In this episode of Barely Legal, Morally Wrong we unpack the difference between NDAs and FOIs and why they often work in opposite directions. We look at how FOI requests promote transparency for public bodies, when a subject access request can be used in the private sector, and the role of the Information Commissioner when disclosure is disputed. We discuss whistleblowing protections, proposed limits on NDAs in cases of harassment and discrimination, and the practical reality of confidentiality clauses, document dumps and liquidated damages. We also explore when an FOI can cut across confidentiality in the public sector and why trust still sits at the heart of most agreements. Expect straight talking, real examples and the final question we always ask. Was it barely legal or morally wrong.

In this episode of Barely Legal, Morally Wrong, Alix Meekison and Mandy Laurie unpack clashing rights at work and beyond. They look at how the courts balance protected characteristics, why no single right automatically wins, and how disability and belief are assessed in practice. Along the way they revisit headline cases, from a guest house room refusal and the Northern Ireland cake dispute to the Miss Higgs social media ruling. They explore flags, free expression and when symbolism can create a hostile setting for staff, as well as day to day tensions around pronouns, taking the knee and professional duties to treat without bias. Expect straight talking, practical takeaways, and one simple question at the end… was it barely legal or morally wrong.

In this episode of Barely Legal, Morally Wrong we ask a simple question: does HR need a glow up? We look at how HR moved from the heroes of the COVID years to a function pulled in every direction. We talk about line managers off-loading people issues, the rise of D and I and whether the spend delivers, AI-written grievances, DSARs and FOIs that drain time, and the pressure to meet every need for every person. We also ask when HR can say no, what a fair pushback looks like, and why a safe space for HR matters.
Expect straight talking, practical takeaways, and one question at the end: was it barely legal or morally wrong?
This conversation is for information only and not legal advice. Subscribe for new episodes every month.