Dealing with problems at work

Addressing a complaint or problem at work can be daunting for any employee. This can be particularly true for migrant workers whose presence in the UK is dependent on their relationship with their sponsor/employer. If you are concerned about raising a complaint at work, contact your Trade Union or Law Centre NI for advice before doing so.

What should I do if I have a complaint about work?

If you have a complaint about your treatment at work, you can raise it with your employer by following its grievance procedure. A copy of the grievance procedure should be made available to you on request.

If your workplace does not have a grievance procedure, the Labour Relations Agency Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures provides minimum standards on how your employer should deal with grievances and disciplinary procedures at work.

Generally, the first step in raising a complaint about work is to do so verbally and informally with your line manager or supervisor. If your complaint is not resolved, you can submit a formal written grievance.

When you submit a formal grievance, your employer should arrange a meeting with you to discuss it. You are allowed to have a Trade Union or fellow employee accompany you to the meeting. If, after the meeting, your grievance is still not resolved, seek advice from your Trade Union or Law Centre NI.

Making a claim in the Employment Tribunal

Sometimes problems at work can lead to legal claims. This might be because you have been dismissed from your employment or been forced to resign because of your employer’s conduct. You might also be able to claim unfair dismissal if you are not given the work you were promised when you arrive in the UK. 

If you have not been paid properly or at all, you could have a claim for unauthorised deduction of wages. You can also claim against your employer if you have suffered discrimination.

There are strict time limits for submitting a claim to the Employment Tribunal, so you should seek timely advice from your Trade Union or Law Centre NI.

Further information on making a claim to the Employment Tribunal can be found in LCNI Employment Tribunal Guide (lawcentreni.org), which is available in a number of languages