What to do if you are having problems at work?

Having trouble with your employers can have serious effects on your confidence, productivity and general level of happiness. If you are having problems with your employer it is vital that you try and sort it out verbally first. Employment problems fall under two categories:

Grievances:

These are problems that you have with your employer; this can be anything from problems with treatment at work to employment terms. Generally the best way to approach these problems is to verbally communicate this to your direct superior or supervisor.

Disciplinary issues:

Disciplinary problems are problems that your employer may have with you, whether it’s work performance, behaviour or attendance and/or lateness. These problems can usually be solved through discussion with your superiors depending on the severity.

If these problems cannot be solved on a basic verbal level it is vital that you are aware of your rights as a worker as well as what steps you can take to help resolve your problems. There are number of free services that should be able to help resolves your problem as well as paid services for employment law advice.

Pay and work rights:

If your employer is making you work more hours than you should be (more than 48 hours a week without signing a waiver) or not paying you correctly it is advised you contact the pay and work rights helpline to see what can be done. If your employment also happens to be in the agricultural department, it’s recommended that you contact this line.

Seeking professional advice and resources:

If your problems and concerns cannot be solved through any of the methods mentioned above, it’s important that you seek the services of professionals who can help you fight your case. Using a professional service such as Riverview business law is a good place to start, as they will be able to clearly explain to you what steps need to be taken in order for this dispute to be resolved.

Acas:

If spending money on professional advice is beyond your means, contact Acas (advisory, conciliation and arbitration service) who can offer free, confidential and impartial advice on employment rights as well as go through ways in which you and your employer can help resolve these issues.

If nothing more can be done to resolve your problems you will be faced with having to make an employment tribunal claim. This claim must be made within 3 months of the complaint in question occurring as generally any complaints made after three months will not be accepted. Employment tribunal claims are notoriously difficult to handle alone as it requires a profound knowledge of employment law. You may either seek paid professional advice to help or the services of the Acas.

Sorting out work troubles can be an extremely stressful experience so keeping your cool is vital. There are many resources on the internet to help you decide how to take your complaints forward and it is advised that you make the most of these.