Masterclasses - Employment Law
Handling Discipline and Grievance
Overview
While peace and harmony in the workplace is something we all strive for, it is inevitable there will occasionally be conflict. Whether disagreements end amicably or at the doors of an employment tribunal depends in no small measure on how they are handled initially.
To formalise this process and attempt to instil some objectivity into what can be an often fraught situation, the Government has brought in a statutory procedure for handling discipline and dismissals, as well as grievances. Unfortunately, rather than simplify matters, the statutory procedures have succeeded in making disciplinary action and grievances more complicated to deal with.
Adding to the complexity is the fact that the statutory procedures are only one layer of regulation which needs to be taken into account. On top of this there may well be separate contractual procedures, and you will also have to take into account the good practice guidance contained within the Acas Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures.
This session will help delegates to avoid both the practical and legal pitfalls which might arise when handling a disciplinary or grievance issue.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this session, delegates will have the knowledge to enable them to:
· recognise when the statutory dispute resolution procedures should apply and deal confidently with them;
· recognise the differences between conduct and capability issues and deal with each effectively;
· feel confident about handling the entire disciplinary process whether it be the investigation, informal action, disciplinary hearing or appeal;
· understand the disciplinary sanctions available and when each is appropriate;
· feel confident about the entire grievance process, from preparing for a hearing to conducting it;
· understand the employee’s right to be accompanied at disciplinary and grievance meetings;
· decide how to proceed when an employee raises a grievance during the disciplinary procedure.
Who is it for?
The course is suitable for all those with responsibility for:
· operating disciplinary and grievance procedures, e.g. HR professionals, line mangers, or senior managers;
· reviewing and updating disciplinary and grievance policies and procedures;
· training individuals to carry out disciplinary and grievance hearings and appeals.
The course is designed to appeal to organisations of all sizes, whether in the private or public sectors.
Approach and Duration
The course will cover both legal issues and practical tips and will be delivered by Laura Hogg, a solicitor with Maclay Murray & Spens LLP.
Comprising two interactive sessions of approximately 45 minutes, and two break-out sessions, the course will run from 9.30am – 12.30pm. The first break-out session will involve review of documentation associated with the disciplinary and grievance processes, while the second will involve consideration of at least one case study designed to put the knowledge gained during the morning to practical use, reinforcing learning.
Who will deliver the course?
Laura Hogg is a solicitor specialising in employment law and is based in our Edinburgh office. She advises on a variety of employment issues such as absence management, discipline and grievance procedures and drafting employee handbooks and workplace policies. She is also involved in advising on contentious matters, including unfair and constructive dismissal and disputes arising out of TUPE transfers.
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Cost
£100 + VAT
Block bookings will attract a discount. Please contact us for further information
Date
25 January 2007
Contact
To book a place or for further information, please contact Diane Thomson
t: 01383 559000
f: 01383 559001
e:
masterclasses@theblcc.co.uk
Masterclasses Training Schedule