People management was on the agenda at Ringlink HQ yesterday (Thursday) as members gathered for the very first HR Coffee Hour, marking a significant step in the organisation’s expanded service offering.
The event, led by newly appointed HR Manager Faye Barron, provided a practical roadmap for businesses facing some of the most substantial employment law reforms in a generation.
More than a dozen attendees from different companies listened – cuppa in hand – as Faye navigated the complexities of the new legislation in a focused but lively session, ably assisted by HR Intern Lucy Simpson.
Navigating the Employment Rights Act
Faye, who brings almost 25 years of consultancy and in-house expertise to the role, emphasised that being a proactive employer is now a commercial necessity.
The session was structured into three distinct phases, from immediate changes introduced this month, to reforms coming later this year and those on the horizon for 2027.
“It is such a fast-moving environment just now, it can be hard to keep up with what is going on in terms of being an employer,” said Faye.
“It was great to have so many attendees both here in the room as well as online, and to hear the challenges that they are facing and how we can help them.”
The presentation looked at critical issues such as updated tribunal processes, harassment legislation and the shifting landscape of probationary periods. Faye identified practical “do it now” steps for each section, to make sure that attendees left with a clear sense of priority rather than a list of rules.
Engagement and expert support
The event closed with a spirited question & answer session, covering a range of member pain points. Discussions ranged from the nuances of self-employed versus employee status to the practicalities of holiday record retention. There was even a healthy debate regarding the legal obligations of employers when family members are reluctant to take their leave.
The launch of a dedicated HR Services division is a direct response to Ringlink member feedback. By providing a professional resource for people management, the co-operative continues to evolve from its agricultural roots into an organisation offering a full range of relevant services for business across Scotland.
The new service allows Ringlink’s 4,000 members to access specialist advice previously only available through an in-house resource or external consultancies. For those who attended, the session also included a brief self-assessment tool, informing a free 20-minute consultation with Faye tailored to their business.
Ringlink members who were unable to attend the Laurencekirk event or the digital stream can still access support. The HR Services division is offering a free 20-minute consultation to help identify key priorities and ensure businesses are positioned to attract and retain the best talent in the rural and land-based sectors.
To book your self-assessment HR check, please contact hr@ringlinkservices.co.uk.
The Coffee Hour is the first in a series of HR-focused sessions, with more information on future events coming soon.
