Acas have issued specific advice on disciplinary and grievance procedures during the coronavirus pandemic confirming that the law and Acas Code of Practice on disciplinary and grievance procedures still apply. This includes while social distancing and lockdown measures are in place. Therefore, the employer needs to decide if it would still be fair and reasonable to carry on with or start a disciplinary or grievance procedure while: (1) people are on temporary leave because of coronavirus (on ‘furlough’); (2) people are following social distancing and other public health guidelines, if they’re in the workplace; and (3) people are working from home, and it would have to be carried out remotely. The guidance then goes on to provide advice for each specific situation including what needs to be considered before deciding if a disciplinary or grievance procedure can still go ahead.
This provides summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. Where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out all of the facts, the legal arguments presented and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, we cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.
