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Key concepts

Grievance

Plain-English definitions for England and Wales. General information, not legal advice. Laws and figures change - always check the current position on GOV.UK.

Grievance A formal complaint raised with your employer about a workplace problem. Following the ACAS Code of Practice, you normally put it in writing, the employer holds a meeting, and you have a right to appeal the outcome.

Related terms

Disciplinary hearing
A meeting your employer holds to consider allegations about your conduct or performance before deciding on any action such as a warning or dismissal. The ACAS Code of Practice gives you rights including notice of the allegations, the right to be accompanied, and a right of appeal.
ACAS uplift
An adjustment of up to 25% that a tribunal can make to certain awards where an employer (or employee) has unreasonably failed to follow the ACAS Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures.
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