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ARTICLE · 08 SEPTEMBER 2026

Acas Publishes Fully Revised Draft Code Of Practice On Disciplinary And Grievance Procedures

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On 30 July 2026, Acas published a fully revised draft Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures, marking the first comprehensive update since 2015. The proposed changes introduce significant new requirements around informal resolution, reasonable adjustments for disabled workers, and updated guidance on suspension, mediation, and the right to be accompanied at workplace meetings.

United KingdomEmployment and HR
Emma Dangerfield
Emma Dangerfield

On 30 July 2026, Acas published a fully revised draft Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures (the Acas Code), together with a consultation which closes at 11.59pm on 23 September 2026. This is the first full revision of the Acas Code since minor updates were made in 2015, and the changes go significantly beyond those anticipated to reflect the unfair dismissal reforms in the Employment Rights Act 2025 (ERA 2025). The existing Acas Code runs to 47 paragraphs; the revised draft extends to 95.

Background and status

The Acas Code is a statutory code of practice. It is not binding in itself, but employment tribunals must take it into account where relevant, and an unreasonable failure to comply may lead a tribunal to adjust compensation (upwards or downwards) by up to 25% in relevant claims, including unfair dismissal and discrimination. The revised draft will be presented to the government following consultation and, if approved, laid before Parliament. No

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