Essential points
- Employers should ensure that their own dismissal, disciplinary and grievance policies and procedures comply with the Acas Code of practice on disciplinary and grievance procedures.
- Employers must follow a fair procedure when dealing with both grievances and disciplinary matters, including conducting an invesitgation, allowing a companion, keeping a written record of what was decided, any actions taken, whether an appeal was lodged, and the outcome of that appeal.
- In the event of a dispute, an employment tribunal should be a last resort, when all other options have been exhausted.
- During a disciplinary procedure, HR advice should be limited to questions of law, procedure and process. The actual findings on culpability and sanction should be decided by the manager.
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Disclaimer
Please note: While every care has been taken in compiling this content, CIPD cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. These notes are not intended to be a substitute for specific legal advice.
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