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WORKPLACE INVESTIGATION:
ESSENTIALS

​A practical, accessible introduction to managing day‑to‑day workplace issues and conducting proportionate investigations with confidence

Gain the confidence and core skills to handle low‑level workplace investigations with clarity, fairness, and professionalism.

 

This one‑day Essentials course introduces the fundamental steps involved in responding to concerns, gathering information, and reaching proportionate, well‑reasoned outcomes.

COURSE OVERVIEW

Duration: 1 Day
Level: Foundation
Delivery: In-person or virtual


This one‑day course provides a clear and practical introduction to handling workplace concerns and carrying out proportionate, low‑level investigations.

 

Learners explore the core principles of fairness, how to respond when issues are raised, and the simple steps involved in gathering information and making informed decisions.

 

Through guided discussion and realistic scenarios, the course builds confidence and capability for anyone who needs to manage day‑to‑day issues professionally and consistently.

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Interview
Meeting

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

This course is designed for anyone who needs to respond to workplace concerns or carry out low‑level investigations as part of their role, including:

  • New or aspiring managers and team leaders

  • HR administrators and generalists

  • Supervisors and duty managers

  • Customer‑facing or service‑delivery managers

  • Safeguarding, pastoral, or welfare staff

  • Employees who occasionally handle complaints or conduct issues

  • Anyone looking to build or refresh their confidence before progressing to Practitioner level

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

  • Recognise and respond appropriately when workplace concerns are raised

  • Hold fair, confident conversations to understand what has happened

  • Gather basic information in a structured, proportionate way

  • Ask simple, effective questions to clarify facts and avoid assumptions

  • Record information clearly and objectively

  • Know when to resolve an issue, seek advice, or escalate for a formal investigation

COURSE FORMAT

  • One full day of interactive, practical learning

  • Short scenarios, guided exercises, and group discussion

  • Simple checklists and templates to support low‑level investigations

  • Clear, jargon‑free explanations of core concepts

  • Certificate of completion provided

Interview
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Module 1 – Understanding Workplace Concerns

​This module introduces the types of issues that commonly arise in the workplace and how to recognise when action is needed. Learners explore the purpose of low‑level investigations, the role they play in early resolution, and how to distinguish between concerns that can be managed locally and those that require escalation. The focus is on clarity, confidence, and knowing what “good” looks like at the first point of contact.

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Module 2 – Fairness, Impartiality, and Good Practice

​​This module covers the core principles that underpin fair and consistent handling of concerns. Learners explore impartiality, confidentiality, managing bias, and how to approach situations with an open and balanced mindset. The module also introduces basic expectations from ACAS and organisational policy, helping learners understand their responsibilities and the standards they are expected to meet.

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Module 3 – Conversations and Information Gathering

​This module provides practical guidance on how to speak with employees when concerns are raised. Learners develop skills in asking simple, open questions, listening effectively, clarifying information, and managing sensitive or emotional conversations. The emphasis is on proportionate, early‑stage information gathering — enough to understand what has happened and decide on the appropriate next steps.

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Module 4 – Recording, Decision‑Making, and Next Steps

​​This module explores how to record information clearly and objectively, including what to note, how to summarise key points, and how to avoid common pitfalls. Learners gain clarity on how to make proportionate decisions, when to resolve issues informally, and when to escalate for a formal investigation. The module closes with practical guidance on signposting, follow‑up, and ensuring outcomes are fair, transparent, and well‑reasoned.

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