The Acas Podcast

In this episode, we take a big-picture look at employee voice: why it matters now and what we need to do to strengthen it. As workplaces grapple with unprecedented change, what role should voice play in helping us to navigate the present and future challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic? We’re joined by Neil Carberry, Chief Executive of the REC, Paul Nowak, Deputy General Secretary of the TU...

With many employers looking at changing contracts as a way of avoiding redundancies, we ask Acas advisers Mark Makin and Helen Robinson how to do it well. We explore: -         The best way to change employment contracts -         Why consulting staff matters -        &...

Acas adviser Chau Doan covers the main questions employees have been asking about redundancy and rights. We look at: What to do if you think you’ve been made redundant unfairly How to encourage your employer to look at alternatives to redundancy (if they aren’t already) Your rights around changing contracts Pay and notice periods Plus why checking your contract, communicating early and following t...

Acas advisers Maggie Steven and Faye Law talk through the key things to keep in mind when managing redundancies. We look at communicating well and why it matters, maintaining trust, how to support the wellbeing of all involved and ensuring it’s a fair process. Episode links: www.acas.org.uk/redundancy The Acas Helpline: 0300 123 1100  For podcast and event updates sign up to our free  em...

In his last week as Acas Chair, Sir Brendan Barber shares his insights from behind the scenes. We find out how he successfully helped resolve the junior doctors dispute, plus his tips on handling conflict, why listening matters and the key issues for working life after the coronavirus pandemic. Plus: what it is really like to be a knight. Episode resources: Acas Policy Paper: Brendan Barber on Bui...

With the furlough scheme beginning to end, Acas adviser Sue Raftery shares her insights into the main challenges for workplaces and how to navigate them. We look at ideas for minimising the practical and emotional impact of transition from furlough, plus the critical conversations employers, managers and staff need to be having.   Episode resources: Acas advice on furlough:  www.acas.org...

Juggling childcare or looking after others alongside working from home, without burning out, is a real struggle. Mental health expert Abigail Hirshman unpacks what employers, managers and carers themselves can and should do to build and support carers' wellbeing during coronavirus.  Plus: what happens if we ignore this, the common mistakes employers make and how to broach the topic when you t...

Acas workplace adviser Rich Jones shares his insights for employers, managers and returning workers on how we can return well. We explore: the major issues, the best way to raise concerns, why listening and taking action matters, what role employers, managers and workers can each play and what to do if your plans need to change. Useful links: Acas guidance:  https://www.acas.org.uk/worki...

In our first episode, Acas Chief Executive Susan Clews shares her key insight into what organisations can do to navigate the challenges that coronavirus presents. We look at building trust, returning to work and communicating in a crisis. Plus: Susan shares what she has personally learnt about leadership during coronavirus. For coronavirus workplace advice: www.acas.org.uk/coronavirus Full Transcr...