The Legal Room UK

In this episode of All in a Day’s Work, part of the Legal Room UK podcast series, the Alice Hepworth and Alex Harper provide a clear and accessible introduction to whistleblowing in the workplace. The discussion explores what whistleblowing is, why it matters, and the types of concerns that may give rise to a protected disclosure. The episode outlines the legal framework surrounding whistleblowing, including who is protected, what constitutes a qualifying disclosure, and the importance of raising concerns in the public interest. It also considers the practical and cultural challenges that individuals may face when speaking up, alongside the responsibilities of employers to handle disclosures appropriately and prevent retaliation. Designed as a practical starting point, this episode is ideal for employers, HR professionals, and employees seeking a grounded overview of whistleblowing and its role in promoting transparency, accountability, and good workplace governance.

Landlords often receive break notices that appear, at first glance, to be compliant - but closer scrutiny frequently reveals defects. In this session, we explain tests for validity, highlight common errors, and outline the strategic options available to landlords when a tenant’s notice is potentially ineffective.

In this episode of All in a Day’s Work, host Alex Harper talks with Matt Jenkin about the often‑confusing world of service provision changes under TUPE. Matt explains what counts as a service provision change, why it matters when businesses outsource, switch contractors, or bring services back in‑house, and how tribunals decide whether activities are “fundamentally the same.” With practical examples and insights drawn from real case law, Alex and Matt explore common pitfalls, the impact on employees, and the key steps employers should take to manage TUPE risks effectively.

In this episode, we take a clear, practical look at how tenants can effectively exercise a break clause and ensure the lease actually comes to an end. Break rights are famously unforgiving - strict conditions, service traps, and vacant‑possession hurdles often catch tenants ou

In this episode of All in a Day’s Work on The Legal Room UK, host Alex Harper is joined by Usof Shah to unpack the key updates to the English language rules for Skilled Worker visas from January 2026. This includes the new CEFR B2 requirement and how applicants can meet it based on nationality, qualifications, or approved testing, as well as when exemptions apply.

In this episode, Cassie Blackledge and Alex Harper lift the lid on what really happens during Acas negotiations. From early conciliation to last-minute settlements, we explore how Acas is an effective tool to assist parties navigate employment disputes outside the Employment Tribunal. Whether you're advising a client or preparing for talks yourself, we’ll share practical insights, strategic tips, and common pitfalls to avoid.

In this episode, Hannah King and Alex Harper explore how mediation can help resolve workplace disputes before they escalate. From personality clashes to communication breakdowns, they explain when mediation works, how it differs from formal processes, and why it benefits both employers and employees. Practical, informal, and focused on solutions — this is conflict resolution done right.

In this episode, Jo Boxhall and Alex Harper unpack Section 15 of the Equality Act 2010. They discuss what “discrimination arising from disability” really means, how it differs from direct and indirect discrimination, and how tribunals assess employer knowledge. They also explore key case law and practical steps employers can take to reduce risk and support disabled staff effectively.

In this episode Tom Hyatt and Alex Harper are breaking down IR35 and the off-payroll rules. Discussing what they mean, when they apply, and how to stay compliant. They explore the tax and legal risks of consultancy arrangements, the small company exemption, and how to assess employment status. Packed with practical tips for contracts, SDSs, and avoiding HMRC pitfalls.

In this episode Matt and Alex are running through the general updates to redundancy processes in light of both the De Banks Haycocks case, as well as the proposals relating to redundancy in the Employment Rights Bill. They talk through the De Banks Haycocks case and its journey from the Employment Tribunal all the way up to the Court of Appeal.

What does the Employment Rights Bill mean for Leisure and Hospitality? by The Legal Room UK

In this episode Usof and Alex are discussing the skilled worker visa changes which came into force on 22 July 2025. They are discussing the changes to qualification requirements and salary thresholds. Usof also takes us through what happens when an employee who is already in the UK under a skilled worker visa and need to renew, contrasting that with those who are applying for the first time after 22 July 2025.

In this episode, Cassie Blackledge and Alex Harper will be discussing employment rights of parents and parents to be. They will run through the law as it is now pending any changes pursuant to the Employment Rights Bill. They will break down what maternity and paternity leave typically involve and introduce shared parental leave as a flexible, evolving solution that allows both parents to take time off to care for their child. Whether you’re preparing for your own parental leave or curious about the ins and outs of these rights, we’ve got you covered!

In this episode, Alex Harper and Hannah King dive into the key employment issues that arise during corporate transactions in the UK. Whether you're navigating mergers, acquisitions, or restructurings, understanding how to manage employee rights, TUPE considerations, and redundancy challenges is crucial. This episode covers the essentials you need to know to mitigate risk and ensure a smooth transition.

In this episode Matt Jenkin and Alex Harper are discussing the US influence on DE&I in the UK. We briefly discuss the changes in the US in respect of DE&I initiatives and how that might filter through to the UK. We also discuss the different legal framework in the UK, which may make rowing on DE&I somewhat more complicated for UK employers than for their US counterparts.

In this month’s episode, Jo Boxhall and Alex Harper are following the introduction of the new right to neonatal leave and neonatal pay. They’re looking at who this right applies to, what qualifies as neonatal care, the structure of the leave, notification requirements, pay, employee protections, and importantly what employers should do to prepare.

In this month’s episode, Jo Boxhall and Alex Harper are following the introduction to disability discrimination by doing a deep-dive into the failure to make reasonable adjustments. They’re looking at what might happen when an employer fails to make adjustments to accommodate for someone with a disability. They also talk about how employers may want to take a more inclusive approach into making adjustments to ensure a welcoming and equal workplace environment for all.

In this episode of the Family Law series, we speak to Daniel Piddington, barrister at College Chambers in Southampton regarding some of the situations and questions that individuals face when cohabitation is on the cards. We also consider the steps you can take to make your living situation as secure and as stress-free as possible.

In this episode, Hannah King and Alex Harper are giving an overview of the practical and legal process of bringing and defending Employment Tribunal claims in the UK. They run through the broad Tribunal process from lodging the claim, all the way to the final hearing. They also discuss possible strategies during the process and how to use the Employment Tribunal process to maximum effect.

In this episode of the Family Law series, we speak to Daniel Piddington, barrister at College Chambers in Southampton regarding some of the situations and questions that individuals face when cohabitation is on the cards. We also consider the steps you can take to make your living situation as secure and as stress-free as possible.

In this episode Usof Shah and Alex Harper discuss the immigration requirements to bring a partner to the UK. Usof provides an overview of each requirement and the process to submit an application.

In this podcast Kelly Hurst and Steph Collins, from our Private Wealth and Inheritance department, discuss the differences between Powers of Attorney and Deputyship. We will look at how they can be of use to you and why we would recommend everyone enter into a Lasting Power of Attorney.

In this episode of the Family Law series, we speak to James Evans of Our Family Wizard regarding how parenting apps are vital to helping the relationships between parents and their children when families have separated. We also consider the importance of finding the best way for parents to positively communicate with each other.

In this episode Jo Boxhall and Alex Harper are running through an introduction to disability discrimination under UK law. They’re looking at what it means to be “disabled” for the purposes of the Equality Act 2010, what types of discrimination can be claimed and what obligations or duties employers might have in respect of their employees.

Many people assume that once you have obtained a County Court Judgment (CCJ), collecting the money will be straightforward. However, the reality can be far more complex. In this podcast Jake Gatley and Florrie Aylward from the Commercial Litigation Team at Herrington Carmichael discuss the practicalities of enforcing a CCJ. Join us as we discuss some of the key enforcement options available, including bailiffs, charging orders and attachment of earnings orders.

With the new positive duty for employers to prevent sexual harassment which came into force on 26 October 2024, Alex Harper and Matt Jenkin are discussing the important role that a standalone sexual harassment policy is likely to play in demonstrating compliance with these new obligations.

In this month’s All in a Day’s Work, Alice Finniear and Alex Harper are discussing the new Tipping Act and associated Code of Practice. We’re breaking down what the new law means for the leisure and hospitality sector, what they have to do in order to comply with the new law and what we consider to be best practice for employers. The Act came into force on 1 October 2024 and takes effect immediately, so, if you’re not already, this is something that employers who handle tips need to get to grips with as soon as possible, or otherwise, face the legal consequences of failing to do so!

In this episode of All in a Day’s Work, Hannah King and Alex Harper from Herrington Carmichael are discussing off the record conversations. Hannah will explain what a without prejudice conversation actually is and what the differences are between a without prejudice discussion and a protected conversation under the Employment Rights Act 1996.

In this episode of All in a Day’s Work Usof Shah and Alex Harper from the Employment and Immigration team at Herrington Carmichael are discussing the immigration requirements in corporate mergers and acquisitions. Usof explains what the key factors that employers need to think about from an immigration perspective are, the critical one being transferring sponsor licences.

In this episode of the Family Law series, we look at the principles that surround “sharing” and also “needs” when considering financial matters as part of a divorce. We talk about the principles that are relevant to how a case may be resolved and when “sharing” might apply, or when “needs” will apply.

Alex Harper and Sam Gray from the Employment team at Herrington Carmichael are discussing flexible working. We’ll be looking at what a statutory request flexible working might look like from a legal perspective. As well as what the changes from 6 April 2024 look like for employers and employees when making or responding to those requests.

In this episode of the Family Law series, we look at all things co-parenting. We will talk about ways in which parents may navigate the complexities that arise when trying to co-parent, and how we look to communicate when there is a difficult relationship between parents.

This episode of All in a Day’s Work by the Employment team at Herrington Carmichael covers the new Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act. Matt Jenkin and Alex Harper will be taking you through the new Act and the impact it will have for all employers from October when the new positive duty for all employers to take reasonable steps prevent sexual harassment in the workplace comes into force. To find out about what that means for your business and what steps you should be taking to prepare for this change, listen now!

In this episode of the Family Law series, Paul Wild looks at the mediation process, and what to consider when using the mediation process, and what parties need to think about. We talk through the positives of this process and what it can provide when looking at resolving issues as part of separation, and the opportunity to positively resolve any disputes, for example, in relation to their children, financial matters and so on. We also discuss the collaborative process and how this can positively benefit and assist separating parties.

This month’s episode of All in a Day’s Work by the Employment team in Herrington Carmichael covers unfair dismissal claims in the Employment Tribunal. Hannah King and Alex Harper are discussing this cornerstone area of UK employment law and running through the ins and outs of the reality of bringing such a claim.

In this podcast, Isabella Milnes-James is joined by Natasha Lawrance and Mark Aldridge, Paralegals in the Private Wealth and Inheritance department at Herrington Carmichael to discuss the importance of making a Will. This episode covers everything from what is a Will, how marriage and divorce can affect your Will to those who are entitled to bring a claim against your Estate.

In this episode of the All in a Day’s Work series, we are running through the Employment law changes that are coming into force in 2024. Alex Harper and Alice Finniear will be discussing the changes and giving top tips on how employers can prepare for the change.

In this episode of our Family Law series, we discuss where we start with child arrangement matters and what we need to consider when deciding how to move forward. We will talk through the various ways in which we may start this process, both inside and outside of court proceedings

This month's episode covers the changes that are coming into force in immigration law from Spring 2024. Alex Harper and Usof Shah will be discussing what employers should be doing now ahead of the changes and how this could impact organisations moving forward.

In the second episode of the new Family Law series, we focus on Valentine’s Day and in particular Pre-Nuptials and what couples need to consider when deciding to marry. We will talk through what they need to think about, in terms of starting the process, including timings and what information they will need to provide and be aware

In this episode of Herrington Carmichael’s All in a Day’s Work Employment and Immigration Law podcast, we are discussing post termination restrictions. We’re taking it back to basics by looking at what post termination restrictions are, whether their enforceability can be challenged and what happens when they are breached. We also discuss our top tips for drafting post termination restrictions for employers to give them the best chance of being able to successfully enforce them.

In the first episode of the new Family Law series, we focus on how the Christmas and New Year period impacts upon relationships and families. We will talk through the initial stages of the legal process and what can be expected, trying to break down the common issues faced in a breakup.

In the month of new year’s resolutions, not to mention dry January and Veganuary, this episode will cover an introduction into what a philosophical belief actually is from an employment law perspective and how some beliefs are protected under the Equality Act 2010. This is fast growing area of case law, and we will be discussing recent Employment Tribunal judgments and considering the rising issues employers are facing in light of these. Links mentioned in episode: Grainger - https://www.bailii.org/uk/cases/UKEAT/2009/0219_09_0311.html Forstater judgments - https://www.gov.uk/employment-tribunal-decisions/maya-forstater-v-cgd-europe-and-others-2200909-2019 Contact Herrington Carmichael: [email protected] +44 (0)1276 866 209 www.https://www.herrington-carmichael.com/

In this month's episode, we will cover an introduction into managing a redundancy process. We will discuss when a redundancy process may be needed and talk through the various steps which will assist in avoiding the common pitfalls that may occur. We will also briefly look at when a collective consultation may be required and what that means.

In this month's episode, we will cover an introduction into discrimination with a particular focus on race discrimination under the Equality Act. We will discuss how discrimination laws apply and consider the common issues faced not only by employers generally, but also specifically by Financial Services employers in light of the recent Employment Tribunal judgment against Lloyds on a case about the use of racist language in the workplace.

In this month’s episode we will be covering the Senior or Specialist Worker Visa (Global Business Mobility). We will be discussing the eligibility criteria for this type of visa, how long you can stay in the UK and the costs associated with obtaining it. We will also look at our top tips for employers in terms of getting the most out of a Senior or Specialist Worker Visa and how Global Business Mobility can benefit and grow their business.

In this podcast Stephen Baker and Ishwari Sharma, dispute resolution lawyers at Herrington Carmichael, discuss the principles that apply when a shareholder is unfairly prejudiced in relation to their shareholding by the actions and decisions of a controlling cohort of shareholders or the directors.

In this episode, Sam Gray and Tom Hyatt, Employment Solicitors at Herrington Carmichael discuss the basic principles of TUPE including when a transfer arises, the impact this has on employees and how best to prepare for a potential TUPE transfer.

This month’s episode is an introduction to environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) for Employers. We will be providing an overview of what ESG is, particularly from an employment perspective. We will also be discussing why a strong focus on ESG can reap significant benefits for employers.

This month’s episode is an introduction to Employment Tribunal claims. We will be providing an overview of employment tribunal claims and the Tribunal procedure. We will also be giving our top tips for managing employment tribunals and considering both the legal and commercial risks. We will also be discussing potentially the most common employment tribunal claim: unfair dismissal.