Employment Investigations

Employers are now facing increased incidents of reported grievances, disciplinary matters and allegations of bullying, harassment, discrimination and general misconduct in the working environment.

All of these problems have to be dealt with, but because of the complex nature of the matters reported, most employers do not have the expertise or facilities to conduct a detailed in-house investigation.

OWL’s investigations have the experience and facilities to relieve the pressure from the employer and conduct the investigation on their behalf and so provide a comprehensive report. The investigation can be tailored to the requirements of the stakeholder with the company providing over sixty years of combined experience.

The Investigation

From an initial strategy meeting, the terms of reference will be set out determining any fast track actions that may need to be implemented together with costing and scope of the investigators remit. This will include time scales, the identification of key issues and recognition of company policies and procedures. Our team includes an experienced H.R. consultant and the investigation will link with regard to these areas.

The Investigator will gather all relevant information in a confidential and sensitive manner. This information will then be reviewed and evaluated to identify the contribution to the investigation. All investigators are trained professional interviewers. The culmination of the process is the detailed report produced by the investigator outlining the key findings and advice, regarding future employer action.

ACAS new code of Practice states:

Investigations: Wherever possible, investigations whether for grievances or disciplinary purpose should be carried out by someone who will not be involved in the meeting or appeal. A file of evidence should be given to the person conducting the meeting. For small businesses this might be tricky; but using an external 3rd party to conduct the investigation would undoubtedly be favored by the tribunals as an unbiased account of what has happened.

          Complaints: Internal or External. / Miscellaneous Investigations. OWLS investigations have the expertise to apply the    above described methods to any type of investigation whether requested from an individual or a large organistaion.

For further information or advice on how OWLS could assist you, please contact Mr Chris Johnston.