EEF West Midlands launches mock tribunal simulation

This half day training event is designed to provide greater understanding and confidence to all those involved in handling a tribunal claim. “The tribunal system is now more demanding than ever – it’s lengthier, with more complex issues and the increasing involvement of professionals,” explains EEF West Midlands’ Employment Training Director Jenny Owens : “Employers facing a tribunal claim need to understand the process more thoroughly, and prepare more carefully, than ever before to achieve the best chance of success.

The mock tribunal event is conducted by EEF West Midlands’ employment law experts, who have daily experience of the tribunal process. Relevant documents and witness statements will be provided for attendees, and the proceedings will be frozen at various points to allow explanation of the process. The tribunal will cover such elements as ‘evidence in chief’ by the respondent and claimant witnesses; cross examination; summing up; and the delivery of the decision by the presiding panel. Attendees will also be able to have a go at making their own decision in the case.

The simulation replaces the EEF’s previous seminar based approach to the subject. “We are confident that the live element will provide an even more effective teaching process," explains Jenny Owens.

The training events are scheduled for 1 May and 28 October and the fee is £180.00 + VAT (EEF members £150.00 + VAT).

EEF West Midlands has an outstanding record of success in providing support for employment tribunals. National statistics show that, faced with a full hearing, 55% of employers successfully defended the claims against them; whereas EEF West Midlands advisers successfully defend 87% of cases on behalf of employers.

Other new training courses developed for 2008 include a combined single day seminar on 'Disciplining and Dismissing with Confidence', and a new seminar 'TUPE without tears’, covering the latest changes in regulations governing the transfer of businesses.

EEF West Midlands provides one of the most comprehensive portfolios of ER training available, all designed to bring the region’s companies up to date on the latest challenges. In addition to the new courses, there are half or full day workshops and seminars on all key operating issues, including employment law, diversity, harassment and bullying, age discrimination, recruitment, performance appraisal, maximising attendance, information and consultation, and negotiating.

The new 2008 training brochure can be seen on its website www.eef.org.uk/westmid, or obtained by calling 0121 456 2222 by emailing info@eef-westmids.org.uk.

EEF West Midlands is the largest employers’ association in the region, representing primarily engineering, manufacturing and technology-based organisations. Serving those member companies is a team of 160+ staff providing a wide range of experience and expertise.

EEF West Midlands supports and advises on all aspects of HR including employment law and employee relations (ER). The ER team handles hundreds of employment tribunals for members annually. Other areas of support include health, safety and the environment. With its training centres, EEF West Midlands can also help develop the workforce required for businesses to succeed. Regionally and nationally EEF represents the interests of those determining the economic and social conditions in which employers operate.