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Disciplinary action and investigations

Disciplinary action and workplace investigations are among the highest‑risk areas of UK employment law. Employers must act promptly and fairly, following procedures that stand up to scrutiny when decisions are challenged.

Poor investigations, procedural errors or inconsistent outcomes increase exposure to unfair dismissal claims, damaged employee trust and tribunal risk. Clear evidence, proportionate decisions and a structured process are essential.

This page brings together guidance and practical resources on disciplinary action and investigations—including processes, hearings and appeals—to help employers reduce risk and reach defensible decisions.

Browse our full library of disciplinary action and investigations resources
FAQ

If an employee is dismissed in the last week of their first six months with a payment in lieu of notice, will they still qualify to claim unfair dismissal?

From 1 January 2027, statutory notice can bring an employee dismissed with PILON within the six-month unfair dismissal …
FAQ

Does an employer have to give a written statement of reasons for dismissal?

Understand when employers must provide employees with a written statement explaining the reasons for dismissal and the key …
Webinars

Grievances – how should HR deal with the aftermath?

The growing volume of AI-enabled grievances poses a challenge for resource-stretched HR – but at least organisations will …
Commentary and Insights

Dealing with employee grievances in an AI-enabled world

Discover how HR teams can approach employee grievances in an AI-driven workplace, including challenges, opportunities, and key considerations.
Tools & templates

Checklist for having initial settlement discussion during performance improvement procedure

This checklist supports employers in preparing for and holding an initial settlement discussion with an employee who is …
Webinars

Employment Rights Act 2025: Unfair dismissal changes

Understand how the Employment Rights Act 2025 changes unfair dismissal rules with expert HR guidance and practical insights.
Tools & templates

Letter dismissing employee for misconduct

Learn how to use a dismissal letter to confirm termination for misconduct, explain the reasons for dismissal, and …
Tools & templates

Letter inviting employee suspected of misconduct to investigatory meeting

Inviting an employee to an investigatory meeting is an important early step in a fair misconduct investigation and …
Tools & templates

Letter informing employee suspected of misconduct that an investigation will be taking place

Where misconduct is suspected, employers must carry out a fair and reasonable investigation before any disciplinary decision is …

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