If your employer wants to fire you he now has to follow a new grievance procedure which amends the old “3 step” system.

If there is a disciplinary issue, the law now encourages employer to try to resolve the issue informally through discussion whilst carrying out prompt and thorough enquiries. It’s a softer start to a procedure which, it is hoped, will reduce confrontation and the escalation of difficult situations.

Only if the soft start fails or in very serious disciplinary situations does the previous 3 stage procedure kick in.’

The first stage of the formal procedure is for the employer to write to the employee detailing the disciplinary issue. The company must then arrange a formal meeting. Then the employee has the opportunity to appeal against the boss’s decision if the employee is unhappy with their decision.

It is hoped that the new start to the procedure will prove to be more flexible and will be able to resolve differences with a quiet word rather than always imposing the full process.

We agree. Sense prevails!