Quick answer: Peninsula is a large national HR and employment-law provider used by tens of thousands of UK employers, best suited to businesses that want a 24/7 advice line and a big-brand contract. Beagle HR is a founder-led Surrey consultancy for SMEs that prefer fixed fees, no retainer minimums, and direct access to a named adviser. If you value scale and a round-the-clock helpline, look at Peninsula. If you value a local, personal and flexible relationship, Beagle HR is likely the better fit.
Side by side
| What to compare | Peninsula | Beagle HR |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Larger or higher-volume employers wanting a national brand | Surrey and South East SMEs wanting hands-on, local support |
| Who you deal with | A team and an advice line; your adviser can vary | Dan and a small named team who know your business |
| Contracts | Typically multi-year service agreements | Flexible, no retainer minimums, fixed-fee options |
| Access | 24/7 telephone advice line | Direct phone and email in working hours, plus an urgent line |
| Pricing style | Quoted per business, often bundled with software | Published starting prices, fixed fees per piece of work |
| Local presence | National | On Weybridge High Street; visits in person for audits and hearings |
| Extras | HR software, health and safety, legal expenses insurance | Breathe HR setup, manager toolkits, sector experience |
When Peninsula may suit you better
- You want a genuine 24/7 helpline.
- You are a larger employer with constant, high-volume HR activity.
- You want HR, health and safety and insurance bundled into one national contract.
When Beagle HR is the better fit
- You are an SME that wants a named person who knows your business.
- You dislike long contracts and prefer fixed fees with no minimums.
- You value local, sector-aware advice and in-person support when it matters.
Frequently asked questions
Is Beagle HR cheaper than Peninsula?
Beagle HR publishes fixed starting prices, with retained support from £249 per month. Peninsula quotes per business and often bundles software, so compare on total cost and contract length rather than headline price.
Can I switch from Peninsula to Beagle HR?
Yes. Check your current notice period and contract end date first. Beagle HR can then run a compliance audit and take over your contracts and policies.
Does Beagle HR offer a 24/7 advice line?
No. You get direct working-hours access to a named adviser, plus an urgent line. If round-the-clock cover is essential, a national provider may suit you better.
Both are legitimate choices. The right one depends on your size, how much daily HR you have, and whether you value a helpline or a relationship. Details and pricing change, so confirm current terms with each provider.