An investigation at work…. where do YOU start?

Have you ever been asked by someone to conduct an investigation against at work  and have no idea where to start?  Here are some steps to follow

STEP 1: Organisational preparation
• Decide if an investigation is necessary
• Establish terms of reference – the rules that the investigation will follow, including precisely what needs to be investigated
• Choose an appropriate investigator

STEP 2: An investigator’s preparation
• Draft an investigation plan
• Identify who might need to be called to an investigation meeting
• Identify what evidence might need to be gathered – and how to get it
• Contact parties involved in the matter

STEP 3: Handling an investigation meeting
• Establish who can accompany employees at the meeting
• Plan what questions need to be asked
• Interview the parties involved and any relevant witnesses
• Handle reluctant witnesses or refusals to meet appropriately

STEP 4: Gathering evidence
• Arrange and agree witness statements
• Collect any relevant written records and documents e.g. timesheets
• Collect any relevant and appropriate physical evidence e.g. CCTV

STEP 5: Writing an investigation report
• Plan the structure of the report
• Report what is likely to have happened – the balance of probabilities
• Make a recommendation where requested

STEP 6: After an investigation is completed
• Submit the report and conclude the investigator role
• Retain the report for an appropriate period of time
• Ensure any recommendations unrelated to the matter are considered

If you need more help and advice please contact us on 07810 563 676.