{"id":23861,"date":"2025-08-01T16:14:41","date_gmt":"2025-08-01T15:14:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/?p=23861"},"modified":"2025-08-01T16:14:43","modified_gmt":"2025-08-01T15:14:43","slug":"hr-audit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/hr-audit\/","title":{"rendered":"HR audit : Ensure HR excellence with our updated checklist"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--has-illustration entry-header--has-illustration--generic\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__row row align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-lg-7 col-xlg-6 entry-header__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"component component-single-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__misc text--subtitle text--uppercase text--small\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/category\/people-leadership\/\" class=\"entry-header__link\">People &amp; Leadership<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"entry-title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tHR audit : Ensure HR excellence with our updated checklist\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"entry-header__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"single-post-details container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"posted-on \">Published <time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2025-08-01T16:14:41+01:00\">1 August, 2025<\/time><\/span><span class=\"reading-time\"> min read<\/span>\n\t\t<button\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\tclass=\"social-share-button button button--icon button--secondary js-social-share-button\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-title=\"HR audit : Ensure HR excellence with our updated checklist\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/hr-audit\/\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-text=\"Please read this interesting article\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__share-label\">Share<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-label\" hidden>Copy Link<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden>Copied<\/span>\n\t\t<\/button>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/header>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author has-dark-background-color alignfull\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"co-authors\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-author-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"entry-author\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/author\/yassirmalik\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2024\/03\/Yassir-Malik.jpg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" alt=\"yassir-malik-profile-picture\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Yassir Malik<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As your business grows, documents may pile up and the processes that depend on them can become cumbersome.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In all areas of a business, it\u2019s worth regularly re-evaluating those processes, and HR is no exception.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With the right approach, an HR audit can help you run a more efficient, fair, and employee-friendly operation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use this guide to learn what is required in a human resources audit, and let our UK-compliant checklist walk you through each step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Here\u2019s what we\u2019ll cover:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ?><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-what-is-an-hr-audit\" data-level=\"2\">What is an HR audit?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-when-and-why-you-should-conduct-an-hr-audit\" data-level=\"2\">When and why you should conduct an HR audit<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-hr-audit-checklist\" data-level=\"2\">HR audit checklist<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-why-a-checklist-helps-if-you-re-new-to-hr-audits\" data-level=\"2\">Why a checklist helps if you&#8217;re new to HR audits<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-how-hr-software-helps-automate-your-next-audit\" data-level=\"2\">How HR software helps automate your next audit<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-final-thoughts-turn-your-hr-audit-into-action\" data-level=\"2\">Final thoughts: Turn your HR audit into action<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-hr-audit-faqs\" data-level=\"2\">HR Audit FAQs<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Humanising HR: the magic of AI in empowering people and processes<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Harness the power of AI to boost HR efficiency and engagement, foster smarter decisions, and enhance human-centric processes.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-c6a6a685-0cf5-43df-947c-c76ac4a7969b\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Get your copy<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"429\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2024\/07\/Unlocking-the-power-of-AI-in-HR_eBookFrontCoverImage_3000546-WP.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Woman in HR\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2024\/07\/Unlocking-the-power-of-AI-in-HR_eBookFrontCoverImage_3000546-WP.jpg 429w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-an-hr-audit\">What is an HR audit?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An HR audit is a structured and detailed review of your HR practices, policies, and employee records.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It helps you assess whether your approach to people management aligns with current employment laws and your business goals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In effect, you\u2019re conducting a health check for your HR department\u2014identifying weak spots before they become major issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An audit can focus on specific areas like hiring or training, or it can assess the entire HR function from top to bottom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But it\u2019s a mistake to think of it as simply ticking compliance boxes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An HR audit helps you measure the effectiveness of your people processes and understand how your culture supports (or hinders) employee engagement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For instance, through the audit you might discover that your onboarding doesn\u2019t give new hires enough clarity, or that your data protection practices fall short of GDPR standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-when-and-why-you-should-conduct-an-hr-audit\">When and why you should conduct an HR audit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ideally, you should run an HR audit once a year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But it\u2019s also smart to schedule one after major changes in your business\u2014like rapid growth, a new team structure, or a shift to hybrid work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These milestones are praiseworthy, but can generate gaps in your policies or confusion around responsibilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An audit helps you keep pace, so your HR systems evolve properly with such developments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-good-housekeeping\">Good housekeeping<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regular HR audits help you prevent risk and fix problems early.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They highlight where things may not be working\u2014such as outdated job descriptions, inconsistent performance reviews, or missing documentation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-staff-wellbeing\">Staff wellbeing<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">More importantly, a well-timed audit shows you care about your people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It\u2019s a way to ensure every employee is supported, treated fairly, and aided in fulfilling their role.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It shows you&#8217;re serious about creating a healthy place to work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">How to run an HR audit step-by-step<br><br>We\u2019ll see later that there are many elements to consider in an HR audit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To be sure of getting all your ducks in a row, it pays to follow a standardised process for each audit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s a step-by-step guide:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-define-your-scope\">1. Define your scope<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Start by deciding what you want to review.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Are you focusing on legal compliance?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Or are you more concerned with things like employee records, hiring practices, or performance reviews?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You don\u2019t need to tackle everything at once\u2014a targeted review can be just as useful as a full-scale audit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Plus, by narrowing the scope you can treat each aspect more effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-collect-and-organise-documentation\">2. Collect and organise documentation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Next, pull together all the documents related to your chosen scope.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This might include employment contracts, policies, absence records, or training logs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The following section gives you a checklist of the most likely items to compile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Today\u2019s digital HR systems have the advantage of storing much of this information in a single, secure location.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-compare-against-legal-and-internal-standards\">3. Compare against legal and internal standards<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once you\u2019ve gathered your records, compare them against the latest employment legislation and your own company policies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Are your practices up to date?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are your contracts in line with statutory minimums?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check things like GDPR compliance, right-to-work checks, and equal opportunities policies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You should also assess how consistently your internal standards are being applied across teams or locations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-talk-to-employees-optional-but-powerful\">4. Talk to employees (optional but powerful)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You don\u2019t have to include staff interviews, but they can add real value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Conversations or anonymous surveys help you uncover gaps that don\u2019t always show up in documents\u2014like confusion around benefits, lack of clarity in job roles, or concerns about fairness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-document-findings-and-flag-risks\">5. Document findings and flag risks<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you review all the gathered material, make a note of the systems that are working well and those where there are efficiency issues.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some risks might be minor\u2014like a missing signature\u2014while others could need urgent attention, like outdated health and safety policies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use a simple traffic-light system (green, amber, red) to highlight what\u2019s fine, what needs tweaking, and what requires immediate action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-build-an-action-plan\">6. Build an action plan<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Finally, turn your findings into a practical action plan. Prioritise tasks based on the level of risk and the resources you\u2019ll need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Set clear goals, deadlines, and owners for each item.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A good plan doesn\u2019t just fix problems\u2014it improves how the HR department supports your business and your people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is the time to assess whether your <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/human-resources\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>HR software<\/strong><\/a> helps you execute these plans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Humanising HR: the magic of AI in empowering people and processes<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Harness the power of AI to boost HR efficiency and engagement, foster smarter decisions, and enhance human-centric processes.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-c6a6a685-0cf5-43df-947c-c76ac4a7969b\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Get your copy<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"429\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2024\/07\/Unlocking-the-power-of-AI-in-HR_eBookFrontCoverImage_3000546-WP.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Woman in HR\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2024\/07\/Unlocking-the-power-of-AI-in-HR_eBookFrontCoverImage_3000546-WP.jpg 429w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-hr-audit-checklist\">HR audit checklist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Every HR audit draws on key datasets from all stages of the employee lifecycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That\u2019s a lot of documentation to organise, so here\u2019s a checklist for guidance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are the core categories to review, including essential elements within each category.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-employee-records\">1. Employee records<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These are the foundations of your HR system, the first items to locate during legal checks or disputes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Employment contracts<\/strong>: you should have a signed copies of each employee\u2019s contract, as well as any updates to the contract. These must reflect current terms, including job title, pay, hours, and benefits.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Right to work checks<\/strong>: confirm all necessary checks were carried out and documented before the employee&#8217;s start date. This is a legal requirement for every hire.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Job descriptions<\/strong>: each role should have a clear, current job description outlining responsibilities, skills, and expectations. Review regularly as roles evolve and keep them updated.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-hr-policies-amp-documentation\">2. HR policies &amp; documentation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your written policies guide behaviour, support fairness, and protect your business. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They must be accessible and up to date.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Staff handbook<\/strong>: this should outline your core policies in plain language. Include sections on conduct, time off, equality, and grievance procedures.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Disciplinary &amp; grievance policy<\/strong>: ensure your approach is fair, consistent, and in line with ACAS guidance. Procedures should be clear to managers and employees alike.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Remote work policy<\/strong>: if you have team members who work from home or on flexitime, maintain policies that address expectations, equipment use, communication, and health and safety.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-payroll-amp-benefits\">3. Payroll &amp; benefits<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Payroll errors and benefit gaps are a major cause of employee grievances, potentially leading to costly claims and low morale.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regular checks ensure fairness and legal compliance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Holiday pay and tracking<\/strong>: confirm that leave is correctly calculated and recorded, including for part-time or irregular hours staff.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Statutory sick\/maternity pay<\/strong>: check you\u2019re applying the correct rates, notice periods, and eligibility criteria under current legislation.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pension auto-enrolment<\/strong>: make sure every eligible employee has been enrolled, with the right contributions taken and reported to the pension provider you selected for this option.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-recruitment-amp-onboarding\">4. Recruitment &amp; onboarding<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your hiring and onboarding processes shape each candidate\u2019s first impression. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">So once these systems are seen to deliver positive experiences, take steps to keep that consistent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>DEI and bias policy in hiring<\/strong>: the UK\u2019s 2010 Equality Act dictates that recruitment strategies should promote inclusion and fair treatment. And modern candidates increasingly prioritise these issues. Review how your job ads are written and how interviews are scored.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Onboarding process documents<\/strong>: new starters can get up to speed rapidly if induction plans are well thought-out, including equipment checklists and access to your company\u2019s internal policies.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Interview records<\/strong>: keep structured notes and scorecards for each candidate. This helps show objectivity and supports future hiring audits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-training-reviews-amp-performance\">5. Training, reviews &amp; performance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Employees value development opportunities and are likely to stay motivated if assessment methods are seen to be fair.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Neglect in this area can lead to frustration and attrition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Appraisal records<\/strong>: confirm that regular performance reviews have been held and documented. These should include clear goals and feedback.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Training logs<\/strong>: maintain a record of mandatory and optional training sessions, including dates, topics, and completion status for each employee.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Promotion process<\/strong>: check that progression paths are well-defined and have been communicated. Your audit should confirm that these policies are applied fairly across the team.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-offboarding-amp-retention\">6. Offboarding &amp; retention<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Offboarding procedures must protect the business, but when people leave you also have the opportunity to glean insights that drive improvement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Exit interviews<\/strong>: design these to capture structured feedback as to why people leave. Look for patterns that signal deeper issues.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Final pay and handovers<\/strong>: check that all final payments, including unused leave and bonuses, are correct and have been issued. The handover process should ensure responsibilities are covered, tools recovered, and knowledge shared with team members.<br><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Data retention processes (GDPR)<\/strong>: your retention policy should dictate how long personal data is kept after employment ends. Check that these limits are followed and confirm that sensitive data has been deleted or anonymised once the retention period expires.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta gated-content\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Humanising HR: the magic of AI in empowering people and processes<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><!-- wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n<p>Harness the power of AI to boost HR efficiency and engagement, foster smarter decisions, and enhance human-centric processes.<\/p>\n<p><!-- \/wp:paragraph --><\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-c6a6a685-0cf5-43df-947c-c76ac4a7969b\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Get your copy<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"429\" height=\"489\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2024\/07\/Unlocking-the-power-of-AI-in-HR_eBookFrontCoverImage_3000546-WP.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Woman in HR\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2024\/07\/Unlocking-the-power-of-AI-in-HR_eBookFrontCoverImage_3000546-WP.jpg 429w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-why-a-checklist-helps-if-you-re-new-to-hr-audits\">Why a checklist helps if you&#8217;re new to HR audits<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re managing HR alongside everything else in your business, a checklist gives you structure and confidence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It helps you focus on the right areas without second-guessing what\u2019s important or what you might have missed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You don\u2019t need a background in employment law to use one\u2014it\u2019s simply a practical tool to guide your review.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The checklist breaks a big task into smaller, clear steps, so you can track progress and avoid surprises.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">External auditors may even find the checklist useful to ensure they\u2019ve ticked all the boxes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-hr-software-helps-automate-your-next-audit\">How HR software helps automate your next audit<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We\u2019ve hinted already that specialised software like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/sage-business-cloud\/hr\/features\/core-hr\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Sage HR<\/strong><\/a> can guide you through the audit process and facilitate rapid access to the required documents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Looking at this aspect in greater detail, here\u2019s how the right tools can take care of key tasks:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-secure-storage-of-employee-files\">Secure storage of employee files<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Sage HR\u2019s <strong>Documents<\/strong> feature lets you upload and organise employee files in a central, protected library.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can set user permissions, track who\u2019s viewed or signed documents, and generate contracts or forms via templates with e-signature capability<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-alerts-for-missing-or-expired-documents\">Alerts for missing or expired documents<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Within the <strong>Core HR<\/strong> module, Sage HR lets you track right-to-work checks and other mandatory documents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can enable notification settings to alert admins when records are missing or due for renewal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-standardised-workflows-for-key-hr-processes\">Standardised workflows for key HR processes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You can create custom workflows for onboarding, performance reviews, promotions, and exits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These automate task sequences\u2014like sending welcome packs or returning assets\u2014so you never skip parts of the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-real-time-reports\">Real-time reports<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Because all employee data, task history, document uploads, and workflows are housed in one system, you can pull detailed reports on-demand.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Everything needed for an internal or external audit\u2014contracts, sign-offs, training logs or absence trends\u2014is readily available.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-final-thoughts-turn-your-hr-audit-into-action\">Final thoughts: Turn your HR audit into action<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Running an HR audit is partly about compliance, but more importantly, it\u2019s a good way to keep your business in shape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An audit can uncover risks before they escalate, improve how your team works, and boost employee satisfaction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Regular audits keep you prepared for whatever changes come your way\u2014such as new regulations, a sudden growth spurt, or a shift in how your people work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Start by copying our HR audit checklist and pick one section to focus on over a week\u2014like recruitment, training, or employee records.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Don\u2019t wait for signs of inefficiency to motivate you into taking this step.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-hr-audit-faqs\">HR Audit FAQs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-who-should-carry-out-your-hr-audit\">Who should carry out your HR audit?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You control all the documentation, so you can perform the audit yourself if absolutely necessary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, many businesses bring in external support for a fresh perspective. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Internal audits work well if you have an experienced HR lead and clear processes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you&#8217;re unsure about compliance or need a more thorough review, a specialist or outsourced HR consultant can guide the process and spot risks you may miss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-how-much-does-an-hr-audit-cost\">How much does an HR audit cost?<strong><\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Costs vary depending on the size of your business and whether you do it yourself or hire external consultants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A basic internal audit using HR software like <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/sage-business-cloud\/hr\/features\/core-hr\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Sage HR<\/a> can be low-cost and highly efficient.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Outsourced audits may range from a few hundred to a few thousand pounds, depending on the scope and complexity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some providers charge per audit; others offer it as part of an ongoing HR support package.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Subscribe to the Sage Advice newsletter<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Join more than 500,000 UK readers and get the best business admin strategies and tactics, as well as actionable advice to help your company thrive, in your inbox every month.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-b1a63862-3fa0-4a5e-bb67-c76b88bbc6b8\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Subscribe now<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<section class=\"more-topics alignfull has-grey-light-background-color wp-block-sage-post-topics\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-4\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"more-topics__title h2\">Browse more topics from this article<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-8\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"post-tags__list\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/hr-processes-medium-businesses\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHR processes for medium businesses\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/hr-process\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHR processes for small businesses\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/tag\/hr-payroll-benefits\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tHR, payroll and benefits\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<div class=\"alignfull wp-block-sage-related-posts\">\n\t<section class=\"related-posts card-grid has-dark-background-color\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--featured h1\">Explore more wisdom<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-0 post-23063 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations category-trends-insights tag-accountant-payroll tag-hr-payroll-benefits tag-payroll business_type-small-business business_type-medium-sized-business business_type-accountants card-post--is-clickable\"\n>\n\t<div class=\"card-post__media-wrapper\">\n\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-961279906-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"managing payroll tasks for the business\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-961279906-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-961279906-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-961279906-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"card-post__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__label\">Recommended<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-26T09:54:55+01:00\">26 June, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">12 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h3\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__title-link\"\n\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-are-payrolling-benefits-in-kind\/\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tPayrolling benefits in kind: What\u2019s changing from April 2027 and April 2028\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"card-post__description\">\n\t\t\t\tLearn what payrolling benefits in kind means, how it works, and how to stay compliant with all the new BiK changes with simple, actionable steps for your HR team.\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__non-featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--more h4\">More on this Topic<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-1 post-30434 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-people-leadership category-trends-insights tag-ai tag-recruit tag-hr-processes-medium-businesses tag-hr-process tag-hr-payroll-benefits tag-looking-after-your-employees business_type-small-business business_type-medium-sized-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/what-is-ai-in-hr\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/06\/Ai-in-HR-infographic-image-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"A woman poses in front of the Sage glow line and a black background.\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/06\/Ai-in-HR-infographic-image-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/06\/Ai-in-HR-infographic-image-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2026\/06\/Ai-in-HR-infographic-image-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-23T09:02:11+01:00\">23 June, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">10 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tWhat is AI in HR and how can you use it responsibly?\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-2 post-30414 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-free-guides-templates tag-accountant-payroll tag-hr-processes-medium-businesses tag-hr-process tag-hr-payroll-benefits tag-payroll business_type-small-business business_type-medium-sized-business business_type-accountants industry-hr-and-people-management industry-professional-services\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/sme-workforce-pulse-how-to-plan-pay-rises-you-can-keep-giving\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-143917299-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-143917299-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-143917299-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-143917299-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<svg role=\"presentation\" aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" width=\"24\" height=\"24\" class=\"card-post__meta-icon svg-icon\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path d=\"M11.988 2.989a.75.75 0 0 0-.739.761v10.689l-1.72-1.72a.75.75 0 0 0-.957-.099.75.75 0 0 0-.315.776c.031.146.104.28.211.384l3 3a.75.75 0 0 0 1.06 0l3-3a.76.76 0 0 0 .231-.533.74.74 0 0 0-.22-.538q-.108-.106-.247-.164c-.139-.058-.191-.057-.291-.056s-.198.022-.29.061-.174.097-.243.169l-1.72 1.72V3.75a.76.76 0 0 0-.22-.541.76.76 0 0 0-.542-.22zM5.75 8.5C4.24 8.5 3 9.74 3 11.25v7C3 19.76 4.24 21 5.75 21h12.5c1.51 0 2.75-1.24 2.75-2.75v-7c0-1.51-1.24-2.75-2.75-2.75h-3a.76.76 0 0 0-.537.216.74.74 0 0 0-.223.535.76.76 0 0 0 .223.535.74.74 0 0 0 .537.216h3c.699 0 1.25.551 1.25 1.25v7a1.24 1.24 0 0 1-1.25 1.25H5.75a1.24 1.24 0 0 1-1.25-1.25v-7c0-.699.551-1.25 1.25-1.25h3a.76.76 0 0 0 .537-.216.74.74 0 0 0 .223-.535.76.76 0 0 0-.223-.535.75.75 0 0 0-.537-.216z\" \/><\/svg>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-06-23T09:00:00+01:00\">23 June, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">8 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tSME Workforce Pulse &amp; how to plan pay rises you can keep giving\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-3 post-30011 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters tag-hr-payroll-benefits tag-looking-after-your-employees tag-payroll business_type-small-business business_type-medium-sized-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/how-many-work-hours-in-a-year\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-608166817-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"Women in a shop environment working on Black Friday promotions\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-608166817-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-608166817-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-608166817-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-05-08T16:53:28+01:00\">8 May, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">12 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tHow many working hours in a year UK 2026\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-4 post-4062 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations tag-hr-process tag-need-to-know tag-payroll tag-tax tag-vat business_type-small-business business_type-medium-sized-business business_type-accountants\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/new-tax-year\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1478421401-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"Working on business priorities\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1478421401-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1478421401-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1478421401.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-03-18T16:02:02+00:00\">18 March, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">11 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tNew tax year: Key changes and initiatives for 2026\/27\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>How frequently do you assess the way your business manages its people? An HR audit touches on compliance, risk, and the employee experience.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1774,"featured_media":23806,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_sage_video":false,"post_featured_image_hide":false,"sage_hide_published_date":false,"sage_hide_read_time":false,"sage_hide_share_buttons":false,"_pwl_sage_podcast_buzzsprout_src":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[10],"tags":[240,41,234],"business_type":[4,3],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[],"persona":[69,71,73,74,75],"imagine_tag":[92,217,218],"coauthors":[355],"class_list":["post-23861","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-people-leadership","tag-hr-processes-medium-businesses","tag-hr-process","tag-hr-payroll-benefits","business_type-small-business","business_type-medium-sized-business"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-gb","author_name":"Yassir Malik","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/10\/2025\/08\/Mar2025_Financial-Family-office_0746.jpeg","imagine_tags":{"92":"HR and Payroll","217":"HR processes","218":"Top HR resources"}},"distributor_meta":false,"distributor_terms":false,"distributor_media":false,"distributor_original_site_name":"Sage Advice UK","distributor_original_site_url":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog","push-errors":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23861","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/1774"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=23861"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/23861\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/23806"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=23861"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=23861"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=23861"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=23861"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=23861"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=23861"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=23861"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=23861"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=23861"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-gb\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=23861"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}