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The changes to the Worker Protection Act 2023, have introduced significant duties for employers, particularly around preventing sexual harassment in the workplace. These changes reflect growing concern about workplace culture, with recent surveys from Fawcett Society revealing over 40% of women and 18% of men have experienced some form of workplace harassment in the UK. This legislation aims to shift employers from reactive complaint handling to proactive prevention. For businesses, this means reviewing policies, strengthening training and ensuring compliance with a more robust legal framework. As the leading employment law solicitors, Bowcock & Pursaill will tell you all about the changes, the actions you need to...
The Fair Work Agency (FWA) launched in April 2026 and has become the UK’s single labour-market enforcement body. It consolidates minimum wage enforcement, agency worker protections, gangmasters licensing, statutory sick pay compliance and importantly; state enforcement of holiday pay. Employers searching for guidance need to understand what has changed, the records they must keep and how to avoid enforcement action. Our latest blog explains the FWA’s remit, its inspection powers and the practical steps you should be prepared to take. The Fair Work Agency Explained The FWA brings together enforcement functions previously handled by HMRC, the Employment Agency Standards Inspectorate and the Gangmasters & Labour Abuse Authority. It enforces: National Minimum...
Choosing the right employment solicitor is crucial for resolving workplace disputes. It can be a daunting task, especially if you’re unfamiliar with legal processes. In Stoke on Trent, there are many solicitors to choose from. Each offers different expertise and services. Understanding what to look for can make the process easier. Employment solicitors specialise in handling issues like unfair dismissal and discrimination. They provide guidance and representation in legal matters. Selecting a solicitor with the right experience and skills is vital. It can significantly impact the outcome of your case. This guide will help you navigate the selection process. You’ll...
The recent change in the law to make anti-LGBTQ+ hate crime an aggravated offence shows a significant shift in the UK’s approach to protecting LGBTQ+ people. While the amendment sits within criminal legislation, it has clear implications for employers and HR teams responsible for maintaining safe and inclusive workplaces. This is now the ideal moment for organisations to review their policies, culture and risk exposure, and for employees to understand their strengthened protections. A Stronger Legal Backdrop for Tackling Discrimination The Equality Act 2010 already prohibits discrimination, harassment and victimisation on the grounds of sexual orientation and gender reassignment. The new aggravated status-offence status reinforces the seriousness of...
Cybersecurity remains one of the most important legal and operational challenges for businesses. Cyber threats are becoming more sophisticated, with regulators tightening reporting obligations and increasing fines for non-compliance. As corporate law specialists, Bowcock & Pursaill are here to talk you through the types of cyber threats, updates for reporting, the definition of cyber insurance and response plans if you suffer a data breach. What are cyber threats? Ransomware, phishing, and supply chain attacks are still the most common types of cyber threats in 2026. Attackers are employing AI-driven tools to automate intrusions, making even the tightest security systems in organisations of all sizes vulnerable. SME’s especially...
Employment contracts typically drafted prior to someone starting a new job but then left untouched for years. In today’s fast-moving workplace, outdated contracts that omit new legislation, hybrid working, and evolving employee expectations leave employers exposed to unnecessary risk. Our latest blog will talk you through why annual contract reviews are now essential to protect your business, whilst being legally compliant and providing clarity to your employees. Five reasons employment contracts need regular updates Stay ahead of employment law changes – From statutory leave entitlements to flexible working rights, employment law changes each year. Contracts need to reflect current legal obligations, as an...
Workplace grievances are an inevitable part of running a business. Whether they relate to working conditions, relationships, discrimination, or management decisions, employers are legally obligated to handle grievances fairly, consistently and in line with the ACAS Code of Practice. Getting it wrong can lead to costly disputes, reputational damage and tribunal claims. On the flipside, getting it right builds trust, transparency and a much healthier workplace culture. Our latest blog provides the key steps employers should follow to manage grievances lawfully and effectively. What counts as a grievance? A grievance is any concern, problem, or complaint an employee raises with their employer. Examples include: Bullying...
The Employment Rights Act (ERA) represents the largest overhaul of UK employment law in many years.
The Online Safety Act (2026) is expanding, here’s everything you need to know.
Founded in 1927, Bowcock & Pursaill has been our clients’ number one choice for solicitors in Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire and Cheshire for almost 100 years. We also act on behalf of clients throughout the country.
The firm prides itself on its customer service, offering detailed and bespoke advice to clients thanks to our small and highly specialised team of partners, solicitors and legal executives based in Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
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