A firm of solicitors approached Stonebridge HR Consultants on behalf of a client, a Sheik Community Centre, to conduct a disciplinary investigation. Two employees of different sects had had an argument in Punjabi and there were only 2 witnesses of whom only 1 spoke Punjabi. Stonebridge HR conducted the interviews in a very low key manner and established what had occurred. The report and conclusions were presented to the elders so that they could decide how to act.

The solicitor said: It was a very sensitive situation and one that my client found extremely difficult to deal with. It is very creditable that Stonebridge HR managed to establish sufficient rapport with and gain the confidence of both the elders and the individuals. With their help my client was able to conclude the events with the minimum of problems.

NB: Names have been with held for confidentiality reasons.

A large household name company asked Stonebridge HR to investigate a grievance raised by a regional manager regarding bully by her fellow managers. As the company was also pursuing disciplinary procedures as well, they wanted clear transparency for the investigation into the grievance. The grievance related to behaviours by other regional managers at company events. Stonebridge HR conducted numerous interviews of regional managers and other staff to try to establish what had happened and whether the actions of the fellow manager amounted to bullying. Following the writing of a lengthy report a meeting was arranged with the manager and her union representative to be advised that the recommendation regarding the accusation of bullying should not be upheld.

The HR Manager commented: Stonebridge HR carried out a very though investigation in a very short period of time, given the varied locations of the managers who require interviewing. The interviews were conducted very sensitively as many individuals didn't want to get involved. The report was comprehensive and enabled us to conclude the matter with the individual concerned.

NB: Names have been with held for confidentiality reasons.