ACAS “early conciliation” (“EC”) comes into force on 6 April 2014. Following a transitional period, EC becomes mandatory on 5 May 2014.
ACAS “early conciliation” (“EC”) comes into force on 6 April 2014. Following a transitional period, EC becomes mandatory on 5 May 2014. Parties will have to follow a 4 step procedure for all relevant claims:
the individual informs ACAS of their details on an EC Form;
the EC Support Officer (“ESCO”) contacts the individual (and the employer)
the ECSO promotes settlement; and
the outcome is then confirmed (either, by issuing an EC Certificate where settlement has not been possible or, by a written agreement confirming the terms of settlement where it has).
Only then can a claim be submitted to the Tribunal. The aim is to discourage the submission of claims to the Tribunals, although its not certain that this will actually be achieved.
