Steps to resolve

Whether it’s the employer who needs to raise an issue with an employee, or an employee who would like to make a complaint to their employer, it is useful to consider in the first instance whether an informal approach could be taken to resolve the matter.

Warnings in the workplace should be part of a disciplinary process and they should be designed to allow employees to change a particular behaviour within a given timeframe. They should be given as quickly as possible after the behaviour occurs. Any sanctions should be proportionate to the alleged offence.

Disciplinary procedures are used for dealing with problems with employees' conduct or their performance, which could lead to warnings or dismissal.

Grievances are concerns, problems or complaints that employees may raise with their employers.

An employer may decide to suspend an employee temporarily from work if they are involved in a disciplinary situation, or for maternity or medical reasons.  Usually an employee who is suspended is entitled to their normal pay during their suspension.