Formal invitation to a disciplinary hearing. Acas Code para 9 compliant — states the allegation, possible outcomes, companion right and preparation time. From £4.99.
A Disciplinary Invitation Letter is the formal written notice an employer must send before conducting any disciplinary hearing. Paragraph 9 of the Acas Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Procedures (SI 2015/649) requires the employer to notify the employee in writing of the allegation, the evidence, the date of the hearing, and the possible outcomes. Without this letter, any sanction imposed is procedurally flawed. From 1 January 2027, employees acquire unfair dismissal protection after 6 months under the Employment Rights Act 2025 — procedural compliance matters from day one.
Every time a formal disciplinary hearing is convened — for misconduct, gross misconduct, or performance issues. It must be sent before the hearing, giving the employee reasonable notice (the Acas Code recommends not less than 48 hours, and more for serious matters). The letter must be sent even where the matter is urgent or where gross misconduct is alleged — summary dismissal does not mean no process.
The nature of the allegation stated with sufficient particularity for the employee to prepare a response; the documentary evidence enclosed or available; the date, time and location of the hearing; the full range of possible outcomes including dismissal where relevant; the statutory right to be accompanied under Employment Relations Act 1999 s.10 (by a trade union representative or fellow worker); and the alternative date mechanism if the companion is unavailable under s.10(4).
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