If you have a problem at work you should try raising it informally with your employer first.

You may feel nervous about raising a problem, but employers are often open to resolving problems quickly without going through a formal procedure.

For some very serious problems, an informal chat might not be the best approach. You can raise a formal grievance to your employer.

Have an informal chat with your employer first

You should talk to someone you feel comfortable with where possible first, for example your line manager, another manager or someone in HR.

An informal chat with your manager or employer can range from a quiet word to a more structured meeting.

If you need more support, some organisations have trained members of staff you could speak to, for example:

• fair treatment ambassadors
• mental health first aiders
• health and wellbeing representatives

Your work might also have an employee assistance programme (EAP) you can use.

You can talk to a trade union representative, if you’re a member of a trade union.

Preparing for an informal meeting

If you and your employer or manager set up an informal meeting, it’s a good idea to:

• check the ACAS website for information about your problem and how it might be dealt with
• prepare what you want to say, for example how to explain what you’re unhappy about
• think about what you’d like your employer to do

You can ask someone to go with you, for example:

• someone you work with
• a trade union representative
• an official employed by a trade union

You can ask to bring someone else for extra assistance or support, for example a translator or care worker.

It’s usually up to your employer to agree if you can bring someone else to the meeting. If discrimination law applies your employer might have to allow someone to come with you to help remove any disadvantage.

For example, allowing a support or care worker to attend to provide support could be considered a reasonable adjustment if it would reduce any disadvantage a disabled person might have in raising their problem.

At the meeting

At the meeting you can:

• explain what the problem is and what you think should happen
• show your manager or employer evidence if necessary, for example your payslips and contract if you think your holiday pay was wrong
• take notes

Resolving the problem should be a two-way process. Your manager should allow you to explain the problem. You should also listen to what they have to say.

It might not always be possible to solve the problem in the way you’d like, but you can try to find a solution that works for both of you.

Raising the problem formally

If you cannot reach a solution to the problem, you can raise the issue formally. This is known as ‘raising a grievance’.

If raising a formal grievance does not resolve the problem, you might be able to make a claim to an employment tribunal.

• Uncategorized