Before you send
Complete every bracketed field, choose applicable options and remove unused text. Remove the guidance page from the recipient’s copy. Keep the source acknowledgement when sharing the template.
- Complete only after a fair process and consideration of the employeeÔÇÖs response. A template does not determine the appropriate sanction.
- Specify expectations, support, review points and warning duration. Select a consequence consistent with the warning level and policy.
- Insert the actual appeal route and reasonable policy timescale. The Acas exampleÔÇÖs suggested period is not a universal statutory deadline.
Preview the editable letter
[Date]
Dear [employee name],
Following the disciplinary hearing on [date], I have decided to issue a [first written warning / final written warning].
The findings are [explain the findings on each matter]. My reasons, including consideration of your response and relevant mitigation, are [give reasons].
The improvement required is [describe specific conduct or performance expectations]. This must be achieved by [date or timescale]. We will provide [support or training] and review progress on [dates].
The warning will remain current for disciplinary purposes until [date], in accordance with [relevant policy]. [Explain what happens to the record after that date under the applicable policy.]
Further misconduct or insufficient improvement may lead to a further disciplinary process and [state the appropriate possible consequence]. Any further decision will depend on the circumstances and a fair process.
You may appeal in writing to [name, role and contact details], explaining your grounds, by [date or policy timescale]. If you need help accessing the appeal process or wish to discuss the timescale, contact [name].
Yours sincerely, [Decision-maker name] [Job title and organisation]
What we adapted
Added reasoned findings, mitigation, support and review prompts. Replaced a suggested fixed appeal period with the organisationÔÇÖs applicable timescale and a contact route.
Source and permissions
Read the original Acas template ↗
Source last updated 2024-11-18.
Acas source material is Crown copyright. Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. ADM HR branding and editorial additions are independent. This is not an official Acas document and is not endorsed by Acas.