The HR Mistakes Stortford Employers Can’t Afford - Natalie Slade

This episode is brought to you by: StortAI: https://stortai.carrd.co/ StortBox: https://stortbox.co.uk/ Bishop's Stortford Community Newsletter: https://bishops-stortford-community-newsletter.beehiiv.com/ Natalie Slade is an HR consultant and the founder of HR 2 Go Consultancy Ltd. She supports small businesses across Bishop’s Stortford, Hertfordshire, Essex and London, particularly those without an in-house HR function. In this episode, Natalie talks about moving from an established HR career into running her own consultancy. She explains when growing businesses should seek HR support, why contracts and policies matter, and how problems often appear when informal working arrangements are allowed to continue for too long. Natalie also discusses upcoming employment law changes, the importance of stronger probation and onboarding processes, and the risks of relying on AI-generated contracts, grievances and legal information without professional review. **Links** HR 2 Go Consultancy Ltd: https://www.hr2goconsultancy.co.uk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-slade-b65a3162/ **Stortford Spotlight** Billboard in Jackson Square “Life is for living, so live it to the full and don’t worry what other people think.” Natalie chose this as a message for tweens and teenagers who may feel pressure from social media and other people’s expectations. **Secret Spot** Red, White and Blue Country Park https://www.parksherts.co.uk/parks/red-white-and-blue/ Natalie chose the fields beyond Grange Paddocks and along the railway line. She enjoys walking there with her dog and the friendly conversations with other local dog walkers. **Local Legends** Mina at Grove Cottage https://mencapgrovecottage.org/ Natalie gave a shout out to Mina for her energy, passion and fundraising work for Grove Cottage, supporting people with learning disabilities in the local community. **Support the Podcast** You can support The Bishop’s Stortford Community Podcast through The Giving Lottery. Every ticket helps fund equipment, recording time, and the ongoing work of telling local stories while also supporting good causes. Support here: https://www.givinglottery.org.uk/support/bishops-stortford-community-podcast-cic