EEF joins with Acas to brief business on new Dispute Resolution Code

In a seminar programme designed to prepare employers for the coming changes under the Employment Act 2008, companies will learn how they can use the new law to reduce employment costs and find out what a new Acas Code of Practice means for business.

The Code comes into force in April 2009 and will replace the current disciplinary, dismissal and grievance procedure with a more flexible system designed to resolve disputes and disagreements and remove the constant threat of employee litigation. Failing to understand how the Code works could prove expensive for employers, with employment tribunals having the power to increase compensation in successful claims by up to 25% for businesses that do not follow the Code’s recommendations.

EEF has organised one-day seminars at locations around the country between the end of October and early December. Companies attending will learn directly from experts at EEF and Acas how to resolve disputes and comply with the Code. The seminar will also show delegates how to take a strategic approach to resolving conflict and how to use mediation to resolve tough workplace disagreements.

Michael Gibbons, author of the report that led to the Employment Act 2008, will be the keynote speaker at three of the seminars. Other key note speakers include Ed Sweeney, the chair of Acas. Full details of the seminars and booking arrangements can be found on EEF’s website eef.org.uk.

Notes to Editors

The cost of attending the seminars is £195 for member, £250 for non-members.