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Grievance letter

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If an employee wishes to raise a grievance about a workplace issue, they can submit this model letter template to you.

Reading time
How long to understand and implement this letter?
5 mins
Word count
How many words in this letter?
85
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What is a Grievance letter?

A grievance letter is a formal letter written by an employee to their employer to raise a concern or complaint about a workplace issue, such as discrimination, harassment, bullying, unfair treatment, or any other violation of their rights. The purpose of a grievance letter is to inform the employer of the issue and to request a resolution or action to address the problem.

The letter should be written in a clear and concise manner, outlining the specific details of the issue or incident, including dates, times, and any witnesses present. The letter should also state the desired outcome or resolution, such as an apology, compensation, or a change in policy or procedure.

It is important to note that a grievance letter should only be used as a last resort after attempting to resolve the issue through informal means, such as speaking with a supervisor or human resources representative. Additionally, the letter should be written in a professional and respectful tone, avoiding any inflammatory or accusatory language.

Issued by who, to whom
Who should issue this letter, and to whom?
The Employee to the Employer (you)
Applicable legal jurisdictions
In which jurisdictions can this letter be used?
Great Britain & NI (United Kingdom), Worldwide

What legislation and best practice guidelines have been taken into account in the development of this template?

United Kingdom

Below are some of the key laws and regulations that employers should take into account:

  1. The ACAS Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures: Employers are encouraged to follow this code, which sets out best practice guidance on how to handle grievances.
  2. The Equality Act 2010: Employers must not discriminate against an employee who has submitted a grievance letter. This includes discrimination based on age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.
  3. The Employment Rights Act 1996: Employees have a statutory right to raise a grievance with their employer. Employers must investigate the grievance and take appropriate action.
  4. The Data Protection Act 2018: Employers must ensure that any personal data collected during the grievance process is processed in accordance with data protection regulations.
  5. The Human Rights Act 1998: Employees have the right to a fair and impartial investigation into their grievance.

Employers should also ensure that they have a clear grievance procedure in place, which outlines the steps that will be taken to investigate and resolve grievances. This procedure should be communicated to all employees, and employers should ensure that they follow it consistently and fairly.


Other territories

Consult your jurisdiction's employment legislation or labor laws to ensure compliance with the template. Review the language for local precision.

Grievance [Delete this line]

[Company name]

[Sender address]

 

[date]

[Recipient name]

[Recipient address]

 

Dear [Recipient first name],

 

Grievance

I am writing to tell you that I wish to raise a grievance.

This action is being considered with regard to the following circumstances:

  • [Describe concisely and clearly with facts and dates, etc.]

I am entitled to a hearing to discuss this matter; also I am entitled, if I wish, to be accompanied by another work colleague or my trade union representative.

Please reply within 14 days of the date of this letter to confirm the proposed date for the hearing.

Yours [faithfully | sincerely],

 

 

[Sender name]

[Sender job title]

[Sender telephone]
[Sender email]

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Grievance letter template
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Our Grievance Investigation Confirmation Letter ensures a transparent process, confirming receipt and initiation of grievance investigation promptly.

grievance letter