- Managing Overlapping Issues (Grievance vs Disciplinary vs Protected Disclosure) - De-escalation Techniques

Handling grievances, protected disclosures, workplace disputes and disciplinary matters incorrectly can open organisations to significant legal, financial and reputational damage. This course will equip managers and HR professionals with the knowledge, confidence and tools to manage these sensitive issues fairly, consistently and in line with Irish employment law and WRC Codes of Practice. Through real-life case studies and practical guidance, participants will learn how to resolve workplace disputes early, protect the organisation and foster a respectful and compliant workplace culture.

All attendees will receive a full course pack to refer to and will have the benefit of learning from a trainer with a wealth of experience in this area.

Course Content

Overview – Key Irish Legislation and Codes of Practice

• Workplace Relations Act 2015
• WRC Code of Practice on Grievance & Disciplinary Procedures
• Protected Disclosures Act 2015 (as amended 2022)

Grievances Procedures - How to de-escalate a grievance before it becomes a complaint

• Understanding Grievances – What is a grievance?
• Informal Vs formal Grievances
• Common workplace grievance scenarios
• Grievances relating to PIPs – Performance Improvement Plans
• Best practice in Handling Grievances - Step-by-step process
• Roles and Responsibilities of managers and HR
• Natural Justice and fair procedures

Breakout session – Managing a grievance complaint effectively – Spotting the difference between a grievances v bullying and harassment complaints

Protected Disclosures (Whistleblowing)

• What constitutes a protected disclosure under Irish Law - Who is protected
• Internal vs external reporting channels
• Employer Obligations
• Receiving and responding to disclosures
• Confidentiality and anonymity
• Protection from Penalisation - Can the person making the protected disclosure have disciplinary procedures taken against them?
• Record-keeping and reporting requirements

Workplace Dispute Resolution

• Why disputes escalate
• Role of managers in early resolution
• Difficult conversations and communication skills
• Formal Resolution Options - de-escalation techniques.
• Role of HR and Third parties
• WRC Mediation services

Breakout session – Resolving a workplace conflict scenario

Disciplinary Procedures & Investigations

• The process – minor vs gross misconduct / suspension: when and how
• Disciplinary hearings
• Sanctions and proportionality
• Right of appeal
• Common Pitfalls – Procedural errors
• Documentation and record keeping

Who Should Attend?

This course will be highly beneficial to anyone with responsibility for managing people or handling workplace issues. It’s particularly relevant for line managers, supervisors, team leaders, HR Professionals, Senior managers, operations, business owners, directors and anyone involved in managing grievances, protected disclosures, workplace disputes or disciplinary processes. It would also be beneficial for those who may be required to investigate a complaint or participate in hearings or appeals.

Certification

On completion of this one-day training course, you will receive your Certificate of Attendance. Please note certificates are issued at the close of the training course to participants on completion of the course.

This course may qualify for CPD points. Please check directly with your association or awarding body to see how many points they will award.

Cost

An ‘Early Bird’ discounted rate of €545 is currently available. This training course normal rate is €645. Places are limited and are allocated on a first come first served basis. PLEASE NOTE THE EARLY BIRD RATE CLOSES 3 WEEKS PRIOR TO COURSE DATE. The course cost includes all course documentation and Certificate of Attendance.