Major changes to employment law are coming – is your business ready?
A series of significant changes to employment law will affect employers over the next 18 months, bringing new responsibilities and increased legal risks for businesses of all sizes. If you employ staff – even just one or two people – now is the time to start preparing.
Join employment law specialist David Seals, Partner and Head of Employment at Downs Solicitors, for a practical breakfast briefing designed specifically for small and independent businesses. David will explain what the upcoming Employment Rights reforms mean in plain English, highlight the key changes you need to know, and answer your questions during an open Q&A session.
Coffee and pastries will be provided, making it the perfect opportunity to start your day with valuable insights and connect with other local businesses.
Topics will include:
- Unfair dismissal claims: From January 2027, employees will only need six months’ service before they can bring an unfair dismissal claim. Are your recruitment, induction and probation processes robust enough?
- Sexual harassment responsibilities: From 30 October 2026, employers will be required to take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment, with potential liability for harassment by customers, clients and other third parties returning. What practical steps should your business be taking now?
- Other key employment law reforms and what they could mean for your business.
- Practical advice on reducing legal risk while remaining a supportive employer.
- An opportunity to ask your own employment law questions in a relaxed Q&A session.
Timings
Coffee and pastries on arrival – 8:30 – 8:45am
Employment Law Briefing and Q&A – 8:45 – 9:15am
Chance to chat and catch up with other businesses – 9:15 – 9:45am
Whether you run a shop, café, restaurant, office or other small business without dedicated HR support, this session will help you understand the changes ahead and give you practical actions to take away.
Start your day with coffee, pastries and practical advice that could help protect your business.
