Many workplace issues can be resolved informally between employees and their line manager without the need for external conciliation. However, with the best will in the world, this isn’t always possible and  your employer should have a formal policy for dealing with more difficult matters.  You may find this in a staff handbook or on the company’s intranet.

If you are thinking of making a claim in the Employment Tribunal or have already got a claim underway, ACAS offers a conciliation service which is free of charge.  Taking part in conciliation is voluntary and if successful, it means that the issue can be resolved without the need to attend a Tribunal hearing.

The conciliator is impartial, cannot give legal advice and has no authority to seek evidence, call witnesses or make decisions or awards.

The process involves the conciliator discussing the issues with both you and your employer in order to help each of you reach a better understanding the other's position and point of view.

Both employers and employees can approach ACAS. However, every effort should first be made to resolve the issue within the workplace before conciliation may proceed. The service is also automatically offered when an employment tribunal claim is made.

Feel free to contact us for further information.