What Is a Grievance at Work?
A grievance is a formal complaint raised by an employee about issues such as:
- Bullying or harassment
- Unfair treatment
- Contract changes
- Pay disputes
- Unsafe working conditions
- Discrimination
- Breakdown in working relationships
- Management behaviour
A grievance can be informal or formal, but employers must follow a fair process based on the ACAS Code of Practice.
Your Rights When Raising a Grievance
1. Raise a Grievance Without Fear of Retaliation
It is unlawful for an employer to punish you for raising concerns.
2. A Fair and Timely Investigation
Your employer must:
- Investigate impartially
- Gather evidence
- Interview relevant parties
- Keep you informed
3. Be Accompanied to Meetings
You can bring:
- A trade union representative
- A workplace colleague
4. Receive a Written Outcome
The decision must be clear, reasoned, and based on evidence.
5. Appeal the Decision
If the outcome is unfair or incomplete, you can appeal.
When You Should Raise a Grievance
You should consider raising a grievance if:
- Informal conversations haven't resolved the issue
- You're being treated unfairly
- You're experiencing bullying or harassment
- You believe discrimination has occurred
- Your employer is breaching your contract
- You're being pressured into unreasonable changes
- Your health or wellbeing is being affected
The Stages of a Fair Grievance Procedure
Stage 1 — Informal Resolution (Optional)
You can try speaking to your manager first. If this fails or feels unsafe, move straight to a formal grievance.
Stage 2 — Submitting a Formal Grievance
Your written grievance should include:
- What happened
- Dates, times, and witnesses
- How it has affected you
- What outcome you are seeking
Stage 3 — Grievance Meeting
Your employer must invite you to a meeting to discuss your concerns. You can be accompanied.
Stage 4 — Investigation
This may include:
- Reviewing documents
- Interviewing witnesses
- Speaking to managers
- Examining policies
Stage 5 — Outcome
You must receive a written decision explaining:
- Findings
- Evidence considered
- Any actions to be taken
Stage 6 — Appeal
If you disagree with the outcome, you can appeal to a more senior manager.
What Makes a Grievance Process Unfair?
A grievance may be unfair if your employer:
- Ignores evidence
- Fails to investigate properly
- Delays the process excessively
- Allows bias or conflict of interest
- Retaliates against you
- Dismisses your concerns without explanation
Common Types of Grievances
- Bullying or harassment
- Discrimination (race, sex, disability, age, etc.)
- Pay disputes
- Unsafe working conditions
- Contract changes
- Management behaviour
- Victimisation
- Workload or stress concerns
How to Write a Strong Grievance Letter
A strong grievance letter should:
- Be factual, not emotional
- Include dates, times, and evidence
- Explain the impact on you
- Reference relevant policies
- State the outcome you want