The compulsory statutory dismissal, discipline and grievance procedures came into force in 2004. Despite this, employers continue to fail to comply with these regulations and consequently find themselves facing an automatically unfair dismissal and an uplift of up to 50% in compensation awards irrespective of the underlying merits of any defence. This is a fast changing area of law and so the course will also examine proposed changes to these procedures which are likely to come into force late in 2008.

· Introduction to dispute resolution

· The statutory dismissal and disciplinary procedure

o Disciplinary procedures

o Other types of dismissal

o Fair processes

o Dealing with appeals

o Problem areas

· The standard and modified grievance procedures explained

o Grievance procedures

o The modified procedure

o What amounts to a grievance?

o Problem areas

· What are the pitfalls with these procedures?

· The risks to the business if you fail to comply

· Case study examples and role play

• Understanding of the basic requirements for handling disciplinary and grievance procedures
• Knowledge of best practice to place your organisation in a strong position to defend claims

An essential in-house programme for all Directors, Managers, Supervisors and team leaders responsible for handling dismissal, discipline and grievance