HR Forum: HR Exchange - Conducting Fair & Effective Workplace Investigations and Disciplinaries

Date and Time

Thursday Feb 26, 2026
9:30 AM - 12:00 PM GMT

Location

Flourish Enterprises
St Catherine's House
Woodfield Park
DN4 8QP

Fees/Admission

Member - Free
Non Member - £25+VAT

Contact Information

Events Team
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HR Forum: HR Exchange - Conducting Fa...

Description

A poorly conducted investigation is often at the heart of failed unfair dismissal defences, leading to costly claims and reputational risks. Ensuring a fair, thorough, and legally compliant approach to both investigations and disciplinary procedures is critical for all employers.

In this session, our employment law and HR professionals will provide valuable insights into why investigations and disciplinaries are among your most powerful tools in employee relations. We will cover the best practices for conducting investigations and managing disciplinary processes effectively, ensuring they align with the Acas Code of Practice and employment law.

It will equip HR professionals and managers with the knowledge and practical skills required to conduct fair, thorough, and legally compliant workplace investigations and disciplinaries.
Key Topics Covered:

Understanding Employee Claims & Legal Risks

The main contractual and statutory claims an employee can bring against an employer. The risks of mishandling disciplinaries and investigations, including potential tribunal claims.

Investigating Misconduct & Performance Issues

Gross misconduct vs. minor misconduct: how to differentiate and handle cases appropriately. Investigating capability-related performance concerns fairly.

Carrying Out a Fair & Reasonable Investigation

The essential steps to conducting a robust workplace investigation. Gathering and assessing evidence effectively. Avoiding common pitfalls that lead to successful unfair dismissal claims.

Managing the Disciplinary Process Effectively

Following the correct disciplinary procedures, from issuing warnings to dismissal. How to conduct disciplinary hearings, including preparation, evidence presentation, and ensuring procedural fairness. Ensuring consistency in disciplinary outcomes.

Considering Discrimination & Reasonable Adjustments

How discrimination concerns can arise within disciplinary processes. Making reasonable adjustments for neurodivergent employees and those with disabilities.

Following the Acas Code of Practice

How to plan, structure, and conduct both investigations and disciplinaries in accordance with Acas guidelines. Ensuring procedural fairness to reduce the risk of legal challenges.
Who Should Attend?

✔ HR professionals responsible for handling grievances, disciplinaries, and investigations.
✔ Managers and business owners seeking to ensure fair and legally sound disciplinary processes.
✔ Anyone involved in employee relations who wants to enhance their understanding of employment law and best practice.

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