Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives. 

In this episode, Sarah Reid is joined by Employment Law & Dispute Resolution Associate Solicitor Kat Moody and Founder and CEO of Inspired HR, Nikki Masterman. 

Together, they break down the Employment Rights Act 2025 and its staged rollout across 2026 and 2027 – one of the biggest shake‑ups in UK employment law in decades.

They explain what’s changing, when it takes effect, and what employers, especially small and medium‑sized businesses, need to be doing now to stay compliant, manage costs and reduce their risk.

Here’s what we’ll cover in this episode:

• National minimum wage increases and common compliance pitfalls.

• Major reforms to Statutory Sick Pay (SSP), including day‑one rights and removal of the lower earnings limit.

• New day‑one rights for paternity and parental leave.

• Protecting staff and managing risk.

• The creation of the Fair Work Agency and what it could mean for inspections and enforcement.

• Unfair dismissal protection after six months’ service.

• What employers should be doing now.

This episode is essential listening for employers, HR professionals and employees who want a clear, practical guide to how the new Employment Rights Act will affect workplaces and how to get prepared in good time.

Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives.

In this important and sensitive episode, we’re raising awareness of domestic abuse, looking at what it really means, the legal protections available, and how community support can help people take those first steps towards safety and recovery.

We’re joined by Matthew Lockey, Associate Solicitor at Richard Reed Solicitors, and Julie Robinson, Service Manager at Impact Family Services, who have come together to highlight how legal and emotional support can work hand in hand to make a difference.

In this episode, we’ll cover:

• What domestic abuse really means and how it can take many forms
• Common misconceptions and why victims may struggle to seek help
• Legal protections available, including injunctions and non-molestation orders
• How Impact Family Services supports individuals and families beyond the legal process
• How legal and support services can collaborate to help survivors rebuild their lives

This episode is a reminder that domestic abuse can affect anyone, but no one has to face it alone.

If any of the topics discussed in this episode affect you, please reach out for support using the resources below.

Get in touch:

Richard Reed Solicitors

0191 567 0465 | info@richardreed.co.uk | Impact Family Services

Connect:

Matthew Lockey: LinkedIn

Julie Robinson: LinkedIn

Resources:

• National Domestic Abuse Helpline (24/7) 0808 2000 247
• National Centre for Domestic Violence (NCDV): Free legal help with emergency injunctions and protection orders.
• Women’s Aid Information, support, and access to local services.
• Respect Support for those wanting to change abusive behaviour and professionals working with perpetrators.
• HollieGuard: – Personal safety app that alerts trusted contacts if you’re in danger.
• Clare’s Law: Check if a partner has a history of abuse.
• Connected Families CIC: Community support and advocacy for families affected by abuse.
• Wearside Women in Need (WWiN): Refuge, advice, and support for women and children in Sunderland.
• Galop: LGBTQ+ anti-abuse charity providing confidential support.

Welcome to Legally Sound with Richard Reed, the podcast that simplifies the law and explores how it affects our daily lives.

In this episode, we are joined by Annaliese Barber, a Director at Richard Reed, qualified solicitor, Notary Public, and Head of the firm's Wills, Trusts, Probate & Court of Protection Department. We're also delighted to welcome Kay Carrick, Development Team Manager at St Cuthbert's Hospice, who oversees fundraising and legacy giving.

Today, we're exploring wills and the important role of charitable giving. We'll look at how leaving a gift to charity in your will can create a lasting legacy while potentially reducing inheritance tax. Kay shares the real impact these gifts have on St Cuthbert's Hospice and the community it serves.

In this episode, we'll cover:

• Why having a will is essential and what happens without one

• Types of gifts you can leave to charity in your will

• How charitable giving can reduce inheritance tax

• The impact of legacy gifts on St Cuthbert's Hospice

• Common misconceptions about charitable giving

• Practical steps for including a charity in your will

• How to start conversations about wills and end-of-life planning

Tune in to learn how a well-planned will can protect your loved ones while supporting causes close to your heart.

Get in touch:

Website: https://richardreed.co.uk/

Phone: 0191 567 0465

Email: info@richardreed.co.uk