Debenhams Ottaway hosts Employment Lawyers Association training day

On Friday 28 March 2025, Debenhams Ottaway opened its doors to employment lawyers across the Upper South East when it hosted an Employment Lawyers Association regional training day.  

The event, expertly organised and chaired by Sam Greenhalgh, ELA Upper South East Representative and employment partner at Birketts, featured three captivating talks and provided delegates with valuable networking opportunities. 

The day kicked off with an insightful presentation by Kishwar Hanif from Thompsons Solicitors, a member of the ELA Legislative and Policy Committee. Kishwar delved into the proposed changes under the Employment Rights Bill, discussing their implications for the zero-hours worker community and how employers will need to adapt. 

Next, pensions lawyers James Saddler and Andrew Campbell from Doyle Clayton enlighten delegates on pension law. They covered essential topics such as paying pension contributions via salary sacrifice, the pensions aspects of corporate transactions (including the interaction with TUPE and Beckmann and Martin rights), termination of employment and valuing pension loss, consultation on pension changes, and automatic enrolment. 

After lunch, Eleanor Parkes, Debenhams Ottaway employment solicitor and ELA Upper South East  Junior Committee representative, took part in a compelling panel session on neurodiversity in employment law. She was joined by Curious Mentor Jen Smith, an executive coach and mentor with a special interest in inclusion, accessibility, and neurodiversity. The session provided delegates with practical tips for organisations aiming to foster inclusivity, along with insights into the legal framework surrounding disability discrimination claims and reasonable adjustments. Their discussion emphasised proactive measures to prevent potential disputes. 

At the end of the event, delegates came away informed and equipped with new strategies to navigate the evolving landscape of employment law.