The New Year is bringing a few important changes with the government raising minimum wages from April, and as of December 2025, employers will have significantly more time to engage in Acas Early Conciliation before a tribunal claim can be issued. While intended to ease pressure on the system, the change has practical consequences for how HR manages risk, evidence and timing in disputes.
We also take a look at a recent Employment Appeal Tribunal decision that’s a good reminder that delay can be costly. The case shows how slow handling of misconduct allegations can seriously undermine the fairness of a dismissal – proof that timing isn’t just a technicality, it can be decisive.
Alongside this, we’re sharing practical tips on how to handle retirement discussions with confidence, and exploring why getting holiday management right really matters (and the risks of leaving it to chance).
Until next month,
Jen