The Forrest Group

10/06/2026

Sophie, our CEO, has been out visiting clients this month. Building strong relationships is at the heart of what we do, and face-to-face meetings provide a valuable opportunity to understand our clients' needs, discuss upcoming challenges and ensure we're delivering the right support for their business.

04/06/2026

A recent Employment Appeal Tribunal case shows how important it is to apply workplace policies fairly, consistently, and with attention to each person’s situation.

In this case, a rail worker lost a job opportunity and was banned from safety-critical work for five years after failing a drug test because of prescribed medical cannabis.

The employee told his employer about his prescription, but Network Rail’s policy still required testing. This led to a failed test for THC metabolites.
This issue has taken four years to get to court, showing why it is important to handle these situations correctly from the start. Cases can be expensive, take a lot of time, and harm everyone involved.

02/06/2026

Workplace wellbeing was once seen as just a “nice to have.” Now, it is a top business priority.

More organisations are now investing in occupational health, wellbeing programs, and mental health policies because of growing concerns about long-term sickness related to mental health.

Employers are realising that supporting employee wellbeing is not only about meeting obligations. It also helps boost productivity, improve retention, and build a positive workplace culture.

With the right policies, processes, and support, businesses can manage absences better, help employees sooner, and create healthier workplaces.

If you need help with occupational health, wellbeing strategies, or reviewing your current policies, our team is ready to support you.

📞 01892 726060
✉️ [email protected]

27/05/2026

Did you know?

The Health and Safety Executive is currently running a consultation to improve reporting regulations under RIDDOR, open until 30 June.

The aim is to update how work-related injuries, ill health and dangerous occurrences are reported to the regulator — ensuring the system remains clear, effective and fit for purpose.

For businesses, this is a timely reminder of the importance of robust risk assessments and high-quality Health & Safety support.

Getting the fundamentals right not only supports compliance but helps protect your people and your business.

If you’d like support reviewing your Health & Safety processes, our team is here to help.

📞 01892 726060
✉️ [email protected]

21/05/2026

Awareness of rights around discrimination, harassment and whistleblowing is higher than ever — and claims are rising as a result.

In Q4 2025 alone, claims increased by 54%.

With further changes to unfair dismissal laws expected from January, this trend is only set to continue as employee protections increase.

At the same time, the Employment Tribunal system is under significant pressure, with delays now stretching to up to 4 years for hearings.

This creates a challenging environment for both employers and employees. For businesses, it’s a clear reminder that how issues are handled early on has never been more important.

Early resolution isn’t just good practice — it’s a commercial necessity.
Putting the right processes, documentation and support in place can help avoid escalation, reduce risk and protect your business.

If you’d like support strengthening your approach or managing workplace issues effectively, our team is here to help.

📞 01892 726060
✉️ [email protected]

19/05/2026

The May edition of Forrest Scene is now live!

Read the full newsletter here: https://shorturl.at/hSwrn

15/05/2026

In this month’s Tunbridge Wells Business Magazine, our CEO, Sophie Forrest-Lavery, discusses what businesses need to know about the upcoming RIDDOR review.

Read the article here: https://issuu.com/twbm/docs/tw_business_magazine_may_2026/41

Dive into our extensive resources on the topic that interests you. It's like a masterclass to be explored at your own pace.

07/05/2026

Employment Rights Act 2025 Update

From October 2026, around a dozen further changes are expected under the Employment Rights Act.

Take a look at the timetable on our website and contact us for support now to ensure you’re prepared with all the changes coming next.

https://shorturl.at/JirtW

05/05/2026

New UK Minimum Wage rates are now in effect

From 1 April 2026, the latest increases to the UK minimum wage came into force.

A quick recap:

• National Living Wage (21+) – £12.71 (was £12.21)
• 18–20 year olds – £10.85 (was £10.00)
• 16–17 year olds – £8.00 (was £7.55)
• Apprentice rate – £8.00 (was £7.55)
• Accommodation offset – £11.10 (was £10.66)

By now (end of April), businesses should have:

✔ Updated their pay rates
✔ Processed at least one payroll using the new figures

If not, this needs to be addressed as soon as possible to avoid compliance risks.

📞 01892 726060
✉️ [email protected]

30/04/2026

We had a wonderful afternoon at the St George’s Day Lunch at The Spa Hotel last week, all in support of Pickering Cancer.

Our CEO, Sophie, enjoyed presenting some of the auction prizes.

It was a fantastic event that helped raise much-needed funds for an important local service in Tunbridge Wells.

📷 Photos by Sarah Bartholomew