Welcome to the Wansbroughs Employment Law Update for September 2011. ACAS GUIDANCE ON SOCIAL NETWORKING
Over the last few years there has been a massive growth in the use of social media and social networking. Smart Phones, internet, tweeting and blogging have all become part of our working lives. This increase in the use of social media may have many advantages for businesses, for example, in relation to marketing, networking etc. However, its increase is causing significant issues and risks for employers. These include for example, loss of productivity if employees are allowed access during work, loss of reputation, breach of confidential information and discrimination claims. ACAS have recently published Guidance Notes on Social Networking offering tips on how to manage the impact of social networking in relation to managing performance, recruitment, discipline and grievances, bullying, defamation, data protection and privacy. There is also guidance on how to draw up a social media policy. A copy of the guidance can be obtained at http://www.acas.org.uk/index.aspx?articleid=3375. If you would like any advice or information in relation to managing the impact of social networking or if you would like a draft social media policy which can be used to set out guidelines for employees acceptable use of all forms of social media, for both business and personal purposes, please contact rebecca,peterson@wansbroughs.com or telephone 01380 733394. | 
