The Acas Code of Practice is clear – misconduct investigations should begin without delay. Slow handling can seriously undermine the fairness of a disciplinary process and expose employers to legal risk. O’Brien v Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust In the case O’Brien v Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, Ms O’Brien was… [Read More]

A recent Court of Appeal decision confirms that whistleblowers can, in some circumstances, bring claims not only against their employer, but also against individual managers or colleagues involved in their dismissal. Whistleblowing claims – the basics Whistleblowers have two main types of legal protection under the Employment Rights Act 1996: Detriment claims work for employees… [Read More]

From 1 December 2025, the Acas early conciliation period has doubled from six weeks to twelve. HR professionals should understand what this means for managing disputes and preparing for potential tribunal claims. What is ‘early conciliation’? Employees must notify Acas before bringing most claims, including unfair dismissal, discrimination and whistleblowing. So Acas offers early conciliation… [Read More]

The Government has announced the following increases to the national minimum wage rates from 1st April 2026. HR teams and employers should review pay structures and budgets asap, particularly where rises may create pressure on differentials and compression between pay bands. HR and payroll systems need to be prepared. The naughty list Companies that fail… [Read More]