Shows
The Brightmine Podcast (UK)HR priorities for 2026 – top tips for a great year What's on the horizon for HR and reward professionals in 2026? In this episode, Brightmine experts Bar Huberman and Sheila Attwood break down the latest research and reveal the top priorities shaping the year ahead. Plus, CEO Scott Walker joins the conversation to explore one of the most transformative trends of recent years - AI in the workplace. Tune in for actionable insights, expert analysis, and a look at what's next for HR strategy. Related resources On your radar - Employment Rights Bill updates and HR mythbusting How to lead...
2025-12-1028 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Employment Rights Bill – preparing for the April 2026 changesJoin the Brightmine team as they guide listeners through the Employment Rights Bill's bumpy journey through Parliament and offer practical advice on how HR professionals can prepare for the legislative changes expected to come into force in early 2024. Stay ahead of the curve as our experts break down what's changing - from trade union rules and sick pay to family leave and whistleblowing protections - and get actionable tips to keep your organisation compliant. Read the transcript Resources On your radar - Employment Rights Bill updates and HR mythbusting H...
2025-12-0129 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Employment Rights Bill – the whats and whens of the trade union-related reformsWith the Employment Rights Bill nearing the end of its journey through Parliament, Laura Merrylees, senior legal editor at Brightmine, is joined by Nick Chronias, a partner at DAC Beachcroft, to discuss the Bill's many trade union-related changes and provide a phase-by-phase guide to how HR departments can prepare for their implementation. Read the transcript Related resources Employment Rights Bill: 10 key policies employers need to revamp On your radar: Employment Rights Bill updates and HR mythbusting Podcast: Employment Rights Bill - where we are now, what to expect next
2025-11-1733 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Rethinking how your organisation supports new parentsDoes your organisation provide fair and equal leave and pay for all new parents? The Government has launched a full 18-month review of family-related leave and the Employment Rights Bill is set to introduce some changes in this area. In the meantime higher expectations among the workforce appear to be prompting organisations to take matters into their own hands and to develop ambitious new policies. In this episode of the podcast Zeba Sayed, senior legal editor at Brightmine, talks to Becs Peedell, employment lawyer at Lewis Silkin, about her organisation's equal new parent policy...
2025-11-0321 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)EU Pay Transparency Directive – what is it and what does it mean for employers in the UK?Ro Carracedo Lopez, senior International legal editor at Brightmine, discusses the EU Pay Transparency Directive, how member states are adopting its provisions into national law and · not least · its implications for UK organisations with Wouter Heere, Associate at Littler Netherlands, and Rui Rego Soares, Associate lawyer at Littler Portugal. Related resources Global EU pay transparency directive implementation comparative table Demystifying the EU Pay Transparency Directive for UK employers Podcast: Gender pay gap reporting - a global view
2025-10-1634 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Probationary periods: lessons from recent tribunal casesUK employment law is evolving - are you prepared? In our latest podcast, Susie Munro, senior legal editor at Brightmine, looks at three recent tribunal cases relating to probationary periods, and discusses the upcoming introduction of a day-one right to claim unfair dismissal. We share actionable insights, real tribunal stories and practical steps to help your organisation stay compliant and competitive. Listen now to future-proof your HR strategy! Read the transcript Related resources On your radar - Employment Rights Bill updates and HR mythbusting Webinar: Getting probationary periods right a...
2025-09-1725 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Employment Rights Bill – trade unions and workers' rightsThis episode of the Brightmine podcast features Shantha David, Head of Legal Services at UNISON, in conversation with Robert Shore and Laura Kimpton. We dive into how the Bill is reshaping UK employment law, and explore the implications for HR. Shantha has won landmark victories in the Supreme Court that have reshaped the legal landscape. Her work champions equity, dignity and justice for workers across the public sector. Read the transcript What to read, listen to and watch next On your radar April 2025 employment law changes: Five-point checklist for HR ...
2025-07-3033 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Essential talent-retention strategies - from secondments to talent pathwaysJoin us on the podcast as Jeya Thiruchelvam, Internal Communications and Engagement Lead at Brightmine, shares powerful insights on how organisations can truly harness the full potential of their people. Discover how employees can grow, thrive, and elevate their careers · all without changing employers. It's a conversation about talent, transformation, and the future of work you won't want to miss. Download the transcript Related Brightmine resources Managing retention: Creating a retention strategy Leadership development: A driver of business success Four steps HR can take to help businesses and employees e...
2025-06-3023 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Employment Rights Bill – what's new, what's been dropped? In October 2024 the Government launched a major overhaul of employment law in the form of the Employment Rights Bill. A number of important amendments have been introduced since the proposed legislation was first published. Stephen Simpson, principal editor at Brightmine, joins the podcast to provide an update and help HR departments prepare for the changes. Download the transcript What to read, listen to and watch next On your radar April 2025 employment law changes: Five-point checklist for HR Podcast: Neonatal care leave - a practical guide Webinar: Ethnicity data...
2025-04-1726 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Tribunal round-up - disability-related absenceSusie Munro, senior legal editor at Brightmine, looks at three cases where employers have lost "discrimination arising from disability" claims after treating workers unfavourably because of disability-related absence. Related resources Disability-related absence: Tribunal round-up On your radar Disability discrimination - line manager training
2025-03-1920 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Tribunal round-up - disability-related absenceSusie Munro, senior legal editor at Brightmine, looks at three cases where employers have lost "discrimination arising from disability" claims after treating workers unfavourably because of disability-related absence. Related resources Disability-related absence: Tribunal round-up On your radar Disability discrimination - line manager training
2025-03-1820 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)The criminally overlooked potential of ex-offenders in the workforceA significant proportion of the population have criminal records. So what are the legal requirements when thinking about recruiting someone with a spent or unspent conviction? And are employers that shy away from engaging with ex-offenders failing to make use of a valuable resource and even damaging their organisations? Debbie Sadler of Unlock and Brightmine senior legal editor Laura Merrylees join the podcast to discuss these questions and more. Related resources Job applicants with convictions Recruitment of people who have criminal record policy Six key takeaways from the 2023 CIPD conference
2025-02-0431 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Supporting neurodiversity in the workplaceLaura Kimpton, HR strategy and practice editor at Brightmine, discusses how organisations, and line managers in particular, can support and champion neurodiversity in the workplace. Topics include: employers' legal duties under the Equality Act; the value of adopting a "needs-led" approach; making reasonable adjustments; approaches to onboarding and communication. Read the transcript Related resources Neurodiversity policy Introduction to neurodiversity - line manager training Supporting neurodivergent candidates - line manager training Onboarding: Workplace orientation - line manager checklist Tailored reasonable adjustments plan for disabled employee
2024-12-1122 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)What changes should HR prepare for from the Employment Rights Bill?The Labour Government published its highly anticipated Employment Rights Bill on 10 October 2024. In this edition of the podcast, Brightmine employment law experts Zeba Sayed and Stephen Simpson analyse the key proposals in the Bill and offer advice on how HR can begin to prepare for the changes. Read the transcript The accompanying slides can be downloaded here Related resources Podcast: Employment Rights Bill Q&A Employment Rights Bill published: 10 highlights for HR from the first draft On your radar Webinar: Employment Rights Bill – how HR can g...
2024-11-2041 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Employment Rights Bill Q&AThe Labour Government published its highly anticipated Employment Rights Bill on 10 October 2024. In this edition of the podcast, Brightmine employment law experts Zeba Sayed and Stephen Simpson answer questions on different aspects of the Bill, from the timeline for the measures coming into effect to the nuances of the proposed unfair dismissal and fire and rehire changes. Read the transcript Related resources On your radar Podcast: What changes should HR prepare for from the Employment Rights Bill? Employment Rights Bill published: 10 highlights for HR from the first draft ...
2024-11-2032 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Employment tribunal cases - dismissals following employee mistakesBags for life, tea containing a surprising substance and more: Susie Munro, senior legal editor at Brightmine, discusses four recent employment tribunal cases where employees were dismissed for misconduct after making what they said were mistakes. Related resources Misconduct dismissals following employee mistakes: Employment tribunal round-up How does a tribunal gauge whether an employee has been unfairly dismissed on the basis of misconduct? Misconduct - line manager training
2024-07-1618 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Whistleblowing during the COVID-19 pandemicDavid Whincup, partner and head of employment at the London office of law firm Squire Patton Boggs, discusses the key elements of a whistleblowing complaint, and shares his tips on how employers can deal effectively with protected disclosures in the context of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
2020-08-0430 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Exploring the impact of Black Lives Matter on diversity and inclusionRoianne Nedd, a diversity and inclusion expert, explores the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement. We discuss the concepts of white privilege and white fragility; how to be an effective ally; how organisations translate powerful conversations into meaningful action; and practical steps that organisations can take in the context of both recruitment and capability.
2020-07-1433 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Understanding flexible furloughDarren Newman, employment lawyer, discusses how flexible furlough will work under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme from 1 July 2020.
2020-06-3031 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Meeting health and safety duties as lockdown is liftedMary Lawrence, partner at law firm Osborne Clarke, joins us to discuss the key health and safety issues for HR professionals during the lifting of the coronavirus (COVID-19) lockdown.
2020-06-2533 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Brexit - preparing your workforce for the end of the transition periodLouise Haycock, immigration solicitor, discusses the steps that organisations need to take now to prepare their workforce for the effects of Brexit, including applying for sponsor licences, dealing with the implications of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on immigration, and other general workforce planning issues.
2020-06-2313 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Coronavirus and your workforce podcast: Engaging with employeesVictoria Lewis, chief executive at bryne-dean, joins us to talk about employee engagement and what it means during the coronavirus pandemic. She offers her unique insight into how HR can ensure employees continue to feel engaged, many of whom will be facing enduring challenges at this time.
2020-06-1018 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Coronavirus and your workforce podcast: Supporting employees who have suffered a bereavementAndy Langford, clinical director at Cruse Bereavement Care, joins us to discuss the impact of grief in the workplace, and the added challenges in the current climate of social distancing as a result of the coronavirus pandemic. He offers sound, practical advice on supporting employees who have suffered a bereavement as a result of, or during, the coronavirus pandemic.
2020-06-0319 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Consulting collectively with a remote workforceNick Chronias, partner at DAC Beachcroft, guides you through the legal and practical considerations of running a collective consultation process with a remote workforce.
2020-06-0230 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Coronavirus and your workforce podcast: Managing annual leaveDarren Newman, employment lawyer, discusses the legal and practical considerations of managing annual leave during the coronavirus pandemic. Darren explores the law in this area, including the new right for certain employees to carry over their annual leave entitlement. He also discusses the extent to which employers are able to compel employees to take holiday at designated times, and an employer's right to postpone holiday requests.
2020-05-2821 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Coronavirus and your workforce podcast: When is a furloughed employee "working"?Jo Broadbent, counsel knowledge lawyer at Hogan Lovells, discusses what constitutes "work" under the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, and explores some of the common, tricky scenarios that employers face during periods of furlough including: communicating with employees; undertaking different types of training; conducting different types of HR process; and dealing with employees who may wish to work.
2020-05-0624 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Complying with UK immigration requirements during COVID-19Louise Haycock, immigration solicitor and partner at law firm Fragomen, outlines what employers need to think about in relation to UK immigration requirements during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and discusses the practical steps that organisations can take around compliance.
2020-05-0517 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Managing disciplinary, grievance and performance processes remotelyDarren Newman, employment lawyer, discusses how employers can manage disciplinary, grievance and performance management processes remotely during the coronavirus (COVID-19) crisis. Darren provides practical advice on some of the common challenges faced by HR and line managers, including issues relating to the postponement of processes, and how to ensure fairness when conducting a hearing remotely.
2020-04-2828 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)How HR is dealing with the COVID-19 pandemicMark Crail, content director at XpertHR, takes us through the findings of our two most recent surveys exploring how HR is dealing with the challenges thrown up by the coronavirus pandemic.
2020-04-2012 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Coronavirus and your workforce podcast: We answer your questionsMax Winthrop, partner and head of the employment law team at Short, Richardson and Forth LLP, answers your questions on the impact of the coronavirus on your workforce, including latest guidance on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme, annual leave, short-time working and emergency volunteer leave.
2020-04-0618 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Parental bereavement leaveJo Broadbent, counsel knowledge lawyer at Hogan Lovells, discusses the right to parental bereavement leave.
2020-04-0215 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and furloughing workersDarren Newman, employment lawyer, discusses the Government guidance on the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and furloughing workers. Darren takes you through the key features of the scheme and discusses tricky issues, including the process of selecting employees to be furloughed.
2020-03-3029 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Coronavirus and your workforce podcast: School closures and the job retention schemeCatriona Aldridge, senior associate at law firm CMS, outlines latest developments introduced as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic - including school closures and the Government's Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and what these mean for employers.
2020-03-2317 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Key metrics for the HR professionSenior HR practice editor, Noelle Murphy, takes us through the latest findings from XpertHR's annual survey of HR roles and responsibilities. We discuss key metrics for the profession, including the ratio of HR practitioners to employees, budgets and priorities over the coming 12 months. We also discuss the impact of the coronavirus on planned priorities for the HR function.
2020-03-1712 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Dealing with the impact of coronavirus in the workplaceDarren Newman joins us to discuss how employers can deal with the special circumstances created by the coronavirus (COVID-19), including the implications for statutory sick pay when an employee chooses to self-isolate and when the employer has to instruct an employee to self-isolate.
2020-03-0621 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Right to suspendNick Chronias discusses the right to suspend employees pending a disciplinary investigation, including the issues to consider before, during and after a suspension.
2020-03-0317 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Supporting employees experiencing the menopauseHelen Rice-Birchall, principal associate in the human resources practice group at Eversheds Sutherland, joins us to outline the steps that employers need to take to fairly manage an employee experiencing symptoms of the menopause.
2020-02-1811 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Non-religious beliefs in the workplaceEmma O'Connor, senior associate at law firm Boyes Turner, discusses the legal and practical implications for employers of the recent employment tribunal case involving a philosophical belief in ethical veganism.
2020-02-0418 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Key employment cases for 2020Which employment cases will have the biggest impact on HR in 2020? We assess the likely impact on employers of upcoming cases on: the national minimum wage, data protection, age discrimination, collective bargaining, and TUPE. The 2020 cases that we discuss pose the following questions: Are sleep-in care workers entitled to the national minimum wage while asleep? Can an employer be vicariously liable for the actions of a rogue employee who publishes the personal data of co-employees online? Is a public-sector employer looking to cut costs able to use the "absence of financial means" to justify a discriminatory...
2020-01-2121 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Equal payCatriona Aldridge, Senior Associate at law firm CMS, joins us to discuss the legal and practical issues that employers need to think about in relation to equal pay.
2020-01-0718 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Duty to make reasonable adjustments for disabled workersHow far should employers go in meeting their obligations to make reasonable adjustments for disabled workers? What does the law mean by "provision, criterion or practice"? What factors should employers take into account when deciding what adjustments to make? Drawing on examples from case law, we discuss some key do's and don'ts when making reasonable adjustments. In particular, we discuss how the duty extends to job applicants as well as current employees; the practicalities of making adjustments to internal policies and procedures; and the importance of keeping records of any adjustments made.
2019-12-1713 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Common conundrums when deciding disciplinary sanctionsShould the same punishment be handed down to everyone when there are multiple culprits? Can an expired warning be taken into account? Can a disciplinary sanction be increased on appeal? We discuss some common dilemmas for employers when deciding on disciplinary penalties.
2019-12-0317 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)IR35 reformKate Upcraft, payroll consultant and lecturer, joins us to discuss proposed reform of IR35 (intermediaries legislation) in the private sector that will have an impact on off-payroll working, and that is anticipated to take effect in April 2020. Kate explains what the new rules will mean for employers that engage consultants, and the practical steps that organisations will need to take to ensure compliance. Kate also discusses further changes that are anticipated for public-sector employers.
2019-11-1933 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Social media misconductNick Chronias, partner at DAC Beachcroft LLP, joins us to share his guidance on when you can take issue with an employee's use of social media, and the benefits of having a social media policy that reflects the needs and culture of your organisation.
2019-11-1217 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Covert recordings at workJo Broadbent, counsel knowledge lawyer at Hogan Lovells, joins us to discuss the legal and practical issues related to covert recordings at work. We consider the challenges employers are likely to face including the recording of disciplinary proceedings by employees, and dealing with evidence covertly obtained to support harassment allegations. We also discuss what employers should know before making a covert recording, and how policies and procedures can be best drafted to mitigate common risks.
2019-10-2923 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Labour turnover and sickness absence ratesSenior HR practice editor Noelle Murphy discusses the trends in sickness absence and labour turnover rates - including rates among employees with less than 12 months' service - and considers what these changes mean for HR and the wider business.
2019-10-1514 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Employment tribunals - the state of playOver two years on from the abolition of employment tribunal fees, we discuss the latest figures for tribunal claims and look at the impact on employers of severe delays in cases being heard.
2019-09-3014 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)The right to work in the UKNaomi Goldshtein, compliance manager at Fragomen, joins us to discuss what employers need to know about the right to work in the UK. This includes the key points often overlooked by employers when it comes to the prevention of illegal working in the UK, documentation required, and outlines the process that should be followed.
2019-09-1720 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Dismissal for poor attendanceNaeema Choudry, partner at Eversheds Sutherland, joins us to discuss the EAT decision of Kelly v Royal Mail Group which highlights common issues and dilemmas associated with long-term poor attendance, including constructive knowledge of disability and the weight to attach to occupational health advice. We also discuss how a decision to dismiss for poor attendance may fall within the band of reasonable responses, even where it was acknowledged to be harsh.
2019-09-0316 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Handling difficult conversationsHandling difficult conversations is an essential skill for line managers but it doesn't come easily. Gary Bates and Sarah-Jane Georges, both account directors at behaviour change company Steps, discuss the best ways to develop line manager confidence and competence in having such conversations. This includes the key principles around having effective and productive conversations when the subject matter is difficult or potentially upsetting for the employee, and offers examples using role play.
2019-08-0627 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)WhistleblowingMatthew Perry, a solicitor at Wedlake Bell, joins us to discuss the benefits of embedding effective whistleblowing arrangements in your organisation, and guides you through the steps to take should you receive a whistleblowing complaint.
2019-07-2315 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Positive actionJo Broadbent, counsel knowledge lawyer at Hogan Lovells, joins us to discuss the legal and practical issues that employers need to think about when contemplating positive action.
2019-07-0924 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Dress and appearance in the workplaceGetting the right dress code in place for your organisation means not falling foul of the law in this area. Beverley Sunderland, managing director of Crossland Employment Solicitors, joins us to set out what employers need to take into account and to provide practical guidance on rolling out a dress code policy. Sarah Byrne, HR practice editor, also joins us to discuss our latest research in this area.
2019-06-2516 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Latest updates on Brexit and what they mean to employersLouise Haycock, director at Fragomen, takes us through the implications of Theresa May's resignation and the new proposed Brexit date of 31st October 2019.
2019-06-1110 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Common issues during maternity leaveIssues that can arise during maternity leave range from the mundane, such as keeping lines of communication open, to the dramatic, such as putting an employee at risk of redundancy. We are joined by principal employment law editor Stephen Simpson to discuss common scenarios during maternity leave, and how to deal with them.
2019-05-2820 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)GDPR update - current data protection issues for HRAlmost one year on from the introduction of the GDPR, we discuss its continuing importance for HR and the potential impact of Brexit on transfers of personal data. We are joined by senior employment law editor Susie Munro to go through some current data protection issues of interest to HR. We look at: potential enforcement action and the importance of staff training; the use of artificial intelligence in the recruitment process; data protection impact assessments; and the transfer of data between the EEA and the UK in light of ongoing uncertainty around Brexit.
2019-05-1414 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Key HR metrics and priorities for the year aheadXpertHR's annual survey of HR roles and responsibilities covers HR priorities over the coming year, budgets for carrying out activities and ratio of HR practitioners to employees. Senior HR practice editor, Noelle Murphy, takes us through latest findings, key points of note from the research and identifies trends over time. Recruitment challenges for the HR profession and the impact of Brexit are also discussed.
2019-04-3012 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Dealing fairly with disciplinary and grievance situationsHandling disciplinary and grievance situations is a perennial issue for HR, and having robust procedures in place is the cornerstone of a fair process. Max Winthrop, head of employment law at Short Richardson and Forth LLP, joins us to discuss some of the key points you need to have in mind, including how recent updates to the Acas guidance on disciplinary and grievance situations may impact your approach.
2019-04-1410 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Negotiating successful settlement agreementsSettlement agreements form an essential part of an employer's toolkit, providing a means to terminate employment on mutually acceptable terms without the risk of tribunal claims. Their success, however, depends on effective negotiation with the employee and compliance with technical rules. Nick Chronias, partner at DAC Beachcroft LLP, joins us to discuss the key features of the settlement process including the following: starting a conversation with an employee around termination; the difference between "without prejudice" discussions and "protected conversations"; the tax treatment of termination payments; confidentiality clauses; pitching the offer; and the technical rules that govern...
2019-04-0522 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Brexit and political opinions at workHow should employers approach political discussions at work? Can employers prevent employees from displaying pro- or anti-Brexit paraphernalia at work? What about staff campaigning or protesting outside working hours? Will employers making redundancies because of Brexit really choose leave voters as the first to go? We are joined by principal employment law editor Stephen Simpson to discuss five scenarios related to Brexit and political opinions at work.
2019-03-2111 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Brexit - preparing your workforce for all scenariosWith 29 March fast approaching, we talk to Louise Haycock, a director and immigration solicitor at Fragomen, about what employers should be doing to prepare for all Brexit scenarios. Louise discusses the potential implications for employers of the various parliamentary outcomes, including the following: the impact on EU citizens working in the UK and vice versa; managing international assignments and business visitors; carrying out recruitment checks; using the settled status scheme; the status of Irish citizens working in the UK; supporting EU national workers; and reviewing your policies and procedures.
2019-03-0714 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)The dangers of dismissing employees in receipt of permanent health insurance paymentsThe recent decision of Awan v ICTS (UK) Ltd highlights the risk of dismissing an employee who is in receipt of permanent health insurance payments. Laurie Anstis, director with Boyes Turner LLP, explains the implications of the decision and the steps you can take to mitigate against the substantial financial risk of getting it wrong. Presenter Laura Merrylees is joined by Laurie Anstis.
2019-02-1913 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Wellbeing in the workplaceEmployee wellbeing is high on the HR agenda, given its relationship with improved business performance. We explore XpertHR's latest research based on the experience of over 400 HR practitioners around initiatives in five key areas: health; job-related financial security; working environment; work-based relationships; and job purpose. We look at the top three reasons for organisations running wellbeing initiatives, how you can get it right and the challenges you might expect to meet along the way. Presenter Laura Merrylees is joined by Noelle Murphy.
2019-02-0711 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)#MeToo - sexual harassment in the workplaceThe #MeToo movement has become a global phenomenon and is rarely out of the news. But what should employers be doing to combat sexual harassment in the workplace? Kelly Thomson, legal director at law firm RPC and XpertHR contributing author, gives us some top tips on the steps that employers can take to prevent sexual harassment. Kelly also gives her insight into how employers should deal with complaints of sexual harassment in the workplace and the key pitfalls that they should avoid. Presenter Fiona Cuming is joined by Kelly Thomson.
2019-01-2420 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Key employment cases for 2019Which employment cases will have the biggest impact on HR in 2019? We assess the likely impact on employers of upcoming cases on: the national minimum wage, shared parental leave, holiday pay, restrictive covenants, collective bargaining, covert CCTV, and employment status. The 2019 cases that we discuss pose the following questions: Are sleep-in care workers entitled to the national minimum wage while asleep? Is it sex discrimination for employers to enhance maternity pay but not shared parental pay? Is ambulance workers' voluntary overtime sufficiently regular and settled to be included in the calculation of holiday pay? Is a restrictive covenant that...
2019-01-1024 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)HR developments 2018/2019In this roundtable podcast, members of the XpertHR editorial team reflect on the key employment law developments of 2018 and the impact of these for HR, including: Brexit; the GDPR; the apprenticeship levy; pay reporting; parental bereavement leave; and family-friendly policies. With many of the changes likely to affect employers of all sizes and in differing sectors, we consider what employers need to do to prepare and plan for the year ahead and beyond. Presenter Laura Merrylees is joined by Susie Munro, Stephen Simpson, Noelle Murphy and Fiona Cuming. Edited and produced by Chris Bryant.
2018-12-1329 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Flexible working policies and practice at PwCCharlotte Billot-Taylor, Leader - Employee Relations, Policy & Advice at PwC, discusses her organisation's approach to flexible working and transparency around family-friendly policies. She shares the experience of PwC in introducing new initiatives designed around various flexible working patterns, and offers advice for any organisations looking to evaluate or modify flexible working policies or practice for employees. Presenter Noelle Murphy is joined by Charlotte Billot-Taylor.
2018-11-2912 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Avoiding unfair dismissals during redundanciesLaurie Anstis, director with Boyes Turner LLP and updating author at XpertHR, focusses on how employers can avoid unfair dismissals when going through a redundancy exercise. Laurie covers when to seek volunteers, how to go about the consultation process, identifying and applying selection criteria, scoring those at risk of redundancy, avoiding redundancy problems and dealing with appeals against dismissal. Presenter Noelle Murphy is joined by Laurie Anstis.
2018-11-1523 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Pay award forecasts for 2019Employers have awarded only modest pay rises over recent years, but what do they have in store for 2019? XpertHR managing editor for pay and HR practice Sheila Attwood joins us to discuss what organisations are planning on the pay front in 2019, including the likely level of pay awards and the factors that are putting pressure on organisations to make higher or lower increases. Presenter Laura Merrylees is joined by Sheila Attwood. Edited and produced by Chris Bryant.
2018-11-0109 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Gender pay gap reporting - what we have learnt so farXpertHR reward consultant Penne Cecil-Hutton joins us to share her insight into the steps employers are taking to address or improve the gender pay gap within their organisations, and the most common queries that employers have with preparing or interpreting gender pay gap figures. We also round up what employers need to do to prepare for the next date of publication of gender pay gap reports in 2019.
2018-10-1818 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Postponing disciplinary and grievance hearings following TalonIn the recent decision of Talon Engineering Ltd v Smith, the Employment Appeal Tribunal upheld an earlier tribunal finding that an employer's refusal to postpone a disciplinary hearing because of the unavailability of the employee's companion led to the employee being unfairly dismissed. Consultant editor, Darren Newman, explains the background to the case and its legal implications. We go on to discuss what employers can take from this decision and how they should be handling postponement requests as a result. Presenter Laura Merrylees is joined by Darren Newman.
2018-10-0415 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)XpertHR's key HR metrics and what we can learn from themSenior HR practice editor Noelle Murphy discusses the trends in key HR metrics gathered by XpertHR for over a decade. We cover movements in sickness absence rates, labour turnover - including rates among employees with less than 12 months' service - and changes in the ratio of HR practitioners to employees, and consider what these changes mean for HR and the wider business. Presenter Laura Merrylees is joined by Noelle Murphy. Edited and produced by Chris Bryant
2018-09-2014 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Mental health first-aidersEmbedding an effective mental health first-aid structure in your organisation is a key step to ensuring the mental wellbeing of your workforce. Mental health first-aid instructor and management trainer, Peter Larkum, takes you through what you need to know about mental health first aid at work.
2018-09-0612 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)What employers need to know about BrexitLouise Haycock, a senior manager at Fragomen and updating author at XpertHR, outlines where all things Brexit stand as of now for employers, what the end of free movement will mean for current and future employees from the European Economic Area and the implications of a "no deal" Brexit. Louise also covers what steps HR can take to reassure any employees who may be directly affected by the end of free movement between the UK and the EU and key dates around the process. Presenter Noelle Murphy is joined by Louise Haycock. Edited and produced by Chris Bryant.
2018-08-0917 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Responding to subject access requestsThe right to know who holds data about you and how it is being processed has long been a fundamental part of data protection law. The GDPR has brought in a renewed focus on transparency, and employers need to be prepared to respond quickly, should an employee or job applicant make a data subject access request. We discuss the main changes in the procedure for responding to a subject access request under the GDPR regime and the practicalities of providing access to what could potentially be a large amount of data. We highight the resources on XpertHR that can...
2018-07-1812 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Five key cases for HR to look out forThe headlines are being dominated by "gig economy" employment status cases, but there are plenty of other important employment law cases coming up. We discuss the potential implications for employers of forthcoming rulings on whistleblowing, data protection, restrictive covenants, covert CCTV and violence at work-related social events.
2018-07-0511 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Enhancing shared parental payIn the recent decision in Hextall v Chief Constable of Leicestershire Police and another, the Employment Appeal Tribunal opened up the question of whether or not an employer's policy of giving a period of full pay to mothers on maternity leave, but paying only statutory shared parental pay to partners, is indirectly discriminatory. Douglas Leach, who represents Mr Hextall in the case and is a barrister at Guildhall chambers, outlines the case and explains the potential implications of the decision for employers. Presenter Laura Merrylees is joined by Douglas Leach. Edited and produced by Chris...
2018-06-2116 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Kicking off the World Cup in the workplaceWith the World Cup 2018 starting on 14 June, we can safely say that football fever is about to arrive in the workplace. We discuss how employers can make the World Cup a home win by taking advantage of all the employment engagement opportunities that this event can bring. We look at some issues that might arise during the World Cup and we take a look at two employment law cases, Post Office v Liddiard and May & Baker Ltd (t/a Sanofi-Aventis Pharma) v Okerago, concerning employee conduct during this sporting celebration. Presenter Noelle Murphy is joined by Fiona Cuming.
2018-06-0714 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Restrictive covenants - protecting your businessEnforcing the protection that restrictive covenants provide can be difficult and legally complex, particularly at a time when key commercial interests are at stake and emotions are running high. Special guest, Patrick Brodie, Head of Employment at law firm RPC and XpertHR contributing author, takes you through what you need to know about restrictive covenants to protect your business effectively.
2018-05-2417 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Gender pay gap reporting - what we can learn from the first wave of reportsGender pay gap reports have now been published by more than 10,000 organisations. Mark Crail, content director at XpertHR including the XpertHR gender pay gap reporting service, discusses the main findings from the reports, how best to use the data internally and externally, and the dos and don'ts when preparing reports for 2019.
2018-05-1013 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Supporting bereaved employeesManaging the needs of a bereaved employee is one of most sensitive issues that HR professionals can face. Sheila Attwood, XpertHR managing editor for pay and HR practice, talks us through the support that employers can give employees at the time of a bereavement. We are also joined by Andy Langford from Cruse, a national bereavement charity, to tell us about the employee experience and how they would like to be supported by their employer.
2018-04-2610 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)How XpertHR can help you be GDPR readyWith the implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) on 25 May 2018 fast approaching, we highlight the new and updated resources on XpertHR that will help with your GDPR preparation, whatever stage you are at. If you are just beginning to think about your GDPR compliance, we point out the practical guidance on XpertHR that will help with getting started. If you are further down the line in implementing your compliance plan, we direct you to where you can find more detailed guidance and answers to the tricky questions that will arise as you go along. Presenter Laura Merrylees...
2018-04-1211 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Getting to grips with people analyticsPeople analytics is one of the most significant processes to affect the HR function - the business insight it offers can ensure HR enjoys a level of influence within organisations rarely seen before. Sjoerd van den Heuvel, a researcher and lecturer at the Utrecht University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands, and expert in people analytics, joins us to provide some practical guidelines on the hows and whys of getting involved. Presenter Noelle Murphy is joined by Sjoerd van den Heuvel.
2018-03-2222 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Common pitfalls in managing redundanciesEnsuring a redundancy process stands up to inspection while minimising the impact on remaining employees is a an ongoing challenge for HR practitioners. One of our oldest employment rights carries with it a series of common pitfalls. Max Winthrop, an employment law partner at Short Richardson and Forth LLP, joins us to give us the benefit of his experience of regularly advising on redundancy exercises, including how to ensure the consultation process is meaningful and ensuring selection criteria are fair and robust.
2018-03-0817 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Long-term sickness assessments after the demise of fit for workEnabling the return to work of employees on long-term sickness absence remains an ongoing issue for employers, despite the Government's decision to close the Fit for Work assessment service, following low referral rates. Eversheds Sutherland partner Naeema Choudry joins us to discuss what the demise of the service means for employers and the options available when assessing employees on long-term sickness absence.
2018-02-2210 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Are you at risk of backdated holiday claims?In the recent decision of The Sash Window Workshop and another v King, the ECJ opened up the risk of unpaid holiday claims being brought by "workers" treated as self-employed. Nick Chronias, employment partner at DAC Beachcroft LLP, explains the implications of the decision and the steps employers can take to mitigate against the risk. Presenter Laura Merrylees is joined by Nick Chronias.
2018-02-0815 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Leadership development - delivering a successful programmeThe quality of leadership can distinguish a successful organisation from a struggling one. Nigel Paine, a learning and development specialist, author and broadcaster, joins us to explain why leadership development is so important and how organisations can deliver it to maximum effect.
2018-01-2514 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Workplace mediation - what is it and why use it?Using mediation to resolve workplace conflict can be a highly effective tool for employers. Aled Davies, an expert in mediation, joins us to explain how mediation can take place at work and the benefits it can offer. Presenter Laura Merrylees is joined by Aled Davies.
2018-01-1118 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Key employment cases for 2018We predict the key cases for 2018 and assess their likely impact. We explain why employment status will remain in the spotlight, and we discuss the ramifications of the ECJ's recent decision on holiday pay.
2017-12-0719 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Gender pay gap reporting - where are we now?With organisations having already published or preparing to publish their first gender pay gap reports, Mark Crail, content director for XpertHR, takes a look at where we are now, including: the number of reports that have been published; what reports should contain; how to identify target audiences for reports; and examples of good and bad reporting. Presenter Zuraida Curtis is joined by Mark Crail.
2017-11-2309 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Handling redundancies where maternity rights applyHandling redundancies where affected employees include those who are pregnant or on maternity leave can give rise to some tricky issues. Understanding what the law allows you to do, including the special protections that can apply, is crucial to ensuring a fair process. Jo Broadbent, who is a professional support lawyer with Hogan Lovells, explains the key features of the law including: how the selection process operates; the duty to offer suitable alternative employment; entitlement to notice pay and statutory maternity pay; and strategies to deal with some of the common pitfalls. Presenter Laura Merrylees is joined by Jo...
2017-11-0925 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Emerging trends in employee engagementKate Pritchard, director of research at ORC International, joins us to discuss emerging trends in employee engagement, including: the "Engage for Success" movement; the impact of technology; survey response rates and turnaround times; the frequency of surveys, together with the use of pulse surveys; and the potential impact of the EU General Data Protection Regulation. Presenter Noelle Murphy is joined by Kate Pritchard.
2017-10-2609 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)HR careersSpecial guest Brad Taylor, Head of People at CIPD, joins us to discuss the findings of the XpertHR HR careers survey 2017 and provides a valuable insight into the HR profession.
2017-10-1210 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)TUPE mythbusters (part 2)In the second part of our two-part podcast on TUPE, special guests Patrick Brodie and Kelly Thomson clear up some common TUPE myths.
2017-09-2817 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)TUPE mythbusters (part 1)In part one of our two-part podcast on TUPE, we discuss how to inform and consult employees on a TUPE transfer to ensure as smooth a transfer as possible. Special guests Patrick Brodie and Kelly Thomson, TUPE specialists at law firm RPC and XpertHR contributing authors, run through their top tips on informing and consulting.
2017-09-2115 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Suspension from workIn the recent decision in Agoreyo v London Borough of Lambeth, the High Court held that the suspension of a teacher was a "knee-jerk" reaction and in breach of the implied term of trust and confidence between the employer and employee. Nicky Green, professional support lawyer at Capsticks, explains why this case is an important reminder of the steps an employer should take before deciding whether or not to suspend an employee. Nicky also discusses the process that an employer should follow when it decides that suspension is necessary and appropriate. Presenter Fiona Cuming is joined by Nicky Green.
2017-09-0710 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Handling grievancesEmployers have a degree of flexibility when deciding how to deal with employee grievances. We look at how to take a common sense approach to grievances, including when to take informal action, what to do if employees are reluctant to get involved with a formal procedure, and the potential outcomes to consider. Presenter Qian Mou is joined by Susie Munro.
2017-08-3110 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Constructive dismissal explainedEmployers continue to be confused by the concept of constructive dismissal. Max Winthrop, employment partner at Short Richardson & Forth LLP, explains constructive dismissal, including: what action on the part of an employer may entitle an employee to resign; the level of connection required between the employer's actions and the employee's resignation; and strategies for defending a constructive dismissal claim in the employment tribunal.
2017-08-2417 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Dealing with covert recordingsEmployers are increasingly required to deal with employees covertly recording disciplinary and grievance meetings. With the prevalence of sophisticated recording devices, including mobile phones, this trend is likely to continue. In this week's podcast, we discuss how an employer should deal with covert recordings. In particular we look at the cases of Punjab National Bank (International) Ltd and others v Gosain and Zia and others v Brighton University Foundation Trust and others and offer practical advice for employers to follow. Presented by Laura Merrylees and Zuraida Curtis.
2017-08-1707 minThe Brightmine Podcast (UK)Holiday pay includes voluntary overtimeIn the recent decision in Dudley Council v Willets and others, the Employment Appeal Tribunal found that regular voluntary overtime carried out by employees should be included in the calculation of holiday pay. Nick Chronias, employment partner at DAC Beachcroft LLP, explains the legal implications of the decision for employers. We go on to discuss what employers should be doing differently as a result of the decision. Presenter Jeya Thiruchelvam is joined by Nick Chronias.
2017-08-1015 min