Every so often, an employment law case comes along that reminds us that real life is far stranger than any training scenario. Duffy v LNER Mr Duffy worked in train hospitality for London North Eastern Railway. His dismissal for gross misconduct hinged on a simple but unforgettable allegation – he removed two sausage rolls from… [Read More]

Most changes under the Employment Rights Act 2025 will take effect in 2026 and 2027. A first set of trade union reforms will come into force on 18 February 2026, two months after Royal Assent. These changes largely reverse measures introduced by the Trade Union Act 2016 and strengthen unions’ ability to take industrial action…. [Read More]

When an employee is found to have been unfairly dismissed, compensation usually has two parts: Contributory Fault Tribunals can reduce compensation if the employee’s conduct is relevant to the dismissal. This is known as contributory fault. In the circumstances, a basic award can be reduced if it’s just and equitable to do so, even if… [Read More]

The draft Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave Regulations 2026 were quietly published in early January 2026. If enacted, the Regulations will apply from 6th April 2026. The Regulations introduce a new right to Bereaved Partner’s Paternity Leave (BPPL). Who is entitled? Only employees (not workers) qualify. From 6th April 2026, an employee is entitled to BPPL… [Read More]

Paternity leave is a statutory entitlement that allows eligible fathers and partners to take either one or two weeks’ leave following the birth or adoption of a child. The leave must be taken within 52 weeks of the child’s birth or placement for adoption and is designed to support parents at a critical time for… [Read More]