Episode 7 SofaSessions - Get Comfortable with...

In our latest HM Sofa Sessions, Calum is joined by employment law specialist Sam Butler to unpack the significant workplace law changes landing over the coming months and what employers should be doing now to stay ahead. The discussion focuses on two key dates that every HR professional and business leader should have firmly in their diary: 1 October and 30 October. From extended employment tribunal time limits to enhanced obligations around workplace harassment and major trade union reforms, the landscape is changing rapidly. Sam explains why employers can no longer assume risks disappear after three months, what the new requirement to take "all reasonable steps" to prevent harassment means in practice, and how organisations can prepare for increased responsibilities relating to third-party harassment. The conversation also explores the latest trade union reforms, including new employee information requirements and union access rights, highlighting practical considerations for onboarding, communications, and workplace processes. Looking further ahead, the session provides an early look at the important changes arriving in January 2027, including reforms to unfair dismissal rights and the removal of compensation caps, with insight into why probationary processes and performance management should already be under review. As always, HM Sofa Sessions delivers practical HR commentary in a clear, accessible format, helping busy employers understand what matters most without getting lost in legal jargon. If these changes affect your organisation, this episode is essential viewing and a great starting point before diving deeper at our upcoming HR Matters Live event and specialist training sessions. Watch now and make sure your business is prepared for the biggest employment law changes in years.