months.

A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that authorises a named person (the attorney) to make decisions on behalf of another person (the donor) if the donor loses mental capacity. There are two types: Property and Financial Affairs, and Health and Welfare. An LPA must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before it can be used.

Local Housing Allowance is the basis for calculating Housing Benefit or Universal Credit housing costs for private renters. The rate is set at the 30th percentile of local rents in each Broad Rental Market Area and depends on the number of bedrooms the claimant is entitled to based on their household size. LHA rates are reviewed annually and have been frozen in many areas, creating a growing gap between benefit levels and actual rents.

Limited Capability for Work (LCW) is a finding made following a Work Capability Assessment that a Universal Credit claimant's health condition or disability significantly affects their ability to work. Claimants with LCW receive a work allowance and are not required to look for work, though they may be expected to undertake work-preparation activities. Those with the more serious finding of Limited Capability for Work-Related Activity (LCWRA) receive a higher additional element and face no work-related requirements.

A form of property ownership where you own the property for a fixed period (the lease term) but not the land it stands on. The freeholder owns the land and charges ground rent and service charges. Most flats in England and Wales are leasehold. The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 strengthened leaseholders' rights.

The statute setting time limits within which civil claims must be brought in England and Wales. Most contract debts: 6 years (s.5). Tort: 6 years (s.2) or 3 years for personal injury (s.11). Mortgage principal: 12 years (s.20). Judgment debt enforcement: 6 years (s.24). Time runs from when the cause of action accrues.

The independent dispute resolution scheme for complaints about most council services and adult social care providers in England. Free for complainants. Investigates injustice caused by maladministration. Established under the Local Government Act 1974.

A child accommodated by the local authority under section 20 Children Act 1989 (voluntary accommodation) or section 31 (care order). Includes children in foster care, residential care, supported lodgings, and placed with parents subject to a care order. The council has parental responsibility (jointly with parents) for s.31 children.

Mandatory Reconsideration is a process by which the DWP reviews a benefits decision before a claimant can appeal to an independent tribunal. A request must normally be made within one month of the decision letter. The DWP must look at the decision again and issue a Mandatory Reconsideration Notice before an appeal can be lodged.

Match funding is a grant condition requiring the recipient to contribute a proportion of the total project cost from non-grant sources, such as earned income, private investment, or in-kind contributions. Common ratios are 1:1 (the applicant matches the grant pound for pound) or 2:1. Match funding demonstrates financial commitment from the applicant and extends the reach of public grant funding.

A form of alternative dispute resolution where an independent, trained mediator helps two parties reach a voluntary agreement. Unlike a court or ombudsman, the mediator does not make a decision — both parties must agree to the outcome. Mediation is now compulsory for most small claims in the county court (from May 2024) and is widely used in family, employment, and neighbour disputes.

The statute governing decision-making for people who lack mental capacity in England and Wales. Sets out the five statutory principles (s.1), the test of capacity (s.2-3), best interests decision-making (s.4), Lasting Powers of Attorney (s.9-14), Court of Protection (s.45-61), and Independent Mental Capacity Advocates.

The principal statute governing compulsory detention and treatment for mental disorder in England and Wales. Provides for civil sections (s.2 assessment, s.3 treatment, s.4 emergency, s.5 nurse's holding power), criminal sections (Parts 3), Community Treatment Orders, s.117 aftercare, and Mental Health Tribunal review. Amended significantly in 2007.

The First-tier Tribunal (Mental Health) that reviews compulsory detention under the Mental Health Act 1983 in England. The Tribunal can discharge the patient if the legal criteria for detention are no longer met. Free legal aid is automatic. Patients can apply once per renewal period; some hearings are automatic (e.g. after 6 months of unconvicted detention).

The Financial Conduct Authority's Mortgages and Home Finance: Conduct of Business Sourcebook Chapter 13 on arrears handling. Requires regulated lenders to treat borrowers fairly when in difficulty, consider forbearance options, and avoid repossession unless necessary. Breach is enforceable by the FCA and grounds for a Financial Ombudsman complaint.

The National Minimum Wage is the legal minimum hourly pay that most workers in the UK are entitled to. From April 2024, the National Living Wage rate (for workers aged 21+) is £11.44/hr. Lower rates apply to workers aged 18–20 (£8.60/hr), 16–17 (£6.40/hr), and apprentices (£6.40/hr). Employers who fail to pay the minimum wage face fines and must repay underpaid workers.

A notice period is the amount of time an employer or employee must give the other party before ending a contract of employment. Statutory minimum notice periods apply (one week per year of service, up to 12 weeks), and employment contracts often provide longer contractual notice. Employees must also give at least one week's notice after one month of service unless their contract requires more.

National Insurance contributions (NICs) are payments made by employees, employers, and the self-employed to qualify for certain state benefits including the State Pension, Statutory Sick Pay, and Maternity Allowance. Employees pay Class 1 NICs; employers pay employer Class 1 NICs on top; the self-employed pay Class 2 and Class 4 NICs. The number of qualifying years of contributions affects State Pension entitlement.

NHS Continuing Healthcare is a package of ongoing care arranged and funded solely by the NHS for adults outside hospital who have a complex medical or health need that is primarily health-related. Eligibility is determined by a multi-disciplinary team using a nationally standardised assessment framework, not by diagnosis or condition. If eligible, all care costs (including accommodation in a care home) are funded by the NHS; there is no means test.

NHS-Funded Nursing Care is a contribution paid by the NHS towards the nursing care element of care home fees for people who live in a nursing home but do not qualify for full NHS Continuing Healthcare. The standard weekly rate is £235.88 (2025/26). It is paid directly to the care home and is not means-tested. A person can receive FNC alongside local authority funded care or when self-funding.

An ombudsman is an independent, impartial official who investigates complaints about public bodies or organisations and makes recommendations to resolve them. In the UK there are several sector-specific ombudsmen including those for financial services, energy, housing, local government, and the NHS. Most ombudsmen are free to complainants and can order financial remedies.

Ofgem is the government regulator for the gas and electricity markets in Great Britain. It protects the interests of energy consumers by promoting competition and regulating energy network companies. Ofgem sets the energy price cap that limits what suppliers can charge per unit of energy to default tariff customers.

Ofcom is the UK's communications regulator, overseeing television, radio, telecoms, broadband, postal services, and online platforms. It sets the rules for licensed broadcasters, ensures minimum broadband standards, and handles complaints about communications providers where the provider's internal complaints process has been exhausted.

The Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner is the statutory body that regulates immigration advisers who are not solicitors or barristers. Anyone charging for immigration advice in the UK must be registered with the OISC or be a regulated legal professional. The OISC investigates complaints about immigration advisers, can impose penalties, and publishes a public register of authorised advisers.

Personal Independence Payment is a non-means-tested benefit for people aged 16–67 who have a long-term physical or mental health condition or disability that affects their ability to carry out daily living activities or mobility activities. It has two components (daily living and mobility), each payable at a standard or enhanced rate.

A probation period is an initial period of employment (typically three to six months) during which an employer assesses whether a new employee is suitable for the role. Employees retain employment rights during probation, including the right to the National Minimum Wage and protection from unlawful discrimination. However, rights that require two years of service (such as the right to claim unfair dismissal) may not have accrued.

PAYE is the system used by HMRC to collect Income Tax and National Insurance contributions directly from employees' wages before they are paid. Employers are responsible for operating PAYE, calculating deductions, and submitting Real Time Information (RTI) to HMRC on or before each payment to an employee. Errors or failures to operate PAYE can result in penalties.

The UK's points-based immigration system replaced freedom of movement for EU nationals after Brexit and applies to most migrants from all countries. It allocates points for characteristics such as having a job offer from an approved sponsor, meeting the salary threshold, and English language ability. Most work and study routes require applicants to accumulate enough points to be eligible.

Pension Credit is a means-tested benefit for people over State Pension age that tops up weekly income to a minimum of £227.10 for single people and £346.60 for couples (2025/26 rates). It has two parts: Guarantee Credit, which tops up income to the minimum level, and Savings Credit, available to those who reached State Pension age before April 2016. Pension Credit also acts as a passport to other benefits including Housing Benefit, Council Tax Reduction, and a free TV licence for those aged 75 or over.

A periodic tenancy is a tenancy that runs from period to period (week to week or month to month) rather than for a fixed term. It arises automatically when a fixed-term tenancy ends and neither party acts to end or renew it, or it can be created directly. Both landlord and tenant can end a periodic tenancy by giving the appropriate notice — for assured shorthold tenancies the landlord must give at least two months' notice under Section 21.

A personal budget is the amount of money a local council allocates to meet an adult's eligible care and support needs after a care needs assessment and financial assessment. It can be taken as a direct payment (managed by the person themselves), a council-managed budget, or a combination. Personal budgets are intended to give people choice and control over how their care is arranged.

The statute making unlawful eviction and harassment of residential tenants criminal offences. Section 1 creates the offences; section 3 requires court order before eviction of a residential occupier. Underpins all tenant security from forcible eviction in the UK.

Procedural rules under the Civil Procedure Rules requiring parties to take specified steps before issuing court proceedings. The Pre-Action Protocol for Mortgage Possession Claims and the General Pre-Action Conduct Practice Direction are the most relevant for residential housing disputes.

The independent ombudsman for complaints about NHS services in England (the 'Health Service Ombudsman' role) and UK government departments (the 'Parliamentary Ombudsman' role). Free for complainants. Established under the Parliamentary Commissioner Act 1967 and Health Service Commissioners Act 1993.

The nine grounds protected from discrimination under section 4 of the Equality Act 2010: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. Discrimination, harassment, and victimisation related to these characteristics are unlawful.

All the rights, duties, powers, responsibilities, and authority that a parent has by law in respect of a child (section 3 Children Act 1989). Mothers automatically have PR from birth. Fathers have PR if married to the mother at birth, named on the birth certificate (post-Dec 2003), or by court order/PR agreement.

Right to Rent is a legal requirement for private landlords in England to check that all adults living in a rental property have the legal right to be in the UK before a tenancy begins. Landlords must check and copy original identity documents. Failing to carry out checks, or letting to someone who lacks the right to rent, can result in civil penalties or criminal prosecution.

Right to Work checks are a legal requirement for all UK employers before taking on any new employee, regardless of nationality. Employers must see and copy specified identity documents (or use a digital Home Office check service for biometric residence permit holders) and retain records. Employing someone who does not have the right to work can result in a civil penalty of up to £60,000 per worker.

A redress scheme is a formal arrangement through which consumers can seek compensation or resolution of disputes with businesses, typically in regulated sectors. Mandatory redress schemes exist in areas such as property (The Property Ombudsman), estate agents, and new build homes. Membership of an approved scheme is often a legal requirement for businesses operating in those sectors.

A regulatory body is an organisation with statutory powers to oversee a particular industry or profession, set standards, issue licences, and take enforcement action against those who breach the rules. Examples include the FCA (financial services), Ofgem (energy), Ofcom (communications), the CQC (health and social care), and the Solicitors Regulation Authority. Regulators differ from ombudsmen in that they focus on systemic conduct rather than individual dispute resolution.

A Rent Repayment Order is an order made by the First-tier Tribunal requiring a landlord to repay up to 12 months' rent to a tenant or to the local authority where Housing Benefit or Universal Credit housing costs have been paid. RROs can be applied for where a landlord has committed certain housing offences, including letting an unlicensed property, failing to comply with an improvement notice, or engaging in unlawful eviction.

A restrictive covenant in an employment contract is a clause that limits what an employee can do after leaving employment — for example by prohibiting them from working for a competitor, poaching colleagues, or soliciting clients within a specified period and geographical area. Restrictive covenants are only enforceable if they go no further than is reasonably necessary to protect a legitimate business interest. Courts may strike down or narrow unreasonable clauses.

The Renters' Rights Act 2025 is the most significant reform of private rented sector law in England in 30 years. It abolishes Section 21 no-fault evictions, converts all assured shorthold tenancies to periodic tenancies, introduces a Private Rented Sector Database, caps rent in advance at one month, extends Awaab's Law to private rentals, and prohibits discrimination against benefit recipients and families with children.

A First-tier Tribunal order requiring a landlord to repay up to 12 months' rent to the tenant (or council if Housing Benefit funded) when the landlord has committed specified offences. Created by Housing Act 2004 and expanded by Housing and Planning Act 2016. Used against unlicensed landlords, illegal evictions, harassment, and breaches of improvement notices.

The Equality Act 2010 duty (sections 20-22) requiring employers, service providers, and others to anticipate and remove barriers that put disabled people at a substantial disadvantage. Adjustments must be 'reasonable' considering cost, practicality, effect, and resources. Failure is a form of disability discrimination giving rise to claims.

A Section 21 notice is a type of no-fault eviction notice served by a landlord under Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 to end an assured shorthold tenancy. It does not require the landlord to give a reason for ending the tenancy. The Renters' Rights Bill proposes to abolish Section 21 notices and reform the tenancy regime.

A Section 8 notice is a formal notice served by a landlord to end an assured shorthold tenancy by relying on one or more of the grounds listed in Schedule 2 of the Housing Act 1988. Grounds include rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, and breach of tenancy terms. Unlike a Section 21 notice, the landlord must specify the grounds being relied upon.

Statutory Sick Pay is the minimum amount employers must pay eligible employees when they are off sick. The current rate is £118.75 per week (2025/26) for up to 28 weeks. To be eligible, an employee must earn at least the Lower Earnings Limit (£123/week in 2025/26), have been off sick for four or more consecutive days (including non-working days), and have told their employer within their company's notification deadline.

Statutory Redundancy Pay is a minimum payment employees are entitled to if they are made redundant after at least two years of continuous employment. The amount depends on the employee's age, length of service, and weekly pay (capped at £751/week in 2025/26). Employees may also be entitled to notice pay and any outstanding holiday pay. Employers cannot discriminate in their selection for redundancy.

The Skilled Worker visa is the main work route for overseas nationals coming to the UK to work in an eligible role for an approved employer (sponsor). Applicants must have a job offer from a licensed sponsor, meet a minimum salary threshold (generally £38,700 from April 2024, with lower thresholds for some shortage occupations), and demonstrate English language proficiency. The visa can lead to settlement after five years.

A sponsor licence is required by UK employers who wish to employ overseas workers under most work visa routes, including the Skilled Worker visa. Employers must apply to the Home Office, meet eligibility requirements, and demonstrate that they have systems in place to fulfil their sponsor duties (such as record-keeping and right to work checks). Sponsors can have their licence suspended or revoked for non-compliance.

Safeguarding adults refers to the legal duty of local councils and other agencies to protect adults who have care and support needs from abuse or neglect. Under Section 42 of the Care Act 2014, councils must make enquiries whenever they have reason to believe an adult with care needs is at risk. The ten categories of abuse recognised include physical, financial, sexual, emotional, and organisational abuse.

A Section 13 notice is the formal mechanism by which a landlord of a periodic assured shorthold tenancy can propose a rent increase. The landlord must give the tenant at least one month's notice (or a full rental period for periodic tenancies longer than a month), and the increase can only take effect once per year. Tenants who consider the proposed increase above market rate can refer it to a First-tier Tribunal for determination.

Selective licensing is a scheme under Part 3 of the Housing Act 2004 whereby a local council designates an area in which all privately rented properties must be licensed. It can be introduced to tackle problems such as low housing demand, significant anti-social behaviour, high levels of migration, or high levels of deprivation. Landlords who let without a licence can be fined up to £30,000 per offence and may be required to repay rent under a Rent Repayment Order.

A settlement agreement is a legally binding contract between an employer and employee under which the employee waives the right to bring specified employment tribunal claims in return for a financial payment and/or other benefits. For the agreement to be valid, the employee must receive independent legal advice from a qualified adviser. Settlement agreements were formerly called compromise agreements.

The Start Up Loan scheme is a government-backed personal loan for individuals looking to start or grow a UK business. Loans range from £500 to £25,000 at a fixed interest rate of 6% per annum, repayable over one to five years. Applicants also receive free mentoring and support. The scheme is delivered by the British Business Bank through a network of delivery partners.

The Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme is a UK government scheme that offers tax reliefs to individual investors who buy new shares in qualifying early-stage companies. Investors can claim Income Tax relief of 50% on investments up to £200,000 per tax year, and Capital Gains Tax exemption on gains from SEIS shares held for three years. The scheme aims to make it easier for small, early-stage companies to raise equity finance.

A Subject Access Request is a right under UK GDPR allowing any individual to ask an organisation for a copy of all the personal data it holds about them. Organisations must respond within one month (extendable to three months for complex requests) and provide the information free of charge in most cases. The right can be limited where disclosure would adversely affect the rights and freedoms of others.

The minimum pay an employer must provide to eligible employees during maternity leave. Paid for up to 39 weeks: 90% of average weekly earnings for the first 6 weeks, then £184.03 per week or 90% of earnings (whichever is lower) for the remaining 33 weeks.

A charge paid by leaseholders to the freeholder or management company to cover the costs of maintaining and repairing communal areas, buildings insurance, and shared services. Service charges must be reasonable and properly accounted for. Leaseholders can challenge unreasonable charges at the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).

An informal track within the county court for claims of £10,000 or less in England and Wales. Designed for individuals to represent themselves without a solicitor. The losing side does not normally pay the winner's legal costs. Claims can be issued online through Money Claims Online. The court fee depends on the claim amount.

A no-fault eviction notice under section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 used by private landlords to end an assured shorthold tenancy. Requires Form 6A and at least 4 months' notice (from October 2021). The landlord does not need to give a reason. To be abolished by the Renters' Rights Act 2025 on the appointed day.

A ground-based eviction notice under section 8 of the Housing Act 1988. The landlord must cite a specific ground from Schedule 2 (17 grounds, some mandatory, others discretionary). Used for rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, damage, and other specified circumstances. Continues after the Renters' Rights Act 2025 with expanded grounds.

A scheme under Housing Act 2004 Part 3 allowing local authorities to require ALL private rented properties in a defined area to be licensed, regardless of HMO status. Used in areas of low housing demand or significant anti-social behaviour. The licence sets standards for management and amenity.

Free aftercare services that the NHS and council must jointly provide for life under section 117 Mental Health Act 1983 to anyone who has been detained under section 3, 37, 47, 48 or related forensic sections. Cannot be charged for. Continues until both bodies agree the person no longer needs aftercare.

Compensation due under section 162 Employment Rights Act 1996 to employees made redundant with 2+ years' continuous service. Calculated as 1.5 weeks' pay per year over age 41, 1 week per year aged 22-41, 0.5 weeks per year under 22. Weekly pay capped at £700 (2025-26); maximum 20 years' service counted.

A debt that can no longer be enforced through the courts because the limitation period under the Limitation Act 1980 has expired. For most consumer debts, after 6 years of no payment and no written acknowledgement, the debt becomes statute-barred. Mortgage shortfall is 12 years for the principal.

The statutory duty under section 42 Care Act 2014 requiring councils to make enquiries when an adult with care and support needs is at risk of abuse or neglect. Triggers a multi-agency adult safeguarding process leading to protective action.

TUPE regulations protect employees' rights when a business or part of a business is transferred to a new employer, or when a service is outsourced, brought back in-house, or transferred to a different contractor. Employees automatically transfer to the new employer on their existing terms and conditions, and continuity of employment is preserved. Dismissals connected to a TUPE transfer may be automatically unfair.

The Two-Child Limit restricts the child element of Universal Credit (and Child Tax Credit) to the first two children in a household for children born on or after 6 April 2017. Families with a third or subsequent child born before that date, or in certain exceptional circumstances such as multiple births or non-consensual conception, may still receive support for additional children. The policy has been criticised by anti-poverty campaigners as a significant driver of child poverty.

The legal requirement under the Housing Act 2004 sections 212-215 for landlords to protect tenant deposits in one of three government-authorised schemes (TDS, MyDeposits, DPS) within 30 days of receipt. Failure invalidates Section 21 and gives the tenant a court claim for 1-3 times the deposit amount.

The legislation banning most fees from private rented tenancies in England since 1 June 2019. Only specifically listed fees are permitted: rent, deposit (capped at 5 weeks), holding deposit (1 week max), late rent fees (after 14 days), default fees for breaches, change-of-tenancy fee (£50), and reasonable utility/communications charges.

The principal statute on trade unions, industrial action, and collective rights in Great Britain. Covers union recognition, ballots, picketing, secondary action, collective redundancy consultation (s.188), and the 25% Tribunal uplift for failure to comply with statutory codes (s.207A).

Universal Credit is a monthly means-tested benefit paid by the DWP that replaces six legacy benefits: Income Support, income-based Jobseeker's Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit, and Working Tax Credit. It is available to people who are on a low income, out of work, or unable to work, and adjusts automatically as earnings change.

Unfair dismissal occurs when an employer ends an employee's contract without a fair reason or without following a fair procedure. Employees with at least two years' continuous employment can bring a claim in the Employment Tribunal. Fair reasons for dismissal include capability, conduct, redundancy, breach of a legal requirement, and some other substantial reasons. Certain dismissals are automatically unfair regardless of length of service, including dismissal for whistleblowing or asserting statutory rights.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is a government funding programme that replaced EU Structural Funds following Brexit. It aims to reduce inequalities between communities, improve pride in place, and support the transition to a green economy. Funding is allocated to local authorities and combined authorities across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland to invest in people, communities, and local businesses.

A statutory claim under sections 94-134A Employment Rights Act 1996 for employees with 2+ years' continuous service whose dismissal lacked a 'potentially fair' reason or was procedurally unfair. Award includes basic award (calculated as statutory redundancy pay) plus compensatory award up to £105,707 or 52 weeks' pay (whichever lower).

The UK's retained version of the EU General Data Protection Regulation, which continues to govern personal data processing in the UK after Brexit. Sits alongside the Data Protection Act 2018. Eight individual rights including the right to access (SAR), rectification, erasure ('right to be forgotten'), restriction, portability, object, and rights related to automated decision-making.

The VAT threshold is the annual turnover level above which a business must register for VAT with HMRC. The threshold is currently £90,000 (from April 2024). Once registered, businesses must charge VAT at the appropriate rate (standard 20%, reduced 5%, or zero) on taxable supplies, file periodic VAT returns, and pay any VAT due. Businesses below the threshold may register voluntarily to reclaim input tax.

The Work Capability Assessment is a medical assessment used by the DWP to determine whether a Universal Credit claimant has limited capability for work or limited capability for work-related activity due to a physical or mental health condition or disability. It involves a questionnaire and usually a face-to-face or telephone assessment. The outcome affects the level of conditionality applied to the claimant and the amount of Universal Credit they receive.

Wrongful dismissal is a breach of contract claim arising from an employer terminating an employment contract in breach of its terms — most commonly by failing to give contractual or statutory notice (or pay in lieu of notice). Unlike unfair dismissal, there is no qualifying period of employment, and the claim can be brought by any employee. Compensation is typically limited to the loss suffered during the notice period.

A worker is an intermediate employment status between an employee and a self-employed person. Workers must personally perform services for an end client who is not a customer in a business the worker runs. Workers are entitled to key rights including the National Minimum Wage, paid holiday, and protection from unlawful discrimination, but not to rights that require employee status such as unfair dismissal protection or statutory redundancy pay.

A zero hours contract is a type of employment contract under which the employer is not obliged to offer any minimum number of working hours, and the worker is not obliged to accept any hours offered. Workers on zero hours contracts are still entitled to most employment rights including the National Minimum Wage, holiday pay, and protection from unlawful discrimination. The Worker Protection Act 2023 limits the use of exclusivity clauses in zero hours contracts.