How to handle appeals against grievance decisions

By Kalpana Murthy

Handling appeals against grievance decisions is a crucial part of a fair and transparent employee relations process and HR professionals play a central role in getting it right. When an employee challenges the outcome of a grievance, employers must ensure the appeal is managed impartially, consistently, and in full compliance with employment law. A poorly handled appeal can undermine trust, damage employee relations, and increase the risk of an employment tribunal claim.

For HR teams, the key is having a robust, well‑structured procedure that supports fairness and reinforces organisational credibility. This includes appointing an impartial decision maker, reviewing evidence objectively, communicating clearly with employees, and documenting each stage thoroughly.

Our guide provides HR professionals with practical, step-by-step advice on managing grievance appeals effectively helping you uphold procedural integrity, protect your organisation, and maintain confidence in your internal processes.

In this guide, learn about:

• The Acas code of practice on disciplinary and grievance procedures
• The employee’s appeal
• Format of the appeal hearing
• Arrangements for conducting an appeal hearing
• Failure to attend the appeal hearing
• The appeal hearing
• After the appeal hearing
• Record-keeping

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