Fair, consistent handling of sensitive employee matters
Disciplinaries, grievances and absence cases are some of the most stressful situations a manager deals with. They are also where small process mistakes cause the biggest problems. An investigation that was not quite thorough enough, evidence that was not shared, or a decision made before the employee had a chance to respond can make a fair outcome look unfair.
Sapphire helps you handle these matters calmly and correctly. Founder Tracey Darby has more than 20 years' experience of complex employee relations cases in UK and international organisations, and brings that judgement to each situation.
Disciplinary and grievance support
We can support any stage of a disciplinary or grievance process:
- deciding whether an informal conversation or a formal process is right
- planning and carrying out a fair investigation
- inviting the employee to a hearing and sharing the evidence correctly
- running the hearing, or advising the manager who chairs it
- reaching and recording a reasonable outcome
- handling an appeal
Our free disciplinary hearing flowchart shows the steps a fair hearing should follow.
Absence and performance management
Frequent short absences, long-term sickness and performance that is not improving all need a clear, consistent approach. We help you hold the right conversations, consider reasonable adjustments where health may be involved, and follow a fair process if things do not improve. Our absence management guide covers the basics for line managers.
Why process matters more than ever
From 1 January 2027, employees will be able to bring an unfair dismissal claim after six months' service instead of two years. The cap on unfair dismissal compensation is also being removed. A consistent, well-documented process protects your organisation and treats your people fairly.
Support that stays in the background, or alongside you
Some clients want advice in the background while their managers lead the process. Others want hands-on help. We agree the right level of support at the start, so you know exactly what we will do.
Sapphire is based in Derbyshire and supports employers across the Midlands and the UK, remotely and onsite.