Employee Grievances Policy

Grievances are formal complaints employees shall file to document their concerns with an aspect of their workplace. These grievances might be filed as a result of an incident or conflict with a fellow employee.
A grievance shall be filed for nearly any reason, including physical workplace complaints, financial issues like payroll and social circumstances like harassment or bullying. Universal Financial Associates Inc (the “Company”) with this policy, shall outline a formal process for resolving grievances so that employees know how to handle their concerns in a professional way. 

Definition of a Grievance

A grievance is any concern, problem, or complaint that an employee has regarding their work conditions, treatment by colleagues or supervisors, or any aspect of their employment. This includes, but is not limited to, issues related to:
  • Workplace harassment or discrimination
  • Unfair treatment or disciplinary actions
  • Unsafe working conditions
  • Violations of company policies
  • Conflicts with colleagues or supervisors

Principles

Confidentiality
All grievances will be handled with the highest level of confidentiality. Information will only be shared with individuals directly involved in the investigation and resolution process.
No Retaliation
Employees who raise grievances in good faith will not face retaliation or adverse consequences. Retaliation against employees for reporting grievances is strictly prohibited and will result in disciplinary action.
Fairness and Impartiality
Grievances will be addressed in a fair and impartial manner. All parties involved will have an opportunity to present their side of the issue.
Timeliness
Grievances will be addressed promptly to ensure a timely resolution. The Company aims to resolve all grievances as quickly as possible.

Grievance Procedure

Informal Resolution
Employees are encouraged to first attempt to resolve grievances informally by discussing the issue directly with the person(s) involved or their immediate supervisor. Many issues can be resolved quickly through open communication.
Formal Grievance Submission
If the grievance cannot be resolved informally, the employee should submit a formal grievance in writing to their supervisor or the Human Resources (HR) department. The written grievance should include:
  • A detailed description of the issue
  • The names of the individuals involved
  • Any relevant dates and times
  • Any supporting documentation or evidence
  • The desired outcome or resolution
Acknowledgment
Upon receipt of the formal grievance, HR will acknowledge the complaint in writing within Ten (10) business days and provide an estimated timeline for the investigation and resolution process.
Investigation
HR will conduct a thorough investigation into the grievance. This may include:
  • Interviewing the employee who submitted the grievance
  • Interviewing other parties involved
  • Reviewing relevant documents and evidence
  • Consulting with management or legal advisors, if necessary
Resolution
Based on the findings of the investigation, HR will recommend a resolution. This may involve mediation, disciplinary action, policy changes, or other appropriate measures. The resolution will be communicated to the employee in writing.
Appeal Process
If the employee is not satisfied with the resolution, they may appeal the decision in writing to a higher-level manager or executive within [insert number] business days of receiving the resolution. The appeal should include:
  • The reasons for the appeal
  • Any new evidence or information
  • The desired outcome or resolution
  • The appeal will be reviewed, and a final decision will be communicated to the employee in writing.

Record Keeping

HR will maintain records of all formal grievances, investigations, and resolutions. These records will be kept confidential and stored securely, in accordance with Company’s data retention policies and applicable Federal and State Laws.

Training and Communication

Training
All employees, supervisors, and managers will receive training on the grievance policy and procedures. This ensures that everyone understands how to raise and address grievances appropriately.
Communication
The grievance policy will be communicated to all employees and included in the employee handbook. Employees will be reminded of the policy periodically and informed of any updates.
Universal Financial Associates Inc is committed to maintaining
a positive and productive work environment.
By providing a clear and fair grievance policy, we aim to address employee concerns effectively and ensure that all employees feel heard and valued.