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FAQs
1. What is included in your retained HR packages?
We offer four flexible retained HR tiers — CORE, ESSENTIALS, PREMIUM, and PREMIUM PLUS — designed to support SMEs and charities at every stage. All packages include ongoing HR advice, compliance support, and essential documentation, with PREMIUM and PREMIUM PLUS delivering greater hands‑on involvement and proactive HR partnership.
2. How do I choose the right retained HR package for my organisation?
CORE is ideal for organisations needing essential HR support. ESSENTIALS offers increased guidance and manager support. PREMIUM provides more proactive involvement across people processes. PREMIUM PLUS delivers the highest level of support, including strategic HR input and priority access. We help you choose the best fit based on your team size, risks, and goals.
3. What’s the difference between CORE and ESSENTIALS?
CORE includes fundamental HR advice, basic documentation support, and essential compliance help.
ESSENTIALS expands this with more regular HR guidance, employee relations support, and increased availability for manager queries.
4. What additional support is included in PREMIUM and PREMIUM PLUS?
PREMIUM offers proactive HR support, regular reviews, advanced employee relations guidance, and involvement across multiple people processes.
PREMIUM PLUS provides the most comprehensive HR support, including strategic planning, complex case management, tailored documentation, and priority response times.
5. Does retained HR include support with employee relations issues?
Yes. All packages include employee relations guidance such as sickness, conduct, performance, grievances, and capability concerns. PREMIUM and PREMIUM PLUS offer more hands‑on involvement, including meeting support and documentation.
6. How quickly can we start our retained HR service?
Most retained HR clients can start within a few days. Once you choose your package, we complete onboarding, review your documents, and begin providing support immediately.
7. Is there a minimum contract period for retained HR support?
We offer flexible monthly and annual options depending on your chosen package. Many SMEs and charities prefer monthly rolling support for flexibility and predictable budgeting.
8. Can we upgrade our package as our organisation grows?
Yes. You can easily move from CORE → ESSENTIALS → PREMIUM → PREMIUM PLUS as your HR needs expand. Many clients start small and increase their level of support over time.
9. Does the retainer include help with contracts, policies, and handbooks?
Yes. All packages include access to compliant HR documentation, with PREMIUM and PREMIUM PLUS offering more detailed updates, tailored documents, and proactive reviews.
10. Does the retainer include on‑site support or meeting attendance?
CORE and ESSENTIALS focus on remote support. PREMIUM may include virtual meeting support, while PREMIUM PLUS can consist of virtual or on‑site involvement depending on your needs.
11. Is retained HR suitable for charities as well as SMEs?
Absolutely. HR SPARK™ specialises in HR support for charities, non‑profits, and social enterprises, including safeguarding, volunteers, governance and sector‑specific compliance.
12. Why choose HR SPARK™ for retained HR?
We provide flexible, people‑first HR support tailored to small organisations. With practical expertise, sector knowledge, and a personalised approach, we deliver HR solutions that genuinely help SMEs and charities stay compliant, confident, and supported all year round.
