Conducting investigations

Level – Developing - for building skills and knowledge in a topic. Aimed at people with some experience or existing knowledge

Overview click to expand contents

When there is a problem at work, an investigation should be carried out as soon as possible. This can relate to grievances as well as potential disciplinary issues such as bullying, poor conduct, attendance or performance.

Carrying out a fair and impartial investigation will help managers to understand all the facts and help them reach an informed decision. It can also:

promote good working relationships
help organisations comply with the Acas code of practice on discipline and grievance
build trust with all employees

This training will help you conduct investigations confidently, in line with good practice and legal requirements.

Who is this best suited to? click to expand contents

Anyone who may be involved in carrying out investigations.

This training would be especially suitable for:

line managers
team leaders
HR professionals
small business owners

Attendees would benefit from a good understanding of the Acas Code of Practice overall, as this event focuses on the investigation stage only. We recommend reading the Acas Code of Practice in advance of attending.

What will I learn from this training? click to expand contents

the investigation process
effective questioning and communication skills
legal concepts, including ‘reasonable belief’ and ‘the band of reasonable responses’
what to do when people want to remain anonymous
how to write an investigation report
when to suspend someone

By the end of this training, attendees will be able to:

describe the 6 stages of the investigation process
explain what level of proof is needed by law in an investigation
identify the main skills an investigator should have
produce an investigation report and make a recommendation about next steps

Key course information click to expand contents

Trainer led – online via Zoom

Duration - 6 hours/full day

The training session will include:

case studies
interactive action maze
polls/quizzes
group discussion

Attendees will also receive:

a digital certificate
a handout containing useful links
a copy of the PowerPoint slides

We aim to make our training accessible for everyone. If you have specific accessibility needs, please let us know on your sign-up form.

Closed captions can be turned on for all our sessions run on Zoom

Run this programme for your organisation click to expand contents

Does your organisation need more than training? click to expand contents

Our specialists can diagnose issues in your workplace and tailor practical solutions to address the challenges faced by you and your staff. To find out more, contact our Customer Services Team on 0300 123 1150 or complete our online enquiry form.

We also offer free e-learning on a wide range of employment relations topics. It's a great way to develop, enhance and refresh knowledge, providing an opportunity to work through theory, explore case studies and answer interactive questions.

Venue:Digital via Zoom

Date:30/07/2025

Time:09:30 - 16:00

Price: £270.00 per person Please note our training events are VAT exempt

* Max of 4 delegates per organisation. Please call Acas on 0300 123 1150 or email events@acas.org.uk if number exceed this or for more details about the training session.