ACAS Reviewing Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures
Important update for employers
The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) is currently reviewing its Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures. The ACAS Code provides employers and employees with practical guidance on handling disciplinary and grievance matters fairly and consistently. It is particularly important for employers, as employment tribunals can take the Code into account when considering relevant cases.
What does this mean for employers?
The review is an opportunity to consider whether the existing guidance remains appropriate for today’s workplace and whether any changes are needed to reflect current employment practices. While the review is ongoing, employers should continue to follow the existing ACAS Code and ensure that their disciplinary and grievance procedures are:
Clear and accessible to employees.
Applied consistently and fairly.
Supported by appropriate investigation and evidence gathering.
Clear about the employee’s right to be accompanied where applicable.
Structured to give employees a reasonable opportunity to respond to concerns or allegations.
Subject to an appropriate appeal process.
Why should you be paying attention?
Any changes to the ACAS Code could have practical implications for employers, particularly around how disciplinary and grievance processes are managed and documented. It is therefore a good time for businesses to review their current procedures and consider whether they remain fit for purpose.
We recommend that employers do not wait until any revised guidance comes into effect before reviewing their existing processes. A proactive review can help identify potential gaps and ensure that managers are familiar with the correct procedures.
If you would like to discuss a review and update of your policies and procedures, require guidance or assistance with a situation please do let us know on info@sos-hr.co.uk or call 01473 276 170.