

Neurodivergence in the workplace - Legal Insights and Practical Steps for Employers
As diagnoses of ADHD, autism and other forms of neurodivergence surge - particularly among younger generations - the challenge for employers is no longer awareness, but action. From legal obligations under the Equality Act to the cultural shift in how we understand difference, the workplace is being rewired.


How to Reduce Inheritance Tax (IHT) by Giving Gifts During Your Lifetime
The UK government made some important changes to Inheritance Tax (IHT) in the Autumn Budget 2024. These changes could affect how much tax your estate pays when you pass away. This guide explains what’s changed and how you can use gifts to reduce the amount of IHT your estate might owe.


The Redundancy Process – a guide for small businesses
As financial pressures mount for small businesses across the UK, it has become increasingly important to proactively assess and refine redundancy processes.


Why the consultation period matters when making redundancies
Most business owners and decision makers will grapple with the prospects of having to let people go, and the subsequent redundancy process, at some point during their career.
While the decision itself might be tough, it’s absolutely vital that the process is handled correctly, or employers could find themselves facing legal action.


Business First Magazine - Spring 2025
Check out the Spring 2025 edition of our Business First magazine for businesses.


Court fee increase
The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) has announced that from 8th April 2025, 171 court and tribunal fees will increase.


Employment Law Changes from April 2025 – what do employers need to know?
As part of the government’s pledge to deliver on its promise to Make Work Pay, we will see various statutory payment rate changes from April 2025 as well as an increase to the minimum wage and Neonatal Care Leave becoming a day 1 right.


What are the proposed changes to the Employment Rights Bill?
The UK Government's consultation on the Employment Rights Bill has culminated in several significant amendments aimed at enhancing workers' rights while addressing concerns from businesses and other stakeholders. Initiated in October 2024, the consultation sought feedback on various aspects of the proposed legislation, leading to a series of revisions being published at the beginning of March 2025.


Neonatal Leave becomes a Day 1 right
The Department for Business and Trade confirmed that a day one right to neonatal leave for working families with babies in neonatal care will be introduced from 6 April 2025.


Son successfully contests late mother's £700,000 will after evidence revealed his sister “helped” her sign it
In a recent legal case, a son successfully contested his late mother's £700,000 will after evidence revealed that his sister had physically manipulated their ailing mother's hand to sign the document.


Domestic Abuse – What can employers do to support employees?
Domestic abuse is alarmingly prevalent in the UK. Employers should consider the impact of domestic abuse on employees as part of the duty of care and put procedures in place to support them.


Employment Law Changes in 2024 and What Employers Can Expect for 2025
The UK employment law landscape has undergone significant changes in 2024, and more updates are on the horizon for 2025 and beyond. These reforms impact employers, demanding careful consideration by them to ensure they are legally compliant and ensuring they are following best practice.


The Risks of Divorcing Without a Formal Financial Settlement
According to the findings of the FairShares research project in November 2023, just one-third of divorcing couples finalise their finances through a court order. Without a court-approved financial remedy order (known as a Consent Order), divorcing couples may find themselves subject to claims being made against their assets and pensions in the future, many years after the divorce proceedings have been finalised.


Work Christmas parties and the law
Work Christmas parties are a staple on the corporate calendar, but it is always important to remember that even though it is a Christmas party, it is also a work event. As an employer, you have a responsibility to your workers and a duty to ensure the rules are followed.


Business First Magazine - Autumn/Winter 2024
Welcome to the Autumn/Winter edition of Business First Magazine.


Labour’s Employment Rights Bill: What changes have been announced and who is affected?
The Labour government’s new Employment Rights Bill (published on 18th October 2024) introduces significant changes that aim to improve job security, expand worker protections, and increase flexibility for millions of employees across the UK. Katie Ash, Head of Employment Law at Banner Jones, breaks down some of the key changes and explains who will be affected.


Updates to Sexual Harassment Laws – is your business ready?
As of 26 October 2024, every employer has a legal duty to take proactive measures to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. This change in the law comes at a time where sexual harassment claims against well-known TV presenters and businessmen are dominating the headlines.


Landmark Renters’ Rights Bill — Implications for Private Residential Landlords
Residential landlords will need to shape up for the forthcoming legislation set out in the Renters’ Rights Bill put forward by the government. The banning of Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 as a method for evictions will provide greater security for tenants, alongside a raft of other proposed changes. Smaller scale landlords, in particular, are likely to be affected by the changes.


Fire and Rehire Laws – a timely reminder
A recent Supreme Court decision against Tesco serves as an important reminder of the risks of employers using ‘fire and rehire’ to impose changes to terms and conditions and how this should only be used as a last resort.


Injured on a package holiday, can I make a personal injury claim?
If you, or a family member, suffer an injury or illness on holiday that was not your fault, you may be able to make a personal injury claim in the UK against the package holiday operator.


Can Dog Bite Injuries lead to Personal Injury Claims?
Dog bite injuries can be traumatic and often result in significant physical and emotional consequences. In addition to the immediate physical harm, dog bite injuries can also give rise to complex legal issues, particularly concerning personal injury claims. Understanding the causes, consequences, and legal aspects of dog bite injuries is crucial for both victims and those potentially liable.


Can Bedsores (pressure sores) lead to a Personal Injury Claim?
Bedsores, also known as pressure sores or decubitus ulcers, are painful and often preventable injuries that can occur when someone remains in the same position for an extended period. In cases where negligence or inadequate care contributes to the development of bedsores, victims may have grounds to file a personal injury claim.


How do Child Protection Conferences Work?
Child Protection Conferences involve multiple professionals from various agencies, such as social services, health services, education, police, and sometimes representatives from voluntary organizations. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of the child's situation and facilitates collaborative decision-making.


The Bumpy Road Ahead: Understanding Personal Injury Claims Due to Pothole Accidents in the UK
Potholes can wreak havoc on vehicles and, more alarmingly, pose a serious risk to pedestrians and cyclists. Could you claim compensation for injury due to a pothole accident through a personal injury claim?


Navigating the recent changes in UK Employment Laws - April 2024
For HR managers and businesses alike, keeping abreast of Employment Law changes isn't just advisable—it's imperative. Here, Katie Ash, Head of Employment Law summarises some recent regulation changes which came into effect in April 2024.