Around 1,000 people a week have been using a new service designed to help employers and employees settle workplace disputes more quickly and efficiently.
From 6 May, it became compulsory for anyone thinking of making an employment tribunal claim to first contact the Government appointed conciliators, Acas, to discuss using its free Early Conciliation service, which was launched on 6 April.
Acas announced on 6 May that:
- around 1,000 people have contacted Acas about Early Conciliation each week since its launch;
- 98 per cent have decided to try the service;
- the first Early Conciliation case was settled within 24 hours; and
- 100 employers have contacted Acas to try Early Conciliation.
If Early Conciliation is unable to resolve the dispute then the claimant will still be able to lodge a tribunal claim.
Early Conciliation is built on the success of a similar optional service which Acas previously offered, known as “Pre Claim Conciliation”. The service dealt with around 20,000 cases a year and over three-quarters of these were resolved in a way that did not lead to a tribunal claim. “Pre Claim Conciliation” became “Early Conciliation” on 6 April 2014.
While Early Conciliation may help to resolve some employment disputes, others will require the advice of employment law specialists.
Palmers’ Employment Law team can assist in all types of employment dispute and will help to bring matters to a conclusion as quickly as possible. We can also provide expert advice on all aspects of employment law, including putting in place clear, compliant policies and procedures designed to help minimise the risk of employment disputes arising.
We also offer an HR package that includes guidance, policies, sample documents, such as employment contracts, and other information for employers.
For more information, please visit our website or contact Lara Murray.