News & Insights

Laceys’ Head of Employment & HR, Robin Watson spoke to the Wessex Branch of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) on Thursday 11 March. CIPD is the professional body for HR and people development.

Around 100 HR professionals attended the talk which focussed on Disability Discrimination. Robin provided key tips and practical advice on the common areas where these type of claims can arise.

‘I wanted to do something different, rather than just tell people about recent cases and what judges have said. Often, that makes it hard for HR professionals to know how to apply what they have heard to their day-to-day work.’ explained Robin.

‘By giving real and practical tips and help, based on my own experience of helping clients and key cases, I hope that immediate reviews can be made to policies and processes of those who attended.’ said Robin.

‘HR can be a lonely and difficult role and especially when a complex issue like disability is in play’ Robin continued. The talk was a reflection of how I try to provide practical and clear advice to clients and support them as best that I can.’ said Robin.

Robin was joined by employment barrister and part-time employment judge, Stephen Wyeth, of 3 Paper Buildings. Stephen talked about reasonable adjustments and claims that can arise from a disability.

The talk was very well received and it is intended that a follow-up talk will be arranged shortly with Robin and Stephen, to discuss the important issue of neurodiversity in the workplace.

Some of the highlights of the talk were:

• The importance of having a trusted specialist advisor before a claim arises
• Making sure that you take time to talk to your advisor regularly
• Ensuring that all meetings are documented and shared with the employee
• Taking appropriate Occupational Health advice regularly
• Understanding the risks of a disability claim arising