Workplace Investigations

Disciplinary investigations

Investigations into allegations of harassment / bullying

Grievance investigations, etc

Understand the importance of the investigation in disciplinary and grievance procedures and the significance of conducting a fair and robust investigation

Be clear on the role and responsibility of the investigating manager and how to work effectively with others providing support, such as HR

Know the importance of planning and preparation in relation to the investigation

Be able to conduct an effective investigation including investigation interviews and taking statements

Be confident to make a recommendation based on the investigation and produce a high-quality report which will stand up at any subsequent hearing

Have an awareness of the legislation affecting how employers discipline their employees and respond to staff complaints, including those of bullying and harassment and the practical implications this has for investigations

Have built knowledge, skills and confidence through practical exercises addressing challenging issues and participant concerns

Workshop objectives and benefits from attending

Participants' experience and confidence in this area

Personal objectives

Establishing the range of investigations that participants are involved in

Participants' experiences of investigations

Existing knowledge, skills and experience

Best practice; ACAS guidance

Employment law risks and legal challengesAn overview of current legislation in this areaExploring what constitutes a fair and reasonable investigationLessons from case law

Policies and procedures

The purpose and outcomes of an investigation

Key responsibilities of the investigatory managers

Role and responsibilities of HR, etc

Deciding when and how to investigate; determining the best person to investigate

Understanding the scope / terms of reference of the investigation

Taking immediate action - suspension, temporary redeployment, etc

Planning the investigation: a checklist

Individual preparation: ensuring objectivity

How to conduct effective interviews and take witness statements

Gathering and evaluating evidence; dealing with conflicting information

Making a recommendation

Documenting the investigation: a checklist and template

Next steps

Six common mistakes and how to avoid them

A checklist of effective investigation skills

Participants' strengths and development areas

Skill building activities, eg, effective questioning and listening skills, how to remain objective
and avoid assumptions, etc.

Practical scenarios to assist participants build knowledge, skills and confidence in conducting workplace investigations:Developed individually for each client to ensure maximum learning and relevance (eg, include planning for and conducting an investigatory interview; reporting and presenting the recommendations; etc)Group work to consider approach in particularly challenging or sensitive 'what if ...?' scenarios (eg, what happens if a grievance is raised during the investigation, counter-allegations are made or there is evidence of a disability, etc)

Open forum - remaining challenges and 'what if' scenarios

Action planning - identifying how participants will transfer this learning into the workplace and what else they may need which will help them to do this effectively

Review and close