Appeals against disciplinary decisions

What is an appeal?

An appeal allows you to ask for a review of a disciplinary decision if you believe something went wrong.

It is not:

• A re-hearing of your case
• A chance to submit new evidence
• A full re-investigation

When Can You Appeal?

You can appeal if you believe:

• The process wasn’t followed properly
• The decision was unfair or too severe
• The evidence wasn’t considered correctly

How to Appeal

You must:

• Submit your appeal in writing within 10 working days
• Clearly explain:
  – Why you are appealing
  – Which of the above reasons applies

What Happens Next?

1. Your appeal will be checked to make sure it meets the criteria
2. A senior manager (who was not involved before) will review your case
3. They will only look at:
   a. The original evidence
   b. Your appeal explanation
4. The review will typically be a desk-based review

You may be contacted by the reviewing manager by email or telephone to seek clarification on elements of your appeal.

You may be invited to a short meeting if necessary, but this will only focus on your appeal reasons.

If you are invited to a short meeting, you can be accompanied if you wish and any reasonable adjustments for this meeting will be considered.

What Could the Outcome Be?

The senior manager may:

• Agree with the original decision
• Reduce or change the sanction
• Overturn the decision completely

When Will You Hear Back?

You will receive a written decision within 10 working days of your appeal being reviewed.

Important to Know

• There is only one opportunity to appeal, and the appeal decision is final
• You cannot submit new evidence at this stage
• The process is designed to ensure fairness and consistency

Read more of our policies below