Handling Disciplinary Hearings for Managers

Managing disciplinary issues has never been more critical for UK employers. With toxic working relationships increasingly escalating into employment tribunal claims, whistleblowing cases and complex DSARs, many organisations are facing significant risk simply because managers are unsure how to apply fair, consistent and lawful processes.

Now, the landscape is shifting again. Under the Employment Rights Bill, the qualifying period for unfair dismissal is set to reduce from 2 years to just 6 months—meaning even more employees will gain protection sooner, and managers will need to demonstrate that a fair process was followed from the very beginning.

Our course, Handling Disciplinary Hearings for Managers, has been designed to give leaders the clarity and confidence they need to conduct disciplinary matters lawfully, consistently and professionally. 

With increased access to legal rights, and a rise in complex claims linked to workplace conflict, managers must understand their responsibilities and the consequences of missteps.

This course equips managers with the skills to handle disciplinary issues confidently, fairly and defensibly, protecting both the organisation and its people.

• The core principles of UK disciplinary law, the ACAS Code and relevant case law

• How to recognise when behaviour becomes a disciplinary issue

• Key roles in the process – including the manager, HR, witnesses, note takers and the employee companion

• Why consistency of process and decision-making is vital to avoiding tribunal risk

• How to manage difficult situations calmly and fairly

• What constitutes a reasonable investigation and a fair hearing

• Clear expectations for documentation, outcomes and appeals