Basic shapes timeline

Complaints Process

Informal Stage

Written Complaint

Investigation

Outcome

Appeal

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Click on Info to find out more about each stage of the process.

• If you feel comfortable doing so, and you are reasonably confident that an informal approach is most appropriate, you can make the harasser aware that you find their behaviour inappropriate.
• You can also raise your concerns with a colleague that you trust, or with your line manager.

• If the matter is too serious, or the informal approach is unsuccessful, you can use the formal process.

• Where the informal approach fails, or if the issue is more serious, you should bring the matter to the attention of either; your Line Manager, a more senior manager, or a member of the HR team. Your concerns should set out in writing and can be done so via email, or via our Sexual Harassment Report Form.

• The complaint must include - the name of the alleged harasser, the nature, date & time of the alleged harassment, any witnesses and any action which may have been taken to prevent it.

• If you wish to appeal the decision, you must do so in writing within 5 days.
• The letter / email must set out your grounds for appealing.
• You will be invited to an appeal meeting with a more senior or different manager.
• The appeal decision will be final.

Once the investigation is completed, you'll receive a written outcome of the investigation. This will explain the reasons behind the decision. An outcome will normally be provided within 10 working days.

A thorough investigation into the allegations will be carried out and this will include:

• A meeting with you to find out more about the allegations.
• A meeting with the alleged harasser.
• Interviews with any witnesses.
• Review of any evidence e.g. emails, photos, CCTV etc.