Handling an employee grievance correctly can mean the difference between a successful resolution and it escalating to an employment tribunal.
You should have a clear grievance procedure in place, which must be easily accessible for all employees and be part of your employee handbook and their employment contract.
Managing a Grievance - The Stats
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Top 10 Tips for Managing a Grievance
- The informal route: When the complaint is made ensure line managers speak to the employee and look for a solution.
- Ask the right questions: Start by exploring what outcome an employee wants. This focusses on working towards a solution.
- Moving to the formal route: If you can’t resolve the issue the employee must put it in writing to take it forward.
- Seek advice: You must comply with the ACAS code of practice on disciplinary and grievance procedures.
- Representing your company: The employee’s manager is the most appropriate person. If it’s about the manager then another manager or HR should take it.
- Establish the facts: Carry out a full investigation and collect all relevant evidence and speak with other employees.
- Grievance interviews: Invite the employee who raised the grievance to a meeting. They can be accompanied.
- Keep records: Every step must be in writing, including meetings invites and decisions made. Always minute every meeting.
- Communicate: The employee should be made aware of the process to be undertaken and must be informed of the outcome in writing.
- Prepare for an appeal: If a grievance is rejected or partially rejected the employee can appeal. It should be heard by another manager.
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