DC Talks

In this episode of DC Talks, Employment Partner Emma O'Connor and Regulatory Partner Benedicte Perowne explore the FCA's renewed focus on non-financial misconduct (NFM) and what it means for regulated firms.

The discussion examines the FCA's new rules, effective from 1 September 2026, which reinforce the regulator's view that behaviours such as bullying, harassment, discrimination, sexual misconduct and intimidation can be relevant when assessing an individual's integrity, fitness and propriety. Crucially, the FCA sees workplace culture as closely linked to regulatory outcomes, making NFM a governance and risk management issue rather than simply an HR concern. 

The episode highlights the practical steps firms should be taking now, including reviewing policies and procedures, strengthening governance frameworks, ensuring robust record-keeping, providing targeted training, and creating clear collaboration between HR, compliance and legal teams. The speakers also discuss the FCA's likely focus on supervisory scrutiny as firms embed the new requirements into day-to-day operations.

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© Copyright 2025 Doyle Clayton Solicitors Limited

In this episode of DC Talks, Emma O'Connor speaks with Jade Fisher-Ryner from The Wren Project about the importance of creating psychologically safe workplaces, particularly for employees living with long-term health conditions.

Drawing on both professional expertise and personal experience, Jade explains that psychological safety means creating an environment where employees feel able to speak openly about challenges, ask for support, and discuss workplace adjustments without fear of judgement or negative consequences. She highlights the value of trust, active listening, flexibility, and ongoing dialogue between employers and employees. 

The discussion explores practical steps employers can take, including focusing on the impact of a condition rather than the diagnosis itself, building high-trust relationships, promoting disability inclusion, and taking a proactive rather than reactive approach to employee wellbeing. The key message is clear: managers do not need to have all the answers, but they do need to create space for honest conversations, listen with empathy, and work collaboratively to find solutions that support both the individual and the organisation.

This episode offers practical, business-focused insights for employers looking to foster a more inclusive, supportive and engaged workplace culture.

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© Copyright 2025 Doyle Clayton Solicitors Limited

In this episode of DC Talks, Doyle Clayton’s education law team explains how they support parents, pupils and students with issues ranging from school admissions and safeguarding to university complaints and academic appeals.

They provide clear, practical guidance on resolving complex and often emotional situations, with a focus on early, effective outcomes—whether through negotiation or formal action where needed.

The discussion also highlights key trends, including AI-related misconduct cases, evolving special educational needs challenges, and the growing tension between free speech and student protections in higher education.

Overall, the episode emphasises expert, supportive advice to help individuals protect their education and future prospects.

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© Copyright 2025 Doyle Clayton Solicitors Limited

In this episode of DC Talks, Emma O’Connor explains how employers should approach flexible working requests in practice. She outlines the legal framework, highlights the need for a fair and consultative process, and explains when requests can be refused with clear, evidence‑based reasoning.

Looking ahead, she emphasises that flexible working is now a baseline expectation, with upcoming reforms increasing scrutiny on employer decisions—making a proactive, commercially aware approach essential.

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© Copyright 2025 Doyle Clayton Solicitors Limited

In this episode of DC talks, Emma O'Connor is joined by Doyle Clayton's Head of Technology, David Jackson and Senior Associate, Rosanna Proctor, to talk about AI in the workplace.

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© Copyright 2025 Doyle Clayton Solicitors Limited

In this episode of DC Talks, employment partner Emma O’Connor speaks with Julian Prentice, Head of Company, Corporate and Commercial Litigation at Doyle Clayton, about the key duties of company directors. Julian explains the core responsibilities set out in the Companies Act, including acting within powers, promoting the success of the company, avoiding conflicts of interest, and exercising reasonable care and skill. He highlights why these duties matter, the risks directors face if they misunderstand their responsibilities, and common situations that lead to disputes—such as conflicts of interest, team moves, or issues arising during financial distress. The discussion emphasises the importance of early legal advice and outlines how Doyle Clayton supports clients with governance and litigation involving directors’ duties.

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© Copyright 2025 Doyle Clayton Solicitors Limited

In this episode of the show, host Emma O’Connor breaks down the Employment Rights Act 2025, exploring the key updates employers and employees need to know for the year ahead. Emma takes a clear, practical look at what’s changing, why it matters, and how organisations can prepare to stay compliant and confident.

From updated workplace protections to new expectations around contracts, leave, and fair treatment, Emma guides listeners through the most impactful changes—translating legal updates into real‑world actions. Whether you’re an HR professional, a business owner, or an employee wanting to understand your rights, this episode offers essential insights in an accessible, easy‑to‑digest format.

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© Copyright 2025 Doyle Clayton Solicitors Limited

Key issues and practical considerations for employers in light of the Government's White Paper. 

With Emma O'Connor and Elizabeth Kynaston.

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© Copyright 2025 Doyle Clayton Solicitors Limited

Listen to the latest episode of DC Talks, where Emma O'Connor & James Murray discuss academic freedom of speech on campus.

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© Copyright 2025 Doyle Clayton Solicitors Limited

Listen to the latest episode of DC Talks, where Emma O'Connor & Anne-Marie Boyle discuss the benefits of workplace mediation.

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© Copyright 2025 Doyle Clayton Solicitors Limited