Episode 39: Employment Law Roundup 2024

HR Voices

A podcast for independent HR and people, professionals, and the businesses they support.

Hosted by Mary Asante and Charlotte Allfrey of HR Independents Ltd.

DATE: 23rd December 2024 

Episode 39: Employment Law Roundup 2024

Guest: Amanda Trewhella, Freeths LLP

Podcast Summary:
In this episode of HR Voices, hosts Charlotte Allfrey and Mary Asante are joined by Amanda Trewhella, Director and Employment Solicitor at Freeths LLP. Together, they unpack the key employment law changes of 2024, explore the implications for businesses, and provide insights into what’s on the horizon for 2025 and beyond. From the Employment Rights Bill to new legislative measures like flexible working and unfair dismissal changes, this episode provides valuable takeaways to help HR professionals and businesses prepare for the evolving workplace landscape.

In This Episode:

1. Reflections on 2024:

• A busy year in employment law, with major updates stemming from both legislative changes and the Employment Rights Bill.
• Key updates include carers’ leave, flexible working changes, extended protections for maternity returners, and updates to paternity leave.

Exploring the Employment Rights Bill:

• The biggest headlines include the shift to a day one unfair dismissal right and the proposed statutory probationary period of 6–9 months.
• Further changes to flexible working requiring employers to justify decisions, not just cite reasons.
• Upcoming challenges with zero-hour contracts, including a requirement to offer guaranteed hours based on reference periods.

Key Takeaways on 2024's Legislation Changes:

• Carer’s leave: Introduction of one week of unpaid leave for those with caring responsibilities.
• Flexible working: Now a day one right, with shorter decision periods for employers.
• Paternity leave: Can now be taken in two separate blocks of one week each.
• Maternity protections: Expanded protections during pregnancy and six months after return from family leave.

The Big Issues for Employers:

• The administrative and financial burden of implementing new measures such as the zero-hours contract changes.
• Fire and rehire practices becoming more restricted, requiring financial justification and making it a last resort option.
• Changes in managing probationary periods and ensuring compliance under the new unfair dismissal rules.

Looking Ahead to 2025 and Beyond:

• National Minimum Wage increases (April 2025).
• Enhanced consultation requirements for contract changes and shift patterns.
• Liability for third-party sexual harassment cases.

• Many measures are still under consultation, with a timeline extending into 2026.

Best Practices for HR Professionals:

• Train managers to handle flexible working requests, performance issues, and sexual harassment reporting effectively.
• Conduct risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities in harassment prevention and third-party interactions.
• Prepare policies and contracts in anticipation of upcoming legislation.
• Foster an inclusive and flexible workplace culture to improve staff retention and attract top talent.

Key Quotes:

• “It’s not just about having a harassment policy or training staff; how you react when something happens will set the tone for your workplace culture.” – Amanda Trewhella
• “These legislative updates, while challenging, are an opportunity to create better workplaces and improve retention and culture across the board.” – Charlotte Allfrey
• “Unfair dismissal becoming a day one right will require a mindset shift for HR professionals and managers alike.” – Mary Asante

Actionable Insights:

• Get Ahead of Legislation: Start reviewing contracts and policies now to include flexibility and compliance with upcoming changes.
• Focus on Training: Equip managers and HR teams with the skills to navigate challenging conversations and evolving compliance needs.
• Assess Vulnerabilities: Conduct risk assessments for areas like harassment prevention and flexible working to mitigate future risks.
• Engage in Consultations: Participate in government consultations to have your say on proposed legislation.

 

Thanks for Listening!
We hope this episode has provided clarity and actionable insights into navigating the busy landscape of employment law.

To learn more or to share your expertise as a guest, contact us at hrvoices@hrindependents.co.uk. Stay tuned for more episodes that keep you informed and prepared for the evolving world of HR!