FAQs

What is the process for filing a workplace grievance?

Review the Policy: Check your company’s grievance procedure, usually in the employee handbook.
Informal Discussion: Try to resolve the issue informally by speaking to your manager or HR.
Formal Complaint: If unresolved, submit a formal grievance in writing, detailing the issue and any attempts to resolve it.
Investigation: HR or a designated person will investigate the grievance, gathering evidence and speaking to relevant parties.
Outcome: You’ll be informed of the outcome and any actions taken.
Appeal: If unsatisfied, you can appeal the decision following the company’s appeal process. You will be asked to provide a clear rationale on your reasons for appeal.
Ensure the grievance is documented and follow the correct steps for a fair process.

For free managers guides and templates – Disciplinary & Grievance Guide and support templates (Support section) 👉 – https://breathingspacehr.co.uk/how-to-hr/

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Other questions we get asked about Support

What is considered workplace harassment?

Workplace harassment is any unwanted conduct related to a protected characteristic (e.g., age, race, sex, disability, religion) that creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment. Harassment can include verbal, physical, or non-verbal behaviour and can involve bullying, inappropriate jokes, or discriminatory comments (For a free Managers Guide , go to How To HR […]

What documents should we keep during grievances/disciplinaries?

Investigatory notes, statements, letters/invitations, evidence considered, outcome letters, and appeal records. Store securely and only as long as necessary.

How can I reduce the risk of lawsuits due to wrongful termination?

To minimise legal risks: Consult Experts – Seek HR advice when handling complex HR matters! Follow Employment Laws – Stay updated on labour laws and regulations. Document Everything – Keep detailed records of performance, complaints, and terminations. Train Managers & HR – Provide training on fair hiring, workplace conduct and payroll compliance. Use Clear Policies – Ensure policies on termination, discrimination, and wages are well documented and consistently applied. Conduct Regular Audits – Review payroll, contracts, and workplace practices to identify risks.

HR admin takes too much time. How can we streamline it?

Adopt an HRIS for leave, records, and documents; standardise templates; and automate onboarding/offboarding checklists and reminders. Call Breathing Space as we provide Admin support!

An employee has raised a grievance. What’s the process?

Acknowledge promptly Investigate impartially Hold a grievance meeting (allow a companion), decide and confirm in writing, and offer an appeal. Keep clear records and timeframes.

How do we handle disciplinaries?

Start with a fair investigation. Consider suspension only if necessary. If there’s a case to answer, invite to a hearing with evidence, allow a companion, decide an appropriate outcome, and offer a right of appeal.

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