Are You Raising a Complaint or Grievance at Work? A Guide for Wigan Employees

Raising a grievance at work can feel daunting—especially when you’re worried about backlash, awkwardness, or losing your job. Whether you’re facing bullying in a Wigan warehouse, unfair treatment in a shop, or discrimination in an office, you have rights. At MBH Solicitors, we’ve helped hundreds of Wigan workers raise grievances confidently and fairly. We’re a local employment law firm based right here in Wigan, and we’re here to support you.

This easy-to-read guide explains what a grievance is, your rights under UK law, how to raise one properly, and how to protect yourself—no matter your role in Wigan’s factories, retail parks, or call centres.

What Is a Grievance at Work?

Although they can be raised informally at first, a grievance is a formal complaint about something at work that’s affecting you. Common examples include:

• Bullying or harassment (including online or after hours)
• Unfair treatment (e.g., being overlooked for promotion)
• Discrimination (based on age, gender, race, disability, sex, etc.)
• Health and safety concerns (e.g., unsafe conditions in a factory)
• Pay or contract issues (e.g. wrong wages or forced overtime)

You don’t have to put up with it. UK law says your employer should have a grievance procedure and take your complaint seriously.

Your Rights When Raising a Grievance in Wigan

The ACAS Code of Practice sets clear rules. Here’s what you’re entitled to:

• A Fair Process - Your employer must investigate properly and promptly—speaking to you, witnesses, and reviewing evidence.
• Put It in Writing - You should raise your grievance in writing (email or letter). Keep a copy.
• A Formal Meeting - You’ll be invited to a grievance hearing to explain your concerns. You can bring a colleague or trade union rep.
• A Written Outcome - After the meeting, your employer must give you a written decision within a reasonable time.
• The Right to Appeal - If you’re unhappy with the outcome, you can appeal in writing. This should be reviewed by someone senior and impartial.

Why Raise a Grievance?

Many Wigan workers hesitate—but raising a grievance can:

• Fix the problem (e.g., stop bullying or correct pay)
• Protect your mental health
• Create a paper trail if things escalate (e.g., to tribunal)
• Lead to compensation if your employer fails to act

How to Raise a Grievance: Step-by-Step

Follow these steps to raise your complaint safely and effectively:

• Check Your Contract or Handbook - Look for your employer’s grievance policy. Most follow ACAS guidelines.
• Write Your Grievance Letter - Keep it clear, factual, and professional. Include:
  • What happened (dates, times, people involved)
  • How it’s affected you
  • What you want (e.g., an apology, policy change, investigation)
  Need help? MBH Solicitors can provide you with the guidance you need.
• Send It to the Right Person - Usually your line manager or HR. If your manager is the problem, go higher.
• Prepare for the Meeting - Bring notes, evidence (emails, photos, witness names), and your companion.
• Stay Calm and Factual - Focus on the issue—not personalities. Take notes during the meeting.
• Appeal If Needed - If the outcome isn’t fair, appeal within 5 working days.

What If Your Employer Ignores or Retaliates?

It is unlawful to punish you for raising a legitimate grievance. If they:

• Demote or isolate you
• Give you worse shifts
• Dismiss you

…you may have a claim for victimisation or constructive dismissal.

Common Grievance Issues in Wigan Workplaces

We see these often:

• Bullying by supervisors or Managers
• Unrealistic expectations - placed on workers
• Disability discrimination - (e.g., no adjustments for back pain)
• Whistleblowing retaliation - (e.g., reporting safety breaches)

How MBH Solicitors Can Help Wigan Employees

We’re Wigan’s local employment law experts. Here’s how we support you:

• Free Initial Guidance: We are happy to discuss your complaint with you.
• Review the circumstance: We read your grievance letter and advise on strength.
• Drafting Help: We can write or improve your letter to maximise impact.
• Meeting Support: We prep you with questions, responses, and strategy. 
• Negotiation & Appeals: We challenge weak outcomes and push for resolution. 
• Tribunal Claims: If needed, we represent you for compensation.

Raising a grievance in Wigan? Get it right from the start.

Call MBH Solicitors today on 01942 206060 or book a free consultation online. We’ll guide you in plain English and fight for a fair outcome.

Final Thoughts: Your Voice Matters

Raising a grievance isn’t “making trouble”—it’s standing up for your rights. Done properly, it can improve your workplace, protect your job, and give you peace of mind.

Don’t suffer in silence. Early advice can prevent escalation and strengthen your position.

Contact MBH Solicitors in Wigan now:

📩 mbh@wigansolicitors.com
📞 01942 206060