On 27th March 2025, JMW hosted an invitation-only HR Round Table with leaders from businesses across various sectors including recruitment, hospitality, and forensic services.

Led by Charlotte Beeley, Senior Associate in Employment Law, the round table was focussed on navigating sickness absences, with a particular focus on mental health. The roundtable discussion covered insights, strategies and best practices for managing and supporting employees through periods of illness. Laura Wharton, Partner, and Holly Murphy, Trainee, were also in attendance.

The roundtable began with a conversation surrounding the increase in mental health-related sickness leave. Harder to spot conditions such as stress and burnout were discussed, which will not usually have a formal diagnosis. Prevention strategies were discussed as well as the management of individuals with these conditions.

There was also an insight into the challenges faced by neurodiverse individuals at work, and how this may affect stress levels and sickness absences. There was some discussion surrounding differences between generations when it comes to expectations about work and the kind of support they should receive when they are unwell.

It was useful to hear about the relationships which facilitate effective decision-making for HR professionals, particularly the relationships with Occupational Health and GP practices.

We finished with a legal update surrounding upcoming changes, particularly with regards to the Employment Rights Bill.

We would like to thank our attendees for their insights and hope to see them for the next roundtable discussion due to take place in June 2025.