How do you deal with problems at work?
Every employer should have a procedure to deal with employees’ problems and complaints. In many workplaces, it is called 'the grievance procedure'. This should be based on the ACAS Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures.
If you have a problem at work, it’s important to follow your work's grievance procedure from the beginning, if it is possible. If your problem is not dealt with properly, you might decide to take it to an employment tribunal. If you haven't followed your work's procedure, any compensation you are awarded by the tribunal might be reduced.
You can't use these procedures to complain about being made redundant, or about a fixed-term contract not being renewed. If you are in this position, you should speak to an adviser. See Further help on the menu on the right.
What happens?
1. You have a problem or complaint in relation to your work.
This is often called a grievance.
2. Follow your work’s procedure (usually called the grievance procedure).
Every employer should have a procedure for dealing with your problems and complaints. If your employer doesn't have one, follow the process outlined in this guide as far as you can.
3. If your work fails to sort out the problem, you might be able to take the issue to an employment tribunal.
An employment tribunal is a less formal court which deals with disputes about employment. You must take a case to the tribunal within 3 months of the event you are complaining about. You can take an issue to the employment tribunal without using your work's procedure but beware! - any compensation you win might be reduced. If you weren't able to use your work's procedure because they don't have one, any compensation you win might be increased.
