Appeal- Support

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How can you support someone through the Appeal process?

Reassurance

Going through the appeal process may cause worry and stress, consider the following to support the individual:

Read the room – if they appear anxious, emotional, or distressed, offer them additional breaks during the meeting, and take your time when asking questions.

Put them at ease, re-assure them that you are approaching the appeal hearing with an open mind, you’re impartial, and will take everything that they say into consideration before making your decision.

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Evidence

At the beginning of the hearing check that they have received the invite letter and the evidence and they understand the allegation(s), answer any questions that they may have.

Timely

Organise the hearing within good time after the investigation has been concluded (within ten days) ensuring that you give the individual at least 48 hours’ notice.

Awareness

Four ways to support the individual

It is not uncommon for an individual to require reasonable adjustments to support them through the process; they may have sensory needs, struggle with a mental health condition or have a disability. If they raise this, ask them if they require any adjustments through the process. Here are some examples:

Reasonable Adjustments

Delivering the outcome verbally as well as in written format

Extra adjournments being planned throughout the meeting.

The invite letter and evidence being printed off and sent to them via post.

A family member attending the Appeal hearing with them.