Advertise on podcast: The Employment Law Pod

In this episode Andrew Whiteaker and Harjeet Nangla explore the increasingly important issue of interim relief in employment disputes. They discuss what interim relief is, when an employee can make an application and the high legal threshold that must be met. The episode looks particularly at cases involving whistleblowing and protected disclosures, which are a common basis for interim relief applications, as well as the strict seven-day deadline for making an application. Andrew and Harjeet also explain how interim relief hearings work, including the “pretty good chance” test applied by the employment tribunal and why an unsuccessful interim relief application does not necessarily mean an employee will lose their claim at a final hearing. The discussion considers why applications have increased, including the use of AI and significant delays in employment tribunal hearings, and the potential financial consequences for employers. They also look at the practical steps employers should take when making dismissal decisions and the importance of maintaining clear evidence of the reasons and process behind a decision to dismiss. Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training

In this episode, Helen Goss and Rachael McAnulty discuss the increasing use of AI to prepare workplace grievances and the challenges this can create for HR teams. They cover: AI-generated grievances The problems with lengthy, repetitive grievances containing irrelevant or inaccurate legal references, and how HR teams can identify the real issues. Early resolution Why addressing workplace conflict early and encouraging open communication can help prevent issues from escalating into formal grievances. Practical steps for HR How grievance policies and manager training can help employees raise concerns clearly and support HR teams in dealing with AI-generated complaints. SOSR and relationship breakdown When some other substantial reason may potentially apply where working relationships have broken down, and why this should be treated as a high-risk option. Confidentiality and privilege The potential risks of employees or employers entering confidential information into open-source AI tools, including implications for legal privilege. Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training

How much is your business really worth to a buyer and how much of that value sits in things that never appear on a balance sheet? In this second instalment of our series on maximising business value ahead of a sale, Helen Goss from the Boyes Turner employment team is joined again by Rebecca Woolmington of HR Central. Where Part 1 looked at organisational structure, succession planning and getting contracts in order, this episode turns to the softer but no less scrutinised areas of a due diligence process: culture, engagement, communication, legal risk and post-sale transition. Helen and Rebecca discuss how a prospective buyer forms a view of your culture (sometimes within minutes of walking through the door), why exit interviews and grievance patterns tell a story the C-suite doesn't always want to hear, and how open communication becomes critical and fragile the moment a sale is on the horizon. They also cover the practical legal risks that can quietly erode value, from minimum wage and holiday pay slip-ups to undocumented conversations, health and safety for hybrid workers, data security and AI policies. Whether you're planning an exit in six months or five years, this episode is a practical guide to putting your best foot forward. Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training

In this episode of the Employment Law Pod, employment Partner Andrew Whiteaker is joined by dispute resolution Partner Phillip Baldwin to explore the growing impact of AI on litigation, grievances and dispute resolution. Andy and Phil explore how litigants, employees and businesses are increasingly using tools such as ChatGPT to prepare grievances, legal arguments and tribunal claims. They discuss how AI can improve access to justice and support individuals who may otherwise be unable to obtain legal advice, while also creating significant challenges for courts, tribunals and employers.  The conversation covers: Why employment judges are starting to push back on AI-generated submissionsThe rise in lengthy and overly complex tribunal claimsHow AI can create false confidence for litigantsThe risks of hallucinated case law and inaccurate legal argumentsConfidentiality and privilege concerns when using open source AI toolsThe growing pressure on tribunal and court systemsWhy AI can make settlement discussions more difficultPractical advice for employers handling AI-generated grievances and complaintsThe continued importance of legal expertise, negotiation and human judgment in dispute resolutionAlongside the risks, the episode also looks at the positive ways legal professionals are using AI to improve efficiency, including disclosure exercises and document review, while emphasising the importance of human judgment, negotiation skills and legal expertise in resolving disputes effectively. If you have any questions about employment disputes, grievances, litigation or the use of AI in the workplace, the teams at Boyes Turner would be happy to help. Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training

In this episode of the Employment Law Pod, Andrew Whiteaker is joined by Will Morris from Profectus Recruitment to unpack one of the most significant upcoming changes in UK employment law. With the Employment Rights Act introducing a new six month qualifying period for unfair dismissal claims and removing the compensation cap, businesses are entering a period of real change and increased risk. Andy explains how the shift from two years to six months will reshape decision making for employers, particularly during the early stages of employment. The conversation explores how this change raises the stakes for getting recruitment and onboarding right from day one, and why waiting until the end of a probation period could create unintended legal exposure. Will brings a recruitment perspective, highlighting the challenges businesses already face in attracting and retaining talent. From high turnover in the first six months to misaligned expectations around hybrid working, he shares practical insights into how companies can better position themselves in a competitive market. The discussion also touches on the idea of “corporate catfishing” and the risks of overselling roles or culture during the hiring process. Together, they emphasise that strong onboarding, clear communication, and realistic hiring strategies are not just legal safeguards but essential for business performance. They also discuss the pressures on smaller organisations without dedicated HR support and how a focus on fairness and reasonableness can go a long way in navigating complex and evolving regulations. The episode closes with practical tips for employers, including tightening recruitment processes, improving briefing for recruiters, reducing unnecessary interview stages, and ensuring that offers and employee experiences align with expectations. Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training

In this episode of the Employment Law Pod, Helen Goss is joined by long-time collaborator Rebecca Woolmington, founder of HR Central, to explore how businesses can maximise value and minimise risk when preparing for sale from a people perspective. With growing movement across the SME market, many organisations are gearing up for investment or exit. But as Helen and Rebecca explain, buyers aren’t just purchasing products, services or IP, they’re buying people, structure and operational stability. That means preparation is essential. HR data and documentation are often seen as routine administration, but they play a critical role in protecting and enhancing business value. Well-organised records, appraisal histories and clear documentation make due diligence smoother and more convincing. Using real-world experience and practical examples, this episode breaks down what “getting match-fit for sale” really involves and why the work you do behind the scenes can dramatically increase valuation. Stay tuned as Helen and Rebecca will return to discuss culture, communication, post-sale legal risks and integration challenges, whether you’re buying or selling. Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training

In this episode of the Employment Law Pod, partners Andrew Whitaker and Helen Goss unpack one of the most significant shake-ups to UK employment law in decades: the Employment Rights Act. With the Act now in force and many changes being phased in through 2026 and 2027, Andy and Helen explore what we know so far, what remains uncertain, and what employers should be thinking about now. They discuss the headline reforms, including the reduction of the unfair dismissal qualifying period to six months, the proposed removal of the compensation cap, changes to statutory sick pay, collective redundancy rules, trade union law, fire and rehire, and zero-hours contracts.  Importantly, this episode doesn’t just focus on risk. Andy and Helen take a balanced view, using their famous Venn diagram thinking to explore whether there are genuine positives for both employers and employees, from improved workforce engagement and retention to a more level playing field across sectors. Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training

In our last employment podcast of the year Claire Taylor- Evans, Partner and Harjeet Nangla, Senior Associate discuss what might be on HR’s 2025 Christmas Wish List. Can you spot the festive song lyrics throughout the episode? The discussion starts with the risk of workplace Christmas parties, looking at employer liability, festive misconduct and the heightened obligations introduced by the Worker Protection Act. Claire and Harjeet unpack what “reasonable steps” really mean, the role of risk assessments, training and workplace culture, and how the EHRC is beginning to use its enforcement powers. The conversation then turns to the long-awaited Employment Rights Bill, soon to become the Employment Rights Act 2025. The episode provides a practical overview of what’s changing, when those changes are expected to take effect, and why employers should start planning now.  Finally, the episode addresses the rise in restructures and redundancies amid economic uncertainty. Claire and Harjeet highlight common pitfalls around collective redundancy thresholds, settlement agreements and voluntary redundancies, and explain why early HR involvement and robust tracking are critical to avoiding costly mistakes. A festive but practical end-of-year episode packed with insights to help HR teams stay compliant, reduce risk and prepare for what lies ahead in 2026 and beyond. Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training

If you’re staring down a reorganisation, a redundancy risk, or a fraying working relationship, a well-drafted settlement agreement can be the difference between clean closure and months of expensive uncertainty. In this episode, Partner Helen Goss and Solicitor Rachael McAnulty break down everything employers and employees need to know about settlement agreements. With organisations continuing to restructure in a challenging economic climate, settlement agreements are increasingly common but they’re often misunderstood. Helen and Rachael discuss what a settlement agreement is, when it should be used, and the key clauses that must be drafted with care. From tax treatment and PENP calculations to restrictive covenants, legal fee contributions, and the importance of getting notice arrangements right, this conversation provides clear, practical guidance for HR teams, business owners, and individuals exiting a company. Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training

Andrew Whiteaker, and Helen Goss unpack the legal and practical considerations when employees take time away from their regular roles, from temporary secondments to unpaid sabbaticals and career breaks.  They discuss:  What distinguishes a secondment from a sabbatical or unpaid leaveCommon pitfalls when employees return from extended absenceHow to avoid disputes with clear written agreementsWhat happens when a role no longer exists at the end of a secondmentLater in the episode, Andy and Helen delve into the CIPD Health and Wellbeing at Work Survey 2025, which reveals a sharp rise in sickness absence across UK sectors. They explore why absence levels are increasing, particularly the growing impact of mental health, the effects of hybrid and home working on sickness trends, how HR teams can manage absence more effectively through better data, communication, and manager training, and why employee wellbeing strategies need to move beyond box-ticking.  This episode is packed with practical advice for HR professionals, business leaders, and in-house counsel looking to stay ahead of emerging employment law and people management issues. Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training

In this episode of The Employment Law Pod, Andrew Whiteaker is joined by Julie Marsh, Partner in the Clinical Negligence team, to explore the challenges around managing long-term sickness absence. Together, they discuss: The realities employees face after serious illness or injury.Why early communication between employers and employees matters.The role of medical evidence and occupational health in fair decision-making.What “reasonable adjustments” really mean under the Equality Act.Practical steps for employers to support a fair and lawful return-to-work process.Discover how additional resources like Employee Assistance Programs and private medical insurance can support recovery, and why signposting employees to appropriate legal advice might provide crucial financial security when return to work proves impossible. Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training

Exiting a CEO or senior executive is rarely straightforward. In this episode of the Employment Law Pod, Partners Andrew Whiteaker and Helen Goss unpack the legal and commercial challenges of removing a senior leader. They explore how to handle service agreements, shareholder disputes, restrictive covenants, and whether garden leave or settlement is the best option. In the second half of the episode, the focus shifts to workplace culture, with a deep dive into Lidl’s recent agreement with the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC), highlighting new employer obligations around preventing workplace sexual harassment. Packed with practical insights, this episode is essential listening for HR professionals, business leaders, and anyone involved in managing senior exits or safeguarding workplace culture. Subscribe to the Employment Law Pod for expert insights that blend legal precision with practical business guidance.  Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training

In this episode of The Employment Law Pod, Chris Harber Partner, Employment & Immigration at Boyes Turner breaks down the sweeping changes to the UK immigration system introduced in July 2025. These updates are part of the government’s ongoing strategy to "restore control" and represent one of the most significant overhauls to the Skilled Worker route in recent years.  If your organisation holds a sponsor licence or relies on migrant labour, this is a must-listen.  Key takeaways for employers: Over 180 roles have been removed from the Skilled Occupation List.Employers can no longer sponsor chefs, hotel managers, or other roles now classed below Level 6.Sponsorship strategies must adapt to ensure compliance and avoid costly missteps.The government is linking immigration policy with industrial strategy for the first time in years.Boyes Turner’s Employment & Immigration team can help assess how these changes impact your recruitment plans.  Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training

In this episode of The Employment Law Pod, Partners Andrew Whiteaker and Helen Goss dissect a series of recent and thought-provoking employment law developments:  Sighing as Discrimination? They begin with the case of Watson v Roke Manor Research, where a manager’s non-verbal expressions such as sighing, eye-rolling, and huffing were deemed discriminatory toward an employee with ADHD. The discussion explores how microaggressions and unconscious bias can contribute to a hostile work environment, and why employers must take reasonable adjustments seriously.  CNN and Cross-Border Employment Rights Next, Helen breaks down CNN v Bhatti, a case involving a British journalist injured abroad who challenged CNN's attempt to block her UK tribunal claims. Despite a US-governed contract and overseas assignments, the courts found a strong enough UK connection for the case to proceed, offering a valuable reminder about jurisdictional reach in employment law.  Hybrid Working: A Growing Flashpoint Andy revisits the ever-evolving topic of hybrid working, focusing on HSBC's directive tying office attendance to performance reviews and bonuses. They examine trends across major employers (Barclays, Santander, PwC) and discuss the potential impact on employee satisfaction and retention, particularly when workers moved during the pandemic.  A Garden, a Meeting, and a Tribunal Finally, they cover a quirky but relevant tribunal case where an employee’s refusal to attend a face-to-face mediation, opting instead to supervise gardeners at home while joining via Teams, was cited by the employer as blameworthy conduct. The tribunal disagreed, underscoring ongoing tensions around remote vs. in-person expectations.  Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training

What happens when a seemingly dry piece of Scottish legislation leads to a Supreme Court ruling that defines what it legally means to be a man or woman? The ramifications are far more extensive than anyone might have anticipated. The Supreme Court's landmark ruling in For Women Scotland versus the Scottish Ministers (2025) has delivered clarity on a question that has caused political figures to squirm: what exactly is the legal definition of a woman under the Equality Act 2010? The unanimous judgment determines that for Equality Act purposes, the terms "man" and "woman" refer to biological sex rather than gender identity, even for those who possess a Gender Recognition Certificate. This ruling creates tension between the Gender Recognition Act 2004, which states that an acquired gender becomes someone's gender "for all purposes," and the practical application of the Equality Act. The Supreme Court found that many provisions of the Equality Act would be unworkable without a biological definition of sex, particularly regarding pregnancy protections and single-sex spaces. While the judgment provides legal clarity, it creates complex challenges for employers trying to balance legal compliance with inclusivity. Employers now face questions about managing facilities like toilets and changing rooms, with potential privacy concerns for transgender employees who may effectively be "outed" by facilities policies. This episode with Andrew Whiteaker and Helen Goss emphasises that while the legal definition is now clear, employers should continue demonstrating empathy and understanding toward all employees, providing training on inclusivity, and supporting transgender staff who may be affected by this ruling. Follow our podcast wherever you listen to stay informed on the latest cases and practical guidance for your workplace. Episode Links Visit our websiteContact usOur Employment servicesOur HR training