Navigating the post-election landscape as a family-inclusive employer

As the UK reflects back on the the wider implications of the recent General Election, employers, working parents and carers alike are watching to see how the new Labour Government delivers on campaign promises along with the immediate impact of the King’s Speech. 

Join us on Tuesday 17th September, 2024 11:00 AM as we discuss some of those key manifesto promises and the legislative agenda so far: 

We will explore what employers can expect on: 

Childcare & Education: Including the continuation of the current rollout and the introduction of the Children’s Wellbeing Bill. There has also been a tightening of guidance around workplace nursery schemes.  

Family-friendly legislation: The Employment Rights Bill to be introduced in the first 100 days making parental leave a day-one right; making it unlawful to dismiss pregnant employees for six months after return from maternity leave except in specific circumstances. Potential future review of the implementation of carer’s leave examining the benefits of introducing paid carer’s leave. 

Flexible working: Making flexible working the default from day one for all workers except where it is not reasonably feasible. Will the UK also introduce the right to disconnect, similar to France, Spain and Australia? 

Some other aspects of Diversity & Inclusion: The Draft Equality (Race and Disability) Bill will add obligatory reporting on Ethnicity and Disability Pay Gaps (alongside Gender) for organisations with over 250 staff. Potential future plan to require large employers with more than 250 employees to produce Menopause Action Plans. 

Our panel will weigh up: 

• What are the implications for employers looking to provide effective and inclusive family policies? 

• What does this shift in Government mean in real terms for both employers and workers? 

• What do employers need to be aware of, and prepared for, in order to demonstrate best practice? 

• Will current practices remain competitive in attracting and retaining talent as legislation advances? 

Panel Guests:

Ros Marshall OBE, Managing Director, International, for Bright Horizons (and member of the National Partnership in Early Learning and Childcare: NPELC).

Lorren Martin, Counsel in Employment & Compensation, Baker McKenzie

Leon Emirali, Senior Counsellor, PLMR Communications Agency

Chaired by Jennifer Liston-Smith, Head of Thought leadership, Bright Horizons