The Diary of an HR Consultant 🤓

Autism in the Workplace

In the latest episode of The Diary of an HR Consultant, Victoria from Ambridge HR responds to recent remarks made by Nigel Farage about autism — and explains why businesses need to take neurodiversity seriously.
Farage’s suggestion that autistic individuals are “not quite normal” isn’t just outdated — it’s harmful. But rather than dwell on the controversy, this episode offers a constructive path forward.
Victoria explores:
- The value autistic individuals bring to the workplace
- How businesses can support them through inclusive recruitment and workplace adjustments
- Why this isn’t about being politically correct — it’s about good leadership, legal compliance, and unlocking talent.
If you're an HR professional, business leader, or simply care about fair workplaces, this is a must-listen.

The New Rules of Absence Management: Wellbeing, Workloads and Working from Home

In this episode of The Diary of an HR Consultant, Victoria dives into the evolving world of absence management — and why it's more than just tracking sick days. Since the pandemic, the workplace has shifted dramatically. From burnout to flexible working, business owners now face a new set of challenges in managing absence. Victoria explores how to approach it with a blend of compassion and strategy, and how to support employee wellbeing every step of the way. You’ll hear: - What’s changed post-Covid in absence trends. - Practical, actionable tips for absence management. - How to support employee wellbeing in small businesses. Tools she recommends: Breathe HR, and Vivup Perkbox 🔧 Ambridge HR is a proud partner of Breathe HR — the simple HR software that helps SMEs manage absences more effectively. 👉 Try it via Ambridge HR's referral link: https://www.breathehr.com/en-gb/sign-up?hrp=4MBR1DGE 💚 We also work with wellbeing platforms to support your team: Perkbox & Vivup Partnership https://www.vivupbenefits.co.uk/perkbox-vivup Just quote “Ambridge HR” for your discounts. Whether you’re an HR lead or a business owner trying to do it all, this episode will give you the insights you need to take a proactive, people-first approach to managing absence. 🎙️ Tune in now — and let’s rethink absence together.

Rethinking Retirement – Supporting Staff Without a Retirement Age

With no legal retirement age in Britain, how do you even begin a conversation about retirement with your team? In this episode of The Diary of an HR Consultant, Victoria from Ambridge HR explores this delicate but important topic — from why many people don’t want to retire, to how businesses can approach the subject with empathy and structure. We’ll cover the top reasons employees resist retirement, how to support later-life career conversations, and how sabbaticals might help your people fulfil lifelong dreams without saying goodbye to their roles too soon.
Whether you're an employer wondering what your responsibilities are, or just looking for a human-centred approach to succession planning, this one’s for you.
💬 Got an HR dilemma you'd like answered on the show? Get in touch — we might feature your question in a future episode!

Inclusion, Identity, and the Law: what the supreme court ruling means for businesses

In this episode, Victoria from Ambridge HR unpacks the UK Supreme Court's ruling that the legal definition of 'woman' refers to biological sex—and what it means for businesses navigating inclusion, compliance, and workplace culture.
We dive into the heart of diversity and inclusion, explore the practical steps employers can take to support trans and non-binary employees, and discuss why a Trans Inclusion Policy is now more essential than ever.
💡 Whether you're an HR leader or a small business owner, this episode gives you clarity, confidence, and clear actions.
Now:
🏳️‍🌈 Review your Equality, Diversity & Inclusion policies
🏳️‍🌈 Ensure you have a Trans Inclusion Policy in place
🏳️‍🌈 Create space for respectful dialogue, training, and inclusive leadership
📲 Listen now and subscribe on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
🔗 Visit www.ambridgehr.co.uk for further guidance and advice.

Navigating the Storm: How Trump’s Tariffs Impact the UK Employment Market

In this episode of The Diary of an HR Consultant, Victoria breaks down the ripple effects of President Trump’s new tariff policies and what they mean for UK businesses and the employment landscape. From economic shifts and supply chain challenges to workforce planning and employee retention strategies, she shares actionable HR insights to help you lead with confidence through uncertainty.
Need support in reviewing your workforce strategy or policies? Let’s chat and create a tailored plan for your business. Contact Ambridge HR today.
Struggling to communicate with your team about the changes ahead? We can help you craft messages that resonate and build trust. Book a consultation with us.
Want to make sure your company is fully compliant with new trade laws and employment regulations? Reach out for a legal compliance audit. Let’s ensure you’re covered.
www.ambridgehr.co.uk
Email: hr.enquiries@ambridgehr.co.uk

A Day in the Life of an HR Consultant

Ever wondered what an HR consultant **actually** gets up to in a day? In this episode, I’m taking you behind the scenes for a no-filter look at the real-life wins, curveballs, and everything in between that make up a typical day in my world at Ambridge HR.
💡 Need help updating your family leave policies to reflect new legislation? Reach out today.
💡Is your business staying compliant with the National Minimum Wage increases? Let’s check your payroll together.
💡 Are you ready to address conflict in your workplace before it escalates? Contact me to develop a custom conflict resolution strategy. 
Get in touch!
www.ambridgehr.co.uk
✨️ Shining a light through the fog of HR ✨️