If an employer fails to follow the Acas Code of Practice when dealing with a disciplinary or grievance matter, an employment tribunal can sometimes increase the compensation awarded to an employee by up to 25%. But 25% is the maximum – it is not an automatic increase. The recent case ofSheikholeslami v University of Edinburgh… [Read More]
Free speech and belief discrimination: where are we now?
The recent Employment Appeal Tribunal decision in University of Bristol v Miller is a useful reminder of how employers should deal with conduct linked to an employee’s protected religion or belief. Background case of Higgs In Higgs v Farmor’s School, a Christian secondary school counsellor was sacked for gross misconduct after posting on Facebook. Her posts… [Read More]
Training cost clawbacks in contracts: when does repayment become an illegal restraint?
Training repayment agreements are common. An employer pays for an employee’s training, and, in return, the employee agrees to repay some or all of the cost if they leave within a certain period. But there are limits on what employers can recover. Geeks Ltd v Watts The decision in Geeks Ltd v Watts shows that… [Read More]
Third-party harassment is coming back: are you ready?
From 30 October 2026, if a customer harasses one of your employees, your organisation could still be legally responsible. This is the case, even if the customer does not work for you, and you may have had no idea that the harassment was going to happen. New Rules New legislation arising from the Employment Rights… [Read More]
Sexual harassment training: how often should you train your staff?
From 30 October 2026, the Employment Rights Act 2025 changes mean employers will be required to take “all reasonable steps” to prevent sexual harassment at work. Taking all reasonable steps can also provide an employer with a defence if it would otherwise be legally responsible for harassment carried out by an employee. Most employers understand… [Read More]
