Managers guide to employee suspensions
Our managers guide to employee suspensions equips you with a structured framework for effective use.
- 2 pages / 653 words.
- Last updated 12/10/2025.
- Designed for United Kingdom use.
- Suitable for use in other territories; check local laws first.
- Instantly download as Word / PDF / plain text, or send by email.
- Includes 12 months’ access, with all updates to this page provided free of charge and notified to you.
Managers guide to employee suspensions
This guide outlines best practices to ensure a fair, lawful, and professional approach to employee suspensions. By following these steps, you can manage an employee suspension effectively, ensuring fairness, compliance, and professionalism.
1. Understand the Purpose of Suspension
Suspension is not a disciplinary action but a neutral act intended to:
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Protect the investigation process.
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Safeguard individuals involved (e.g., the employee, colleagues, customers).
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Protect the integrity of the business or workplace.
2. Consider Alternatives to Suspension
Before deciding to suspend, explore alternatives such as:
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Temporary changes to working patterns.
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Reassignment to a different role or location.
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Enhanced supervision.
3. Follow Organisational Policy
Ensure you comply with:
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Your organisation’s disciplinary and suspension policy.
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Employment contracts and any collective agreements.
4. Assess the Situation
Suspend only when necessary, such as when:
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The allegations are serious (e.g., gross misconduct).
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There is a risk of interference with evidence or witnesses.
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The employee’s presence may escalate tensions or harm.
5. Consider the Severity of the Allegation
The nature and severity of the allegation may
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Suspending an employee is a serious and often difficult decision, requiring sensitivity and careful judgement.
This Guide contains the following sections:
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Understand the purpose of suspension
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Consider slternatives to suspension
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Follow organisational policy
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Assess the situation
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Consider the severity of the allegation
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Seek authorisation
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Notify the employee
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Provide written confirmation
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Maintain communication
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Conduct a fair investigation
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Review the suspension regularly
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Conclude the suspension
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Document everything
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Be mindful of wellbeing
Compliance
Compliance
This Managers guide to employee suspensions incorporates relevant UK laws and HR standards, including those listed below:
It can have significant implications not only for the individual concerned but also for their colleagues and the wider workplace. The decision to suspend—or not to suspend—can impact team morale, trust in leadership, and the reputation of the organisation.
As such, it must be handled with fairness, transparency, and professionalism.
Flowchart
Flowchart
Check which resources should be implemeted before and/or after the Managers guide to employee suspensions, to understand the workflow.
Suspension policy
Our Suspension Policy Template ensures fair and consistent procedures are followed during employee suspensions, protecting both employees and the company.
Notice of suspension letter
Our Notice of Suspension Letter Template ensures a formal and clear communication during employee suspension, preserving procedural fairness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
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Can I use this template in my small business?
Yes. The Managers guide to employee suspensions is designed to be flexible and suitable for organisations of all sizes, including small businesses and charities. It follows UK employment law best practice, so even if you don't have an in-house HR team, you can confidently apply it.
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Is this template compliant with 2025 UK employment law?
Absolutely. All of our templates are drafted with the latest ACAS guidance and UK employment legislation in mind. We review and update them regularly, so you can be confident they remain compliant.
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Can I customise it for my organisation?
Yes, we highlight the areas that you need to update with your own details, and where you need to make decisions to suit your situation. This saves you time and ensures that you meet best practice.
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Do I get instant access?
Yes. Once purchased, you'll be able to download it instantly. Templates are provided in editable Word or Excel format so you can customise them easily, and in PDF format for easy sharing.
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What if I need more help, not just this template?
If you're looking for broader support, we also offer toolkits and library bundles that include this template, along with other HR templates and policies for fully managing your situation. These may be more cost-effective if you need deeper advice.
