As workforce challenges continue to evolve across the social care sector, HR leaders are navigating significant changes in employment legislation, increasing organisational risk, and emerging opportunities presented by technology. This online VODG HR Network meeting will bring together HR Directors and senior people professionals to explore the practical implications of workforce reform and discuss how organisations can prepare for the future.
Laura Welchew, Partner at Trowers & Hamlins, will provide an overview of forthcoming employment rights reforms, including changes relating to zero-hours contracts, probation and dismissal processes, day-one employment rights, and the wider implications for workforce planning.
Laura will also lead a session on preventing sexual harassment in the workplace, focusing on employer responsibilities, organisational risk management, effective prevention measures, workplace culture, and responding appropriately to concerns and investigations.
The meeting will then explore the role of artificial intelligence in HR. Chris Lines, Senior Territory Channel Manager, Microsoft Tech for Social Impact, will share practical insights into how AI can support HR functions, alongside key considerations around governance, risk management and responsible adoption.
The session will conclude with a facilitated discussion, providing members with an opportunity to share experiences, discuss workforce risks and manager capability, and consider how organisations can strengthen their readiness for upcoming changes.
This meeting offers a valuable opportunity for HR leaders to stay informed, learn from subject matter experts, and connect with peers facing similar workforce challenges.
Speakers
Laura Welchew
Chris Lines
Draft Programme
|
10:00 |
Welcome, sector updates and network priorities |
Kerry Hamilton, Director of Membership and Operations, VODG, and VODG Co-Chairs |
|
10:10 |
Workforce Reform: Preparing for Employment Rights Changes |
Laura Welchew, Partner, Trowers & Hamlins |
|
10:40 |
Preventing Sexual Harassment: Managing Organisational Risk |
Laura Welchew, Partner, Trowers & Hamlins |
|
11:10 |
AI in HR: Practical Opportunities, Risks and Governance |
Chris Lines, Senior Territory Channel Manager, Microsoft Tech for Social Impact |
|
11:40 |
Facilitated discussion: Workforce risks, manager capability and organisational readiness |
Members |
|
11:55 |
Future priorities and close |
Kerry Hamilton, Director of Membership and Operations, VODG, and VODG Co-Chairs |
Accessibility
Please note, should you have any accessibility requirements, we will do our best to make necessary arrangements to support you; however, we may require up to four weeks notice, so please list your requirements on the booking form. Closed captions are used as standard in online meetings. If you have any questions, please email [email protected].
Join the HR Directors' Professional Network
The HR directors' network provides colleagues a secure space to discuss pertinent issues and topics via our online forum, to upload documents and to view the lastest network events.
