Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures

About this course.

Handling disciplinary and grievance matters well is one of the clearest tests of good management. When an employee’s conduct or performance falls short, or when an employee raises a concern or complaint about their treatment at work, the way the situation is handled affects not only that individual but the trust, morale and reputation of the whole organisation. Get it right and problems are resolved fairly, relationships are preserved and the workplace runs more smoothly. Get it wrong and the result can be lasting resentment, lost staff, costly employment tribunal claims and reputational damage. This course explains how to handle both kinds of situation fairly, consistently and in line with recognised good practice.

The course covers the Acas Code of Practice and its legal status, the disciplinary procedure step by step — establishing the facts, investigating, informing the employee in writing, holding the meeting, the right to be accompanied, deciding on action, sanctions and warnings — appeals, gross misconduct and summary dismissal, capability versus conduct, the grievance procedure and how to handle formal complaints, mediation, record-keeping, and how to avoid common pitfalls that lead to unfair dismissal claims at tribunal.