The Manchester HR Conference, titled "Dismissal for HR: Shaping New Developments into Solution-Focused Answers for Employers," is scheduled for March 25, 2026, at The Lowry Hotel. Chaired by Trinity Chambers barrister Helen Hogben, the event aims to equip human resources professionals with practical, court-proven approaches to navigate the complex legal landscape of employee terminations. Helen Hogben, an experienced employment and discrimination barrister with a national practice, will deliver the keynote address and lead discussions with a panel of legal experts.
Hogben emphasized the importance of staying informed in an evolving HR landscape, stating, "The world of HR is constantly evolving, and it is crucial for employers to stay informed on the latest legal developments and best practices." Her extensive experience in employment and discrimination law, including her appointment as Junior Counsel to the Crown in 2023, informs her approach to these challenging topics, further detailed through her professional development resources at https://helenhogben.com/.
The conference agenda addresses nuanced challenges in modern employment law, with sessions designed to provide actionable insights. Rebecca Peck of Bexley Beaumont will explore strategies for managing obstructive behavior when employees resist engagement, allege bullying, or take sick leave. Danielle Ingham from Mills & Reeve will provide guidance on handling inappropriate behavior between employees at off-site events, while Angela Brumpton of Gunnercooke will discuss accommodating undiagnosed neurodivergence when reasonable adjustments prove insufficient.
Additional sessions will cover cultural misalignment, with Mary Walker from Gordons addressing when to act on negative or disruptive employees who are poor cultural fits. Bryn Doyle of Lewis Silkin will offer insights on minimizing legal risks when addressing persistent absences related to mental health conditions. Naeema Choudry from Eversheds Sutherland will clarify complexities around 'suitable alternative employment' for employees on maternity leave during redundancy situations.
For HR vendors, this conference highlights critical areas where legal expertise is increasingly demanded by clients, signaling opportunities for tailored solutions in compliance, training, and risk management. The focus on practical, court-proven approaches underscores a shift toward preventative strategies in HR, potentially driving demand for vendor services that support legal adherence and employee relations. Registration details are accessible via https://www.trinitychambers.co.uk/barristers/helen-hogben/, with the full-day conference including lunch and offering five hours of Continuing Professional Development for delegates, along with networking opportunities to enhance professional knowledge in handling dismissals fairly and legally.
