Handling Workplace Grievances - A Practical Guide for HR Advisers & Managers

Introduction

Grievances are an inevitable part of the workplace but, if mishandled, they can escalate into costly legal disputes, low staff morale, reputational damage, and organisational inefficiency.

This virtual classroom seminar is designed to equip HR professionals and managers with a structured, legally sound, and empathetic approach to managing employee complaints. As the law evolves and employee expectations increase around fairness, psychological safety, and mental health, it is more vital than ever to ensure grievances are addressed with diligence, procedural fairness, and care.

We will cover recent developments in case law (including issues such as harassment, whistleblowing, and constructive dismissal), clarify the employer's legal obligations, and offer practical frameworks to resolve matters effectively at the earliest opportunity.

Whether you're looking to improve existing procedures, train new managers, or reduce litigation risk, this session will offer actionable insights and a robust toolkit.

What You Will Learn

This live and interactive course will cover the following:

• Understand what constitutes a grievance under UK employment law and internal policies
• Identify the legal and reputational risks of mishandling grievances
• Distinguish between informal and formal grievance procedures
• Apply the ACAS Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures
• Follow a step-by-step guide from complaint to resolution, including:
• Acknowledging the grievance
• Investigating fairly and proportionately
• Conducting grievance meetings
• Making findings and delivering outcomes
• Managing appeals
• Handle sensitive and complex grievances (e.g., bullying, discrimination, whistleblowing) with confidence
• Recognise common pitfalls and how to avoid procedural errors
• Manage grievances in hybrid/remote working environments
• Maintain appropriate documentation and ensure GDPR-compliant recordkeeping
• Navigate the intersection of grievances with ongoing performance management or disciplinary processes
• Appreciate the importance of tone, empathy, and communication throughout the process
• Protect against constructive dismissal and tribunal claims

Recording of live sessions: Soon after the Learn Live session has taken place you will be able to go back and access the recording - should you wish to revisit the material discussed.