Grievance Appeal Letter Templates and Examples

Dealing with workplace issues can be challenging, and sometimes a grievance outcome may

not be in your favor. A grievance appeal letter is a formal way to challenge that decision and request a review. This letter can be used when you believe the outcome of a grievance was unfair, incorrect, or incomplete, allowing you to raise concerns with your employer or HR department in a structured and professional manner.

Grievance Appeal Letter Template

Here’s a template you can adapt for your situation:

[Today's date]

[Employer’s Name]

[Employer’s Address]

Subject: Formal Appeal of Grievance Decision Dated [Date of Outcome Letter]

Dear [Name of Employer / HR Manager / Line Manager],

I am writing to formally appeal against the decision taken on my recent grievance, which was notified to me on [Date].

My reasons for appeal are:

[Set out the basis for your appeal. Examples include:

• You disagree with the way the grievance was handled

• You feel the decision taken was wrong

• You have new evidence that should be considered]

[Optional] I would like [give details of what you want your employer to do to resolve the grievance].

Please let me know when I can meet you to talk about my appeal.

I would like to be accompanied at the meeting by [Name].

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]

Key Components of Your Grievance Appeal Letter

To ensure your appeal is taken seriously, your letter should include several essential details:

1. Formal Header

   Include your name, address, date, the employer’s name and address. This establishes professionalism and ensures the letter reaches the right hands.

   
   

2. Subject Line

   Make it clear and concise, for example: "Appeal Against Grievance Outcome Dated

   [Date]". This immediately tells the recipient the purpose of your letter.

   
   

3. Opening

   Start by stating that you are formally appealing the decision from [Date] regarding [Original Grievance Topic].

   
   

4. Grounds for Appeal

   Explain specifically why the decision was unfair or incorrect. Be specific, factual, and detailed in your explanation. Below are some potential grounds for an appeal:

   
   

   • Procedural Issues

     Highlight any issues with how the grievance process was handled, such as

     missed witnesses or misinterpreted statements.

     
     

   • New Evidence or Witnesses

     Include any new information or witnesses that were not considered during the

     original grievance. Explain why this information is important.

     
     

   • Misunderstanding

     Clarify if the investigator failed to understand key points in your grievance.

     
     

   • Unfair Outcome

     State clearly why you disagree with the conclusion reached in the original grievance.

   
   

5. Desired Outcome

   Specify what you want as a resolution, such as further investigation, review by a senior manager, or specific corrective action.

   
   

6. Request for Meeting

   Ask for a meeting to discuss your appeal and indicate that you would like to be accompanied by a colleague or union representative.

   
   

7. Closing

   End professionally with a sign-off like Sincerely or Regards, followed by your typed name.

Tips for Writing a Grievance Appeal Letter

1. Be specific: Vague statements of disagreement are insufficient. Include facts, dates, and evidence.

   
   

2. Be professional: Avoid emotional, threatening, or overly casual language.

   
   

3. Check policy: Review your workplace’s grievance policy for correct procedures and

   timelines.

   
   

4. Act promptly: Submit your appeal as soon as possible after receiving the grievance decision.

About the Author

Lyndon Gainham

Lyndon Gainham is the co-founder of GHR Source, a best-selling author, entrepreneur, and HR expert with over 30 years’ experience in top financial institutions, including the Bank of England and Barclays. He helps clients solve workplace challenges with creative, bespoke solutions and encourages them to build extraordinary lives. A Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Development, Lyndon enjoys hiking, exploring Byzantine art, and sampling England’s finest country ciders.