The Challenge
Handbooks often end up gathering dust—or worse, causing confusion because they’re full of legal jargon.
SMEs face real questions like:
- What do I have to include, and what can I simplify?
- How do I balance legal protection with tone that fits our values?
- Can I adapt a template, or will it get me in trouble?
- How do I make sure people read it—and actually follow it?
Your handbook should help, not hinder.
How LighterHR Helps
We help SMEs create handbooks that work—legally sound but written in plain English, aligned to your values, and used by your people.
What we do:
- Identify essential policies you need—and opportunities to reflect your culture
- Draft handbooks that are legal enough, but breezy enough to read
- Review existing handbooks to simplify language and update essentials
- Help you launch it to your team as a clear, helpful resource—not just a PDF
Clear, Practical Handbooks Your Team Will Actually Use
An employee handbook should be more than a list of rules—it’s a practical guide that helps your team understand how things work in your business. But many handbooks are long, full of jargon, and end up ignored.
At LighterHR, we create employee handbooks that are clear, compliant, and tailored to SMEs—so your people know what’s expected, and you’re protected if disputes arise.
Levels of Support
Choose the level of support that fits your needs:
Advisory – We help you understand what needs to go in—and what can stay out.
Guided – We draft your handbook and help you roll it out to your team.
Fully Managed – We create the full handbook, update as needed, and launch it with your people.
Why SMEs Trust Us
Legal clarity, but in language that’s actually readable by your team
CIPD-backed expertise tailored to SME needs, not corporate rulebooks
Speaks to culture – not bureaucracy
Saves you time and trouble with handbook that’s both protective and practical
Client Story
“LighterHR has been a great support to my business, from strategic direction to day-to-day HR matters.
They listen, take the time to understand my business and give me sound advice. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending LighterHR.”
Sophie Eastwood
Managing Director, Holistic Group
Key Questions
Can I just grab a free template online?
You can – but generic templates often miss SME-specific needs and may contain confusing clauses. We simplify the essentials, so you’re protected without the noise.
How often should I update the handbook?
We recommend an annual check-in—and if regulations or your operations change, we’ll help you keep it fresh and compliant.
What if I already reference the handbook in contracts?
We can align your handbook in a way that supports you – without unintentionally making everything contractual.
Take the Next Step
A good handbook isn’t a legal cover or a job done—it’s a living, useful document that supports your team and your business.