McPhail Watmore Associates Ltd
Discipline and Grievance Training
Handle difficult situations fairly and confidently
Handling a disciplinary or grievance matter is one of the situations managers dread most, and one where getting the process wrong can be costly. Our practical training gives managers the confidence to deal with these situations fairly, calmly and correctly, following a sound process that protects both your people and your organisation.
Why discipline and grievance training matters
Most managers will face a disciplinary issue or a grievance at some point, and most feel underprepared when they do. Handled badly, these situations escalate, damage working relationships, and expose the organisation to claims. Handled well, they can be resolved fairly, often informally, with trust intact.
The difference is process and confidence. A manager who understands the right steps is far better placed to deal with a difficult situation before it becomes a serious one. Getting this right is not about being tough, it is about being fair, consistent and defensible.
Process protects everyone
Many claims arise not from the decision itself but from a flawed process. Following a fair process, in line with the Acas Code of Practice, is the best protection against a claim.
What our training covers
This is a practical, scenario based course for anyone who manages people. It covers both discipline and grievance, and the point where informal resolution gives way to a formal process:
- The difference between a conduct issue, a capability issue and a grievance
- Handling concerns informally and early, before they escalate
- Following a fair process, in line with the Acas Code of Practice
- Gathering facts, conducting investigations, and keeping proper records
- Holding a fair and structured hearing, and the right to be accompanied
- Reaching reasonable, consistent and proportionate decisions, and managing appeals
- Avoiding the common mistakes that lead to unfair dismissal and other claims
What our clients say
“
I had a great day yesterday, and learnt so much!
I will be meeting with our managers all next week, and I am sure that their learning will influence how we move forward.
Thank you for your energy and commitment.
Chief Officer
Age UK Torbay
“
The training on the day both myself and HR Director, were pleased to find it engaging and practical, with clear and relatable hospitality specific examples aligned to the law.
Assistant Learning & Development Manager, People and Culture
Four Seasons
“
Experience was really good – workshop activities made me think of things that would impact me – all topics were enjoyable
Employee
Redbridge Council
Trusted by organisations across
Higher Education•
NHS•
Government•
Finance•
Legal•
Housing•
Charity
Who this training is for
This training is essential for line managers, team leaders, and HR professionals who may need to handle disciplinary matters or grievances. It suits both new managers who want to build confidence and experienced managers who want to sharpen their approach and stay up to date.
We work with organisations across the UK in the public and private sector, including higher and further education, the NHS, national and local government, finance, legal and professional services, housing and the charity sector.
Our approach and credentials
All of our training is bespoke. We take time to understand your organisation, your sector and the decisions your people actually make, then build the session around examples they will recognise. Sessions can be delivered in person or online.
Our consultants are experienced practitioners drawn from the public and private sector. McPhail Watmore Associates was established in 2000, and our founder Fiona McPhail is a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD with 30 years' experience in HR and equality, diversity and inclusion. You can read more about our team on our About page.
Established 2000
Over 25 years of training and consultancy
Chartered FCIPD
Founder led, 30 years' experience
Charter assessors
Investors in Diversity, Disability Confident Level 3
Seven consultants
Public and private sector practitioners
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a disciplinary and a grievance?
A disciplinary process is how an employer addresses concerns about an employee's conduct or capability. A grievance is a concern, problem or complaint that an employee raises. Our training covers both, and how to handle each fairly, since the same manager often needs to deal with both sides.
What is the Acas Code of Practice?
The Acas Code of Practice on disciplinary and grievance procedures sets out the principles employers and employees should follow to handle these situations fairly. Employment tribunals take it into account, and an unreasonable failure to follow it can affect the outcome and any award. Our training is built around following a fair process consistent with the Code.
How can managers avoid unfair dismissal claims?
By following a fair and consistent process, gathering the facts, giving the employee a chance to respond, and reaching a reasonable decision. Many claims arise not from the decision itself but from a flawed process. Our training focuses on getting the process right, which is the best protection against a claim.
Is the training for managers or all staff?
Both. Our awareness session is designed for everyone and builds a more understanding, open culture. The manager session goes deeper into legal duties, adjustments and neuroinclusive practice, for those who support or recruit staff directly. Many organisations commission both.
Talk to our team
Whether you want to book a session or discuss what would work best for your organisation, get in touch to discuss your training needs.