Raising a grievance

What a grievance is

A grievance is a concern, problem or complaint you raise with your employer. It could be about how you are treated, your pay or hours, bullying, discrimination, or changes to your job.

Many problems can be sorted out with an informal word first. If that does not work, or it is too serious, raise it formally in writing.

Step by step

1. Read your employer’s grievance policy if there is one. It is often in the staff handbook or on the intranet.
2. Write down what happened, when, who was involved and who saw it. Your diary entries are the record.
3. Write to your employer without unreasonable delay. Address it to your manager, or to someone more senior or HR if the complaint is about your manager.
4. Say clearly that you are raising a formal grievance, set out the facts, and say what you would like to happen.
5. Keep a copy and note the date you sent it.
6. Your employer should invite you to a meeting without unreasonable delay. You can bring a colleague or union rep.
7. After the meeting your employer should decide what to do and tell you in writing, including how to appeal.
8. If you disagree with the outcome, appeal in writing without unreasonable delay, saying why.

Why following the Code matters

The Acas Code of Practice sets out the basic steps for employers and employees. If a case reaches a tribunal and either side unreasonably failed to follow the Code, in many types of claim the tribunal can increase or reduce an award by up to 25% if it considers it just and equitable.

Read next

• Bringing someone to a meeting
• Appealing a decision
• ACAS early conciliation