Why The OPRA Group Is Investing in More In-Person Events
At The OPRA Group, we believe that staying informed is just as important as staying connected, therefore, we’re making a renewed commitment to attending more in-person networking events. These events provide an excellent opportunity to build relationships, share ideas, learn, and stay ahead.
Recently, our Marketing Manager, Sharon Butler-Felby, attended the Basildon Business Leaders Breakfast Briefing, “Workforce 2026: What Business Leaders Need to Know”, hosted at Buzz Bingo, Basildon.
This event was very well organised, Sharon was welcomed with a breakfast roll and a selection of drinks, and the hosts Palmers Law, provided a full goody bag and explained the changes really well. Following the presentation there was a Q&A session with a panel of experts. Alongside the valuable legal updates, the event reinforced something we’ve always believed at The OPRA Group, that relationships matter consequently, the event strengthened the local business community.
The event brought together business owners, HR professionals, and senior leaders from across the borough to discuss one of the biggest topics facing employers today, the Employment Rights Act 2025 and therefore, what it means for UK businesses.
Employment Rights Are Changing
The session, led by employment law specialists from Palmers Law, highlighted how the Employment Rights Act will significantly reshape the employment landscape over the coming months and years. For employers, these changes are not something to think about in the future, they’re absolutely to prepare for now.
Some of the key areas discussed included:
- Reviewing harassment policies and reporting procedures.
- Ensuring managers and employees understand their responsibilities.
- Strengthening probation processes and management training.
- Reviewing contracts of employment.
- Reviewing flexible working policies.
- Preparing for changes affecting zero-hours contracts.
- Ensuring workforce planning remains compliant with future legislation.
One of the strongest messages from the morning was simple, preparation is key. Businesses that begin reviewing their HR documentation and people processes now, will therefore, be in a much stronger position when further legislative changes are introduced.
HR Is More Than Policies
Another important takeaway was that compliance isn’t just about having policies on a shelf. It’s about creating a workplace where people feel supported, as a result, managers are confident making decisions, and processes are applied fairly and consistently. As employment law continues to evolve, organisations should also consider how they evidence their decision-making.
For example, when organising:
- Christmas parties
- Social events
- Client entertainment
- Networking events
- Team-building activities
- Off-site meetings
Simple written risk assessments can help demonstrate that your organisation has considered employee wellbeing, health and safety, safeguarding, and potential workplace risks. Good governance isn’t just about protecting your business, it’s about protecting your people.
Why Networking Matters
Ultimately, no webinar or email newsletter can replace the conversations that happen over a coffee or breakfast with like-minded professionals. That’s why you’ll be seeing more of The OPRA Group at networking events across our specialist sectors throughout the year.
Sharon said ‘It was a very well organised event and a fun way to end the session and to promote the venue, was a few quick games of bingo, with three great prizes won!’, she added ‘the organisers ensured we ‘worked the room’ by asking us all to sit at different spots after the break’.
How The OPRA Group Can Help
Ultimately, the upcoming employment law reforms present an opportunity for businesses to review their HR practices and ensure they’re ready for the future. Our HR specialists can support your organisation with:
- HR Policy Reviews
- Employee Handbooks
- Employment Contracts
- HR Compliance Audits
- Employment Law Guidance
- Manager Training
- Performance Management
- Employee Relations
- Workplace Risk & Compliance Advice
In conclusion, preparing now can help reduce risk, improve consistency, and ensure your organisation remains compliant as legislation evolves. If you’re unsure whether your current policies are fit for purpose, we’d be delighted to have a conversation. Together, we can help your business prepare for Workforce 2026 and beyond.
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