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Employment & HR

Disciplinary Policy Template

A disciplinary policy gives you a fair, ACAS-compliant process for addressing misconduct or poor performance. Following a clear procedure protects you if a decision is ever challenged at tribunal.

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What this disciplinary policy covers

When you need a disciplinary policy

The legal framework

Understanding the law behind a disciplinary policy helps you use it well. Here is the key UK legislation that applies:

Employment Rights Act 1996
The foundation of UK employment law — sets out the core rights around contracts, dismissal, redundancy and the written statement of particulars.
Employment Rights Act 2025
The most significant reform in a generation. Introduced day-one rights to statutory sick pay and certain family leave, strengthened protections for low-hours workers, and created the Fair Work Agency. Being phased in through 2026–2027.
Equality Act 2010
Prohibits discrimination in the workplace across nine protected characteristics — relevant to every policy and contract.
On the horizon. Further Employment Rights Act 2025 provisions continue to commence through 2026 and 2027, including an expected reduction in the unfair dismissal qualifying period from two years to around six months.

Frequently asked questions

Does a disciplinary policy need to follow the ACAS Code?

Yes. Tribunals expect employers to follow the ACAS Code of Practice, and unreasonable failure to do so can increase any award by up to 25%.

Can an employee bring someone to a disciplinary hearing?

Yes. Employees have a statutory right to be accompanied by a colleague or trade union representative.

How Legal Lift helps

Answer a few plain-English questions and our AI generator produces a tailored disciplinary policy, ready to edit, download as PDF or Word, and e-sign with LegalSign. Every template is kept current with UK law, and our SRA-regulated solicitor partners are available if you'd like it reviewed.

This page explains the law in general terms to help you understand your disciplinary policy. It is information, not legal advice. For guidance on your specific circumstances, our SRA-regulated solicitor partners are here to help.

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