As we moved beyond the height of the pandemic, many businesses were seeking post-COVID HR guidance to adapt to new workplace expectations. This includes managing hybrid working, staff wellbeing and legal compliance. In line with the latest advice from ACAS, this guide helps employers navigate ongoing HR challenges in a post-pandemic world.
The pandemic significantly changed how businesses operate – from remote work policies to managing sickness absence and employee wellbeing. While the urgency of COVID-19 has passed, many of its HR implications remain relevant. Employers must stay aligned with best practices to manage hybrid workforces, ensure workplace safety and comply with updated health and employment law guidance.
ACAS guidance in 2025: What employers need to know
ACAS continues to provide crucial advice for employers on:
- Flexible and Hybrid Working
Many employees now expect flexible working as standard. ACAS offers guidance on managing remote teams, implementing hybrid models and dealing with flexible working requests fairly. - Managing Long-Term Sickness Absence (Including Long COVID)
Although COVID-19 is no longer a global emergency, some employees still suffer long-term effects. Employers must handle long COVID with the same care as any chronic illness, potentially under the Equality Act 2010. ACAS helps outline fair processes for support, absence management, and potential reasonable adjustments. - Promoting a Healthy Workplace Culture
The pandemic highlighted the importance of wellbeing and mental health. ACAS offers best-practice frameworks for building a culture of openness, resilience and support, especially for staff adapting to new working patterns. - Health & Safety Protocols
Employers must continue to provide a safe workplace. ACAS recommends clear policies for infection prevention, ventilation, risk assessments and employee communication – not only for COVID, but also for flu, RSV and other communicable illnesses. - Sickness Reporting and Sick Pay Policies
The temporary pandemic-related statutory sick pay changes have ended. Employers should review their sick pay schemes and ensure they’re up to date and legally compliant.
How People Matters HR can help
At People Matters HR, we stay informed so you don’t have to. Our HR consultants support SMEs and growing businesses by:
Updating contracts and handbooks to reflect current hybrid and flexible working practices.
Advising on sickness absence, health & safety responsibilities, and long COVID.
Providing templates, letters and documentation that align with ACAS guidance.
Helping you build a people-first workplace with robust performance and wellbeing strategies.
Follow the ACAS Coronavirus advice for more information.