Acas early conciliation


A second important change to the tribunal system was the introduction of Acas early conciliation. From May 2014, a new first step must be taken by all claimants before issuing a tribunal claim. This new first step is to contact Acas by completing and submitting an Early Conciliation Notification Form. This step must be taken within the time period for bringing the claim (usually three months). Otherwise the claim will not be allowed to proceed. The service is free.


Reps should note that the early conciliation process does not apply to claims for interim relief (see page 71). Although initial contact with Acas is compulsory, either side is free to refuse to participate in conciliation without penalty.