The Manchester HR Conference, titled "Dismissal for HR: Shaping New Developments into Solution-Focused Answers for Employers," will take place on 25 March 2026 at The Lowry Hotel, chaired by Trinity Chambers barrister Helen Hogben. This full-day event aims to help human resources professionals navigate the increasingly complex legal landscape surrounding employee terminations by providing court-proven, practical solutions. Hogben, an experienced employment and discrimination barrister with a national practice, will deliver the keynote address and lead discussions with a panel of legal experts throughout the conference.
The conference agenda addresses some of the most challenging dismissal scenarios employers currently face. Rebecca Peck of Bexley Beaumont will explore strategies for managing obstructive employee behavior during performance management processes, including when employees resist engagement, allege bullying, or take sick leave. Danielle Ingham from Mills & Reeve will provide guidance on handling "word-against-word" scenarios involving inappropriate behavior between employees, particularly at off-site events like conferences and parties. These sessions reflect the nuanced situations HR professionals must navigate in modern workplaces.
Neurodivergence in the workplace presents particular challenges, which Angela Brumpton of Gunnercooke will address, focusing on accommodating undiagnosed neurodivergence when reasonable adjustments do not yield required improvements. Mary Walker from Gordons will examine the difficult question of when to act on employees who are negative, disruptive, or a poor cultural fit, even if they are not objectively underperforming. Bryn Doyle of Lewis Silkin will offer insights on minimizing legal risks when addressing persistent and disruptive absences caused by underlying mental health conditions, while Naeema Choudry from Eversheds Sutherland will clarify the complexities of "suitable alternative employment" for employees on maternity leave during redundancy situations.
Helen Hogben's extensive experience in employment and discrimination law, including her work on complex cases detailed in her notable cases and her commitment to professional development through seminars and webinars, positions her to guide these critical conversations. The conference offers five hours of Continuing Professional Development for delegates and includes lunch, providing an opportunity for networking and practical learning. For registration and detailed information about the event, interested professionals can visit the White Paper Conference website.
