1. ABOUT THIS PROCEDURE
1.1 Most grievances can be resolved quickly and informally through discussion with your line manager. If this does not resolve the problem you should initiate the formal procedure set out below.
1.2 This procedure applies to all employees regardless of length of service. It does not apply to workers, or to self-employed contractors.
1.3 This procedure does not form part of any contract. It may be amended at any time and we may depart from it depending on the circumstances of any case.
1.4 The Grievance procedures applicable to you at the date of your engagement contract can be found appended to that contract. If there is a conflict between the version attached to your contract and the following sections of this Schedule, the following sections of this Schedule shall have priority.
2. DEALING WITH GRIEVANCES INFORMALLY
If you have a grievance or complaint to do with your work or the people you work with you should, wherever possible, start by talking it over with your manager. You may be able to agree a solution informally between you,
3. FORMAL GRIEVANCE
If the matter is serious and/or you wish to raise the matter formally you should set out the grievance in writing to your manager. You should stick to the facts and avoid language that is insulting or abusive.
Where your grievance is against your manager and you feel unable to approach him or her you should talk to another manager or a director.
4. GRIEVANCE HEARING
Your manager will call you to a meeting, normally within five days, to discuss your grievance. You have the right to be accompanied by a colleague or trade union representative at this meeting if you make a reasonable request.
After the meeting the manager will give you a decision in writing, normally within 24 hours.
5. APPEAL
If you are unhappy with your manager’s decision and you wish to appeal you should let your manager know.
You will be invited to an appeal meeting, normally within five days, and your appeal will be heard by a more senior manager (or a director). You have the right to be accompanied by a colleague or trade union representative at this meeting if you make a reasonable request.
After the meeting the manager (or a director) will give you a decision, normally within 24 hours. The manager’s (or a director’s) decision is final.
