The UK's Employment Rights Bill represents the most significant shake-up of workplace protections in decades, and our latest podcast breaks down what employers and HR professionals need to know right now.

Andrew Whiteaker, Partner and Stacey Reay, Paralegal in the Employment team, dive into the crucial updates from recent government consultation responses that reveal important modifications to the original proposals. If you've been following the headlines about day one unfair dismissal rights, you'll want to hear the critical details about the differentiated approach and compensation structure that will apply during the initial nine months of employment.

Their conversation explores how collective consultation requirements for redundancies are evolving, with the government walking back from its initial proposal to eliminate the establishment test completely. They break down what this means for multi-site operations and how businesses should prepare for potentially tracking redundancies across their entire organisation.

Zero hours contracts face a complete overhaul, and they examine the three key protections being introduced, along with the confirmation that agency workers will be included, creating significant implications for businesses reliant on flexible staffing models. We also highlight several under the radar changes that haven't received as much attention but could substantially impact workplace practices.

The podcast takes a thoughtful look at the expansion of pay gap reporting beyond gender to include ethnicity and disability, exploring the practical challenges of data collection and the tensions that may arise for multinational organisations, particularly as US-owned businesses face increasing pressure to scale back diversity initiatives while UK legislation moves in the opposite direction.

Whether you're an HR professional, business leader, or employment lawyer, this episode provides insights into current UK employment law and prepare your organisation for compliance.

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In this series, Barry Stanton, Managing Partner, is talking to his European colleagues with whom he has worked on numerous projects about five things we should know about employment law in their country.

Today, Barry is joined by Matthijs Roest Crollius, Partner at Doorn & Keizer, an expert in Dutch employment law. Their discussion covers the process and legal requirements for termination and redundancy in the Netherlands, including the role of the UWV and the challenges of performance-based dismissals. Matthijs explains notice periods, severance rules, and the necessity of structured Performance Improvement Plans. 

The episode also explores employer obligations regarding sick employees, restrictions on termination during illness, and the risks of non-compliance. Additionally, the conversation delves into non-compete clauses, their enforceability, and potential legislative changes. Finally, they examine on-call and zero-hours contracts, outlining employer responsibilities and employee rights. 

Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe to our podcast to stay updated on employment law trends across Europe.

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In this episode of the Employment Pod, Helen Goss and Peter Olszewski discuss the legal implications of expressing controversial beliefs on social media and the impact on an employer's reputation. The case of Higgs v. Farmer School highlights the dynamic surrounding personal beliefs and workplace policies. For employers, this case shows the need to assess whether a belief itself is objectionable before taking action. 

They also explore the risks associated with workplace WhatsApp groups and best practices for employers. Confidential business and employee information may be shared improperly, and WhatsApp messages are legally disclosable in disputes. 

Social media and WhatsApp can be valuable workplace tools, but they also carry risks. Employers should take proactive steps to create clear policies that align with modern workplace communication trends. 

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In this series, Barry Stanton, Managing Partner, is talking to his European colleagues with whom he has worked on numerous projects about five things we should know about employment law in their country.

In this episode, Barry is speaking to his colleague Claire Taylor-Evans on employment law in the UK. The episode begins by highlighting that employment relationships can exist without written contracts, as verbal and implied agreements hold legal weight. The discussion covers the value of well-structured contracts, including protective clauses like restrictive covenants and extended notice periods.

The episode also addresses unfair dismissal rights, stressing the need for employers to follow proper processes when terminating employment. Changes to redundancy procedures are explored, including increased protections for employees on maternity and parental leave. Finally, the growing shift towards flexible working rights from day one is discussed, requiring businesses to adapt policies to meet employee expectations and legal requirements.

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Can returning to the office genuinely transform the workplace, or is it simply an attempt to revive pre-pandemic traditions?

Join Andrew Whiteaker and Helen Goss as they explore the shift from remote work to hybrid and office first arrangements, weighing the freedom of flexible schedules against the compelling push for in person presence to nurture company culture and ignite productivity.  They discuss the challenges businesses face in balancing employee preferences with organisational needs, and the necessity of making the office environment more attractive to foster collaboration and engagement. 

Later in the episode, the conversation delves into how American corporate policies surrounding diversity, equality and inclusion might seep into UK workplaces as cultural attitudes shift.

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In this series, Barry Stanton, Managing Partner, is talking to his European colleagues with whom he has worked on numerous projects about five things we should know about employment law in their country.

In today's episode, Barry is speaking to Harold Berrier from Ydès. French employment law involves numerous layers of regulations. Key highlights include: 

1. Regulatory Hierarchy: From Labour Code to employment contracts, understand the rules shaping workplace compliance.
2. Working Time: Explore the 35-hour week, overtime obligations, and flexible time arrangements.
3. Termination Risks: Insights into resignations, dismissals, and complex termination scenarios.
4. Service Provider Reclassification: Manage risks of misclassifying contractors as employees.
5. Employer of Record (EOR): Navigate the rules and risks of EOR arrangements.

Stay ahead of legal risks and tune in to this episode for insights on French employment law. 

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This episode focusses on TUPE transfers, especially concerning migrant/sponsored workers and their rights under immigration law.

Peter Olszewski, in the Employment team and Chris Harber in the Immigration team discuss the importance of early due diligence in managing these often missed responsibilities. They highlight the urgency for sellers to grasp their sponsor licence duties and for buyers to pinpoint sponsored workers even before the acquisition takes place. 

The ripple effects of a transfer can be profound, potentially forcing families to return to their home country if new employers do not assume sponsorship duties. Peter and Chris emphasize the need for empathy, proactive support, and ample communication to ease the burden and provide families with the dignity and time to plan their futures. 

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In this series, Barry Stanton, Managing Partner, is talking to his European colleagues with whom he has worked on numerous projects about five things we should know about employment law in their country. 

In this episode, Barry will be speaking to Daniela Hangarter-Sperling and Julian Leicht from Hangarter Legal, about German employment law. One of the main topics is that of "wet ink" signatures. In an era where digital reigns supreme, learn why Germany clings to this traditional requirement and how it could impact international employers financially. Daniela and Julian clarify the realities of statutory severance entitlements and reveal why many disputes end up in court to avoid the risk of employee reinstatement after protracted litigation and the employee receives a severance which is negotiated between the parties. 

Don't miss this chance to enhance your knowledge with expert advice into German employment law.

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In the latest episode of our podcast, Andy Whiteaker and Helen Goss will discuss protected conversations from the employer's point of view. They address common misconceptions about protected conversations. Many employers mistakenly label discussions as "without prejudice," potentially leading to constructive dismissal claims if not handled correctly. By examining the practical application of protected conversations under section 111a of the Employment Rights Act, the podcast provides best practices for employers to follow. 

Additionally, as the holiday season approaches, the stakes get higher with recent sexual harassment legislation reshaping the dynamics of workplace festivities. Join us as we explore the nuances of conducting protected conversations while ensuring a misconduct-free festive season. As employers prepare for the holiday season, the guidance provided in this episode will be instrumental in managing legal pitfalls and celebrating responsibly. 

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In this series, Barry Stanton, Managing Partner is talking to his European colleagues, with whom he has worked on numerous projects, about five things we should know about employment law in their country.

This episode, we have guest speaker Emanuele Licciardi from Morri Rossetti in Milan. Together, they shed light on the complexities of workplace investigations and performance management within Italy's legal framework. They provide a comprehensive exploration of non-compete agreements, business transfers, and the response to business delocalization, making it an essential listen for employers and legal professionals alike. 

Whether you're an employer in Italy or simply curious about international employment law, this episode delivers essential knowledge and expert advice. 

Episode Links

• Visit our website
• Contact us
• Our Employment services
• Our HR training