Workplace investigations
A three-part webinar
This three-part webinar is designed to introduce participants to the knowledge and skills required for conducting investigations in the workplace. It will benefit all those, managers and HR professionals alike, who may be involved in a range of investigations, including disciplinary investigations, investigations into allegations of harassment / bullying and grievance investigations, etc.
The first webinar (90 minutes) focuses on the key principles of investigations and sets the foundation for an effective, fair and robust investigation. The second session (also 90 minutes) focuses on planning and conducting an investigation and gives practical guidance on a range of complex situations that may arise during an investigation. The final webinar (three hours, with a break) is a highly practical case study-based simulation session.
Workshop information
Webinar one outline
1. Welcome, agenda, overview
- Objectives and agenda
2. Robust investigations
- Following best practice and organisational policies
- Ensuring a fair and reasonable investigation, underpinned by case law
3. Knowing when to investigate
- Key factors to consider, including the value of a preliminary investigation
4. Launching the investigation
- Scoping the investigation, and appointing an investigator
- When to suspend
5. Investigation principles
- Purpose and outcomes
- Roles and responsibilities
- Objectivity and confidentiality
6. Challenging situations
- Complex investigations, eg, potential criminal proceedings, safeguarding, etc
- Other challenges
7. Action plans and next steps
Webinar two outline
1. Welcome, agenda, overview
- Objectives and agenda
2. Planning an investigation
- How to plan your investigation
- Importance of mind-set
3. Gathering evidence
- Sources of evidence
- Investigation interviews and statements
- Key challenges, eg, reluctant witnesses and requests for anonymity
4. Evaluating evidence and making your recommendation
- How to weigh up evidence and mitigating factors
- Dealing with conflicting versions
- The investigation report and next steps
5. The skills of an investigator
- Identifying skills and self-assessment
6. Challenging situations
- Mini case scenarios to highlight challenging situations, eg, counter-allegations, sickness, etc
7. Action plans and next steps
- Participants reflect on how they will transfer this learning into the workplace and further development as appropriate
Webinar three outline
1. Welcome, agenda, overview
- Objectives and agenda
2. Investigation interviews
- Best practice review
- Structuring the interview
- Whole group exercise
3. Case study 1
- Planning to conduct an investigation interview
- Practical exercise
- Debrief of learning
4. Case study 2
- Planning to conduct an investigation interview
- Practical exercise
- Debrief of learning
5. Open forum
6. Action plans and next steps
- Participants reflect on how they will transfer this learning into the workplace and further development as appropriate
