When faced with a potential constructive dismissal claim, the question of whether employers should admit fault and apologise to an employee in an attempt to put things right and avoid the employee's resignation, should be dealt with on a case by case basis. Case-law does not necessarily provide definitive guidance on such situations, however it does remind employers of the importance of ensuring that grievance officers are as far removed as possible from both the events that have occurred and the people involved.
The use of external HR consultants should be considered to hear grievances in certain cases, as only then may the employer come close to achieving a level of objectivity similar to that applied by any future tribunal called upon to decide whether or not a breach has occurred. If you are unsure as to how to deal with such an issue appropriately, please contact ann@s15hrservices.co.uk who will be happy to discuss this matter with you further.