Raising Grievance at Workplace
With Us, Stay Sharper!
A grievance is a formal complaint you raise with your employer about something happening at work, this could be unfair treatment, bullying, discrimination, a breach of your contract, or a dispute over pay or duties. Raising a grievance puts your concerns on record and requires your employer to respond through a defined process.
The usual first step is to put your grievance in writing, setting out what happened, when, who was involved, and what outcome you are hoping for. Your employer should then invite you to a grievance meeting, where you have the right to be accompanied by a colleague or trade union representative, before responding formally in writing.
If you disagree with the outcome, you normally have the right to appeal. Raising a grievance can also be an important step before bringing a wider claim, such as constructive dismissal, so it is worth getting the process right from the outset.
Talk to an employment-law consultant
Free, no-obligation initial consultation, we'll explain your options clearly.
How we can help with raising grievance at workplace
- Writing a clear and effective grievance letter
- What to expect at a grievance meeting
- Your right to be accompanied
- Appealing a grievance outcome
- Whistleblowing protections
- Protection from victimisation for raising concerns
Other advice for employees
Raising Grievance at Workplace, frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about this topic.
A grievance is a formal complaint about a problem at work, such as unfair treatment, bullying, harassment, discrimination or a breach of your contract, that you raise with your employer in writing so it can be investigated and responded to formally.
Put your concerns in writing, covering what happened, when, who was involved and the outcome you want. Your employer's grievance policy or staff handbook should explain who to send it to and what happens next.
Yes. You have a statutory right to be accompanied by a colleague or a trade union representative at a formal grievance meeting.
You normally have the right to appeal the decision. Your employer's grievance procedure should set out how and when to appeal, we can help you prepare a strong appeal letter.
You are protected from being treated unfairly (victimised) for raising a grievance in good faith. If you believe you have been penalised for doing so, this may give rise to a separate legal claim, and we can advise you on your options.
Talk to us for legal advice tailored to your needs
Call now or book a free initial consultation, you will never be disappointed.