Hounslow Council To Put More Robust Disciplinary Measures In Place

Council strengthening action on cases of misconduct

Hounslow Council is to change its policy for management action to be taken against staff whose conduct falls below the standards expected by the authority, including dismissal.

The Council says these recommendations are being made because of a need for a more robust disciplinary policy and dismissal appeal process; one that addresses
cases of misconduct in a timely and objective manner.

A cabinet member decision will be made this week, implementing new policies which take into account the ACAS code of Practice on discipline, and comply with employment legislation, ensuring due governance.

A revised disciplinary policy and a new policy for
dealing with dismissal appeals will be put in motiion.

If adopted, the key financial consideration is the need for ongoing refresher training for investigators and those hearing cases of misconduct and appeals within the organisation. It is also envisaged that in future outside managers will be brought in to hear cases.

A review of recent cases found that impartiality of disciplinary investigations needed to be more robust and there were difficulties in managers having to investigate and/or determine sanctions for their direct reports. This has meant that the decisions taken were open to influences of bias, which could be to the benefit or detriment of the employee and led to subjective conclusions

An independent investigation process will place the council in a stronger position to defend potential employment tribunal cases, says the Council.

The report did not provide figures for the number of staff members disciplined in recent years.

December 1, 2018