Please note that this piece is not based on, and does not contain the feelings, or opinions of any of the Strategi Solutions Group, or Strategi HR team.
As 2024 unfolded, several high-profile HR stories hit the headlines. Capturing the public’s attention, they encompassed topics such as leadership, workplace conduct, and employee rights.
Here’s a look at the top HR-related news stories that made the newspapers this year:
1. Post Office Scandal – Flawed Leadership Exposed
The Post Office scandal, involving the wrongful prosecution of over 900 sub-postmasters for theft, false accounting and fraud, has brought serious flaws in leadership to light. The investigation into the handling of the case reveals a culture of mismanagement and lack of accountability, highlights a detrimental oversight in corporate governance, and provides key learnings on the importance of ethical leadership.. It emphasizes the importance of organizations cultivating a culture where employee feedback is acknowledged and addressed, with accountability serving as a fundamental aspect of leadership.
One function of leadership is the culture you create!
In a standard HR framework when an employee raises an issue, it’s vital that this is promptly and thoroughly investigated maintaining the trust and morale within the workforce whilst addressing the issue effectively.
2. Tesco Bank Staff Transferred to Barclays
Tesco Bank’s decision to transfer staff to Barclays as part of a strategic realignment highlights a growing trend of team movement in the financial services sector.
In situations like this, employers need to consider what employees are thinking, and questions that they may have. For example, transitions can raise questions about job security, career development, and the role of companies in facilitating smooth employee transitions.
When employees feel secure, valued, and supported during transitions, it helps to retain talent and ensures that they can continue to contribute positively to the company’s success. Ultimately, employees are indeed the backbone of any company, and taking care of them during transitions is critical for both employee well-being and company performance.
3. Mohamed Al Fayed Allegations
The allegations against Mohamed Al Fayed sparked debates about power, harassment, and responsibility within the leadership teams of businesses. This case has reignited discussions on how organizations should handle allegations involving high-profile figures, emphasizing the need for transparency and thorough investigations.
Allegations such as this should serve as a wake-up call for employers to reflect on the culture and procedures within their organisations, especially in light of the Worker Protection Act that came into effect on October 26, 2024. This law places a strong emphasis on employers taking proactive measures to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace, with the requirement to take “all reasonable steps” to prevent sexual harassment.
In the case of high-profile allegations like those surrounding Mohamed Al Fayed, where workplace behaviour or misconduct has come under scrutiny, it highlights the importance of fostering a work environment where harassment is not tolerated. Businesses must pay attention to the broader cultural environment within their organizations.
A positive, respectful, and inclusive culture is key to preventing sexual harassment. This includes leadership setting the tone for appropriate behaviour, creating a safe space for employees to speak up without fear of victimisation, and providing effective training programs for all staff members.
The Worker Protection Act introduces legal consequences, including vicarious liability, which means employers can be held responsible for the actions of their employees. As a result, ensuring compliance with this new duty is not just a matter of doing the right thing; it also has significant legal and reputational implications for employers. This shift reinforces the importance of addressing workplace harassment with a more proactive and thorough approach to prevent any potential claims or incidents.
4. Gregg Wallace Steps Aside Over Misconduct Allegations
Celebrity chef Gregg Wallace stepped aside from his BBC role after allegations of sexual misconduct came to light.
Allegations such as this emphasise how actions in a workplace, even if intended as jokes, can be perceived differently by others. The key point is that sexual harassment is not just about intent, but also about the impact on the person receiving the comments or jokes. If the remarks are unwanted, unwelcomed, or make someone feel uncomfortable, they can be considered harassment under the law.
Public figures, especially those in high-profile positions, are under increasing scrutiny to ensure their behaviour is respectful and does not contribute to an environment where others feel unsafe or disrespected. Employers also play a critical role in swiftly addressing such allegations to protect the reputation of their organization and maintain public trust.
The new legal duty around harassment reflects a shift towards focusing on the feelings and perspectives of the individual receiving the comment, rather than just the intent behind the behaviour. This underscores the importance of fostering respectful interactions and being mindful of the impact of one’s words and actions, particularly in public or professional settings.
5. Strictly Come Dancing – BBC Apologises to Amanda Abbington
The BBC apologising to actress Amanda Abbington comes after a bullying case on popular show, Strictly Come Dancing. This case underpins the need for businesses to take a zero-tolerance approach to bullying and harassment. This event being brought to light through the media should serve as a reminder for all employers to ensure supportive, inclusive work environments for their teams.
6. Employment Rights Bill Published
In a major step forward for the protection of workers, the UK government has published the Employment Rights Bill. This aims to strengthen rights around pay transparency, flexible working, and protections for gig workers.
The Employment Rights Bill will impact nearly every aspect of employment law and represents one of the biggest changes since the introduction of the National Minimum Wage.
As we move towards 2025, these stories collectively shine a light on the pressing need for effective leadership, accountability, and policies that prioritise the well-being of employees. The stories also show what to look out for, and what to consider to ensure that your business is a great place to be for your teams.
Please note that this piece is not based on, and does not contain the feelings, or opinions of any of the Strategi Solutions Group, or Strategi HR team. However, if you’re looking for HR support, need expert advice, or you’re wanting to make your business a wonderful place to work, our we’re on hand to help.
