What is a Disciplinary Procedure?

An employer could start formal disciplinary action against an employee if they have concerns about their work, conduct or absence.

Before taking formal disciplinary action or dismissing an employee, an employer may try to raise the matter informally with the employee. However, they can go straight to their formal disciplinary or dismissal procedures.

A disciplinary procedure is a set way for an employer to deal with disciplinary issues. They should include a disciplinary hearing where the employee is given a chance to explain their side of the story.

There should also be a chance to appeal any disciplinary action an employer decides to take.

An employer should put their disciplinary procedure in writing, and make it easily available to all staff.

It should state what performance and behaviour might lead to disciplinary action and what action they might take against the employee.

It should also include the name of someone the employee can speak to if they do not agree with the employer’s disciplinary decision.

A disciplinary procedure should include the following steps:

• A letter setting out the issue.
• A meeting to discuss the issue.
• A disciplinary decision.
• A chance to appeal the decision.

An employer’s disciplinary procedures should follow the Acas code of practice.

Should you require any further information about how to take disciplinary action against an employee please contact us on 020 7903 6888.

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