DMH Stallard Employment Law Updates

In this episode, our employment experts discuss the challenges for employers in a post-Covid world who are now asking their employees to return to office-based working. The Covid-19 national lockdown led to a dramatic shift in the way many businesses operate, initially with an immediate move to full home working, which has been followed by an extended period of flexible working practices. Almost 5 years on, the health and safety factors that drove the move to the flexible working patterns have long since disappeared, however huge numbers of office workers across the UK continue to adopt hybrid working practices. Employers who have tried to encourage increased days in the office on an informal basis have seen mixed results, leading many to consider whether a more formal approach is needed. For most office-based roles, it is now rare to see an employer mandate a five-day working week in the office. For many employees, it has become an expectation that they will still spend significant portions of their working week working remotely from home and have adapted their lifestyles accordingly.  A less flexible approach for employers can become a difficult issue for both recruitment and staff retention as a result. But has there been a shift in what employers want or need in recent times and is the current level of flexibility still the best fit for their businesses?  According to reports, Amazon has asked its admin team to return to the office full time from January 2025, rather than working two days from home. Tesco's has asked its staff to increase their office attendance, whilst sports retailer JD sports has asked its head office employees to work from the office for at least four days a week, rather than whenever they wish. What impact does it have from a legal and commercial perspective to get people back into the office? Are we about to embark on a shift back to office norms of pre-pandemic times? For those employers who do need more office based working moving forward, what challenges do they face after allowing more flexibility for such an extended period of time? Hosted by employment partner Abigail Maino, with employment partners Will Walsh and Greg Burgess joining the discussion to share their valuable insights. 

In this latest podcast, our Employment experts explore the complexities of managing relationships in the workplace including the legal and operational challenges for employers. We look at the potential risks and benefits of workplace relationships, and how best to manage them when things go wrong. With sexual harassment being a more significant focus due to new employer duties, we also look at the broader question of whether workplace relationships should be encouraged and the best practices to managing them effectively. Hosted by Employment Partner Adam Williams, with Employment Partners Rustom Tata and Abigail Maino joining the discussion to share their valuable insights.

Stephen ten Hove and Greg Burgess, both Employment Partners specializing in workplace law, delve into the Labour government's employment law reforms. They discuss the potential impacts on business practices and employee rights, including the ability to claim unfair dismissal from day one. The duo also examines the proposed expansions to equal pay legislation, highlighting complexities around implementation. They emphasize the need for employers to adapt proactively, as significant legislative changes may not materialize until 2025 or later.

In this latest episode, our experts explore the fascinating and complex world of artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on the workplace. The discussion highlights the rise of generative AI, like ChatGPT, and examines the associated risks, uncertainties, and opportunities it presents. Key topics covered in this episode include data protection, confidentiality, potential discrimination issues, and the limitations and inaccuracies of AI. The episode also addresses how businesses should navigate these challenges and leverage AI effectively while considering its implications for the workforce. Hosted by Employment Partner Abigail Maino and joined by Employment Partner Stephen ten Hove, along with guest speaker Andrew Hickey, an enterprise technology specialist who aids corporations in digital transformation and the adoption of emerging technologies such as generative AI.

In this latest episode, host Adam Williams delves into the pressing issue of modern slavery which can encompass various forms such as forced labour, forced marriage, debt bondage, human trafficking, and the exploitation of children. As awareness and legislative actions increase globally, organisations face growing pressure to address modern slavery within their operations and supply chains. This episode explores the evolving expectations from stakeholders and the challenges of prioritising issues without immediate financial returns. The discussion also touches on the broader context of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) frameworks, where the social element is gaining more importance. Our special guest for this episode is Colleen Theron, a tri-qualified lawyer and CEO of Ardea International. Colleen brings her extensive expertise in sustainability, business, and human rights to the conversation, sharing insights on compliance and voluntary initiatives. Also joining this discussion are Commercial Partner, Debbie Venn, and Employment Partner Rebecca Thornley-Gibson, who contribute their valuable insights on how organisations can lead in mitigating modern slavery risks.

Many businesses engaged in international trade are navigating through a period of significant change and uncertainty. Factors such as inflation, high interest rates, debt distress, geopolitical tensions, and international conflicts have created a complex landscape. In this episode, we delve into the risks and opportunities confronting businesses involved in global trade or aspiring to expand their international footprint amidst the current economic climate. Led by Employment & Immigration Law Partner, Adam Williams, and joined by Commercial Partner, John Yates, along with guest speaker Martin Hamilton, from Menzies LLP, our discussion explores the dynamic challenges and potential avenues for growth in the global marketplace.        

The discussion unveils the rising trend of company insolvencies, linking it to Brexit and inflation. Key steps for directors during financial struggles are highlighted, emphasizing the need for expert advice. A landmark Supreme Court case clarifies administrator liability, shedding light on their responsibilities. The challenges of balancing employee rights with creditor interests during insolvency are explored. Finally, the importance of early legal counsel is stressed to mitigate personal liabilities for directors and support businesses in distress.

In this podcast employment law specialists Greg Burgess and Simon Bellm delve into the key cases and developments from the past 12 months, and provide valuable insights on what to expect in the world of employment law in 2024.  This includes: An overview of the key cases and legislation from 2023: Government response to widespread industrial action Disciplinary and dismissal: a fair process Redundancy: consulting over the rationale for the proposed redundancy Disability discrimination: Asperger’s/dyslexia Without prejudice: when is the protection lost? Subject Access Requests: ICO Guidance updated Looking ahead to what is likely to come into effect in 2024: The Employment Rights (Amendment, Revocation and Transitional Provision) Regulations 2023 Flexible working reform Right to request predictable working pattern Non-compete clauses Guidance for employers on Menopause Fire and rehire Labour manifesto – reform of employment law Equality Act 2010 (Amendment) Regulations 2023 The Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act Introducing Fees in Employment Tribunals and EAT Changes to National Minimum Wage  New Paternity Leave Regulations Should you wish to receive a copy of the webinar slides please contact our marketing team.    

In this episode, our Employment team discuss the latest update on the retained EU law bill and the government’s proposals providing for changes to UK employment laws in respect of working time regulations, which is set to come into force on 1 January 2024. How will these proposals impact most, if not all, employers? Hosted by Employment & Immigration Law Partner, Adam Williams, with Employment Partners Stephen ten Hove and Rustom Tata also joining the discussion. 

In this episode, our Employment team discuss the evolving landscape of flexible working and the potential impact of the recent bill passed in parliament which allows employees greater flexibility as to where, when and how they work. We look at historical context of the statutory right to request flexible work and its perceived limitations, and also highlight the significant shifts in work patterns due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the emergence of the gig economy. What proactive measures can employers and HR professionals take to align their policies with the transformed workplace realities resulting from these recent developments? Hosted by Employment & Immigration Law Partner, Adam Williams, with Employment Partners Greg Burgess and Rustom Tata joining the discussion.