The Disciplinary and Grievance Appeals Panel is established to review appeals relating to disciplinary actions or grievance outcomes within the Town Council. The Panel ensures that appeals are handled fairly, impartially, and in accordance with legal and procedural requirements.
The Disciplinary and Grievance Appeals Panel shall be comprised of three Members to be appointed at the Annual Meeting, or when a vacancy arises.
The Chair will be appointed from among Panel members. In this instance the Chair will not have and additional casting vote.
For the panel to be quorate full attendance of all three members is required.
Members cannot sit on both the Human Resources Committee and the Disciplinary and Grievance Appeals Sub-Committee to ensure impartiality.
The Town Clerk or an appropriate officer may attend to provide administrative support but will not have voting rights.
The Panel will:
Hear appeals from employees or individuals affected by disciplinary decisions or grievance resolutions.
Review the basis of the appeal, including procedural fairness and adherence to council policies.
Consider representations from all relevant parties involved in the appeal.
Assess whether the original decision was appropriate based on the evidence and council regulations.
Provide a recommendation or ruling on the appeal, ensuring fairness and compliance with employment law and council procedures.
Maintain confidentiality and professionalism throughout the appeals process.
Advise the Town Council on potential improvements to disciplinary or grievance procedures if required.
The Committee will report regularly to the Town Council, providing updates on progress, challenges, and recommendations for future action. Decisions requiring financial expenditure or policy changes will require Full Council approval.
These Terms of Reference will be reviewed annually to ensure they remain fit for purpose and align with the evolving needs of the town.
