Employment Act 2008

The Employment Act 2008 will come into force on 6th April 2009. Its biggest impact will be in repealing the compulsory statutory dispute, grievance and dismissal resolution procedures.

These procedures were initially introduced (in 2004) to help settle workplace disputes wherever possible, without going to a tribunal. However, these rules have been arguably impractical and have led to difficulties. These rules will now be replaced with a new (non-compulsory) ACAS Code of Practice.

The new Code provides basic practical guidance and sets out principles for handling disciplinary and grievance situations. Employers are not obliged to follow the Code, but tribunals can take non-compliance into account when making decisions.

The Code will become the key source of guidance for tribunals in determining the fairness of any grievance or disciplinary process.

For the full article please click here.