Employers must take grievances seriously. The ACAS Code requires a written response after investigation. Failure to provide an appeal right can increase any tribunal award by 25%.

• Grievance should be acknowledged within 5 days
• Investigation must be fair and impartial
• Employee has right to be accompanied at grievance meeting
• Both uphold and dismiss outcomes must be explained
• Right of appeal is mandatory under ACAS Code

Legal reference: Employment Rights Act 1996 s.13A; ACAS Code of Practice 1