Employers
should note that Acas early conciliation timescales are changing from 1
December 2020.
Early
conciliation rules say that anyone proposing to bring a claim in the Employment
Tribunals must first go through a free, impartial ‘early conciliation’ scheme
run by Acas. Previously, the rules said that Acas would ‘endeavour to promote a
settlement’ for a month, although this period could be extended for up to 14
days if a settlement looked likely as the expiry date approached.
From 1 December 2020 the one-month
conciliation period is extended to six weeks in every case, and the ability to
extend the period by 14 days is abolished.
Employers will need to plan to
reach a settlement within the new time period if they are to avoid Employment
Tribunal claims proceeding because settlement could not be reached in time.
For more information on our tribunal services and how our Employment team can support you during this difficult process get in touch now on 01484 821 500 or email the team on 01484 821 500.