Hiring your first employee?
Let’s get the essentials right — calmly, legally, and properly.
You’re not overthinking this.
Hiring your first employee is a big deal — and it comes with legal responsibilities that most small business owners aren’t told clearly.
If you’re worrying about contracts, sick pay, payroll, or whether you’ve missed something important, you’re not alone.
Lowarn HR helps small businesses across Cornwall & Devon put the right HR foundations in place from day one — without overwhelm, jargon, or guesswork.
What's actually at stake?
When someone becomes your employee, you’re legally required to have certain things in place — and many businesses only realise what’s missing when a problem crops up.
Common worries I see every week:
- “Do I legally need a contract?”
- “What if they go off sick?”
- “Have I set this up properly?”
- “What happens if it doesn’t work out?”
This page exists so you don’t have to wing it.
Why Lowarn HR?
There are lots of HR providers out there. Lowarn HR is different because:
- I work with small businesses and first‑time employers only
- I explain things in plain English
- I don’t upsell fear, tribunals, or long retainers
- You deal with one person who knows your business
You don’t need corporate HR.
You need calm, honest, local support — and that’s exactly what I offer.
Whos this for?
This is likely right for you if:
- You’re hiring your first employee
- This is especially helpful if you’re a new or growing business without in‑house HR support.
- Or you already have one but feel unsure things are set up correctly
- You want to get things right without becoming an HR expert
- You value people‑first, sensible advice
If you’re a large business or already have an in‑house HR team, this probably isn’t for you — and that’s okay.
What I help you put in place
The Compliance Starter Pack
Everything you need to hire your first employee safely
This is for businesses who want the basics done properly — not copied, rushed, or guessed.
It typically includes:
- ✅ A legally compliant employment contract
- ✅ A simple, fit‑for‑purpose staff handbook
- ✅ Core HR policies you actually need
- ✅ Clear guidance on your responsibilities as an employer
- ✅ Peace of mind that you’re set up correctly
I’ll walk you through what applies to your business — and what doesn’t.
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Ready to get this sorted?
Book a no‑pressure chat and we’ll talk through where you’re at and what you actually need.