Do you have a work-related grievance?
If you have a concern, problem, or complaint that you would like to bring up at work this is known as a grievance and a proper process needs to be followed by your employer. Your employment contract should specify the person you should contact and the steps required, or where you can find the information.
What counts as a grievance at work?
A grievance can be brought on an individual, group, or union basis. It can be something you feel has not been dealt with properly if you have already brought it up informally, such as discrimination or harassment. Alternatively, you may feel it needs to be dealt with in a formal process from the outset.
What happens during the grievance process?
A grievance first needs to be set out in writing to your employer. Your employer will set up a meeting to discuss your grievance and you may take a fellow employee or trade union representative with you. Your companion can address the hearing, put your case, sum it up, and respond on your behalf. Your employer does not have to allow your companion to answer questions on your behalf.
They will investigate and then write to you with their conclusions and whether your grievance has been upheld.
If your grievance is upheld, your employer will set out a proposal to remedy the situation. If your grievance is not upheld, your employer should give you an opportunity to appeal.
If you choose to appeal, you must send grounds of appeal to your employer. There will be an appeal meeting and again you are entitled to be accompanied by a fellow employee or trade union representative.
A further investigation should be carried out by your employer taking into account the grounds of appeal. Again, you will receive an outcome letter indicating whether your appeal has been successful and, if so, what they intend to do. If the appeal is unsuccessful, this is usually the end of the process.
How ELS Solicitors can help
Our specialist team can help and advise you on whether you have a valid claim for a grievance and on what grounds. They can support you through the process and ensure it is carried out properly.