Disability is a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010, which means that disabled people are legally protected from discrimination at work. What is the definition of disabled? Section 6 of the Equality Act 2010 defines a disability as a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability… [Read More]
Falling asleep on the job? A cautionary tale
It’s one thing to nod off for a few minutes during a training session (who hasn’t!). Chances are, nobody will notice, and the only consequence might be a bit of embarrassment. However, if your job involves driving or operating dangerous machinery, then it is a much more serious issue. But the consequences can be significant,… [Read More]
What ‘banter’ is reasonable in the workplace?
Employers are faced with an unenviable task when tackling ‘banter’ in the workplace. There is always a fine line between banter and potential bullying and harassment. Any notion of banning ‘banter’ altogether is unlikely to be sustainable, or well received, in practice. In-jokes and ‘friendly banter’ are, to an extent, human nature and an important… [Read More]
Supreme Court holds that UK trade union law is incompatible with Human Rights law
The Supreme Court was recently asked to consider whether s146 Trade Union & Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 (TULRCA) protected striking workers from ‘detriment short of dismissal.” Why was the Supreme Court involved? An employee was suspended on basic pay (resulting in a loss of overtime pay) and given a written warning after she was… [Read More]
Marks and Spencer raises the bar for maternity, paternity and adoption benefits
Retailer Marks and Spencer has made a significant investment in its employees by improving its maternity, paternity and adoption benefits, far exceeding the legal requirements. Starting in April 2024, the chain has introduced six weeks of paternity leave at full pay and has doubled its maternity and adoption leave to 26 weeks at full pay. What are… [Read More]
