Our October employment law newsletter is out now, covering issues that matter to employers right now: how to conduct a fair disciplinary hearing, what a recent tribunal decision says about relying too heavily on absence policies, why internal messages could be disclosed through a Subject Access Request, and the Employment Rights Act 2025 changes taking effect this month. Download full newsletter here.
Getting disciplinary hearings right
With changes to unfair dismissal rights coming into effect from 1 January 2027, the disciplinary hearing is where many unfair dismissal findings arise. We walk through each stage, from choosing the right decision-maker and writing a clear invitation, to respecting the right to be accompanied, holding a genuine hearing and reaching a balanced decision on sanction.
Caroline v ICTS (UK) Ltd: when policy becomes “tunnel vision”
An airport security supervisor was awarded almost £38,000 after being dismissed under an attendance management procedure, despite the employer following its policy. We look at where the employer went wrong, including failing to investigate a possible underlying medical condition, consider alternatives to dismissal or assess the real business impact, and the practical lessons for managers.
Subject Access Requests: write every message as though your employee might read it
Subject Access Requests from current and former employees are rising sharply, often with AI tools encouraging employees to submit them. We explain what can be disclosed, including emails and Teams or Slack messages between managers, why careless comments can undermine your position, and where legal professional privilege applies.
Employment Rights Act 2025: what’s changing this October
A quick recap of the provisions now in force or arriving on 30 October, including liability for third party harassment, the stronger duty to prevent sexual harassment, the extended time limit for tribunal claims and trade union workplace access, plus the change that has been pushed back to January 2027.
How we can help
Our HR and employment teams support employers with all of the above, from managing disciplinary and capability proceedings to responding to Subject Access Requests and defending tribunal claims. Our HR Support Service also gives you ongoing access to experienced HR professionals and employment lawyers, helping you stay compliant and act with confidence as your business grows.