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

Does an employee have to get signed back to work if they have been signed off by a Dr?

No, an employee doesn’t need to be signed back to work by a doctor unless their employer specifically requires it, such as for health and safety reasons. Fitness to work should be discussed at the return to work meeting.

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 […]

If an employee is sick during their notice period do I pay SSP or normal pay?

You pay normal pay if the employee is off sick and unable to work during their notice period.

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.

If an employee is suspended pending investigation and they produce a fit note saying work related stress which process do I now follow?

You continue the suspension process, as a fit note for work-related stress does not override the suspension. However, you should acknowledge the fit note, offer support, and manage the investigation sensitively.

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