Resolving Complex HR Challenges Case Study
Settlement Negotiations and Sickness Absence
HR systems, policies, templates, guidance, contracts and staff development software. Created in 2020 to consolidate the HR services Juniper offers, this service is now available as our People management solution and HR services.
Complex HR hurdles
Juniper Education was approached by a school facing a set of intricate HR challenges, including a settlement negotiation after a disciplinary hearing and managing sickness-related matters. Complications arose due to strained employee-school relations and concerns about maintaining professional boundaries.
Sensitive solutions and HR support
In addressing the challenges faced by the school, Juniper’s team of HR consultants encountered a multifaceted situation involving a disciplinary issue, sickness absence, and suspected mental health concerns. The circumstances were complex due to the strained relationship between the school and the employee, making returning to work difficult for everyone involved. While dismissal wasn't warranted, managing the process required a delicate approach.
Juniper supported the school in various respects, including providing templates, guidance, and tailored consultancy throughout the disciplinary and absence management phases. The team ensured our approach aligned with best practices and catered to the situation's sensitivity. We were able to communicate effectively with all parties involved, either verbally or in writing.
During the settlement negotiation, Juniper's consultants collaborated with the Headteacher to liaise with trade unions, negotiating an exit package aligned with the school's needs. Leveraging Juniper's legal expertise, the team navigated discussions in line with good practice, and despite the school using its legal provider to draft the agreement, our coordination and amendments helped save the school additional legal expenses.
The team also helped to facilitate an Occupational Health referral as part of the solution phase. Our approach centred on a personalised, hands-on strategy, considering the complexity and sensitivity of the circumstances faced by the school.
A successful resolution
Juniper’s dedicated education HR support played a pivotal role in alleviating the stress and complexities inherent in the situation for all parties. The team guided the school at every stage of the process, offering personalised guidance and hands-on assistance. By providing tailored solutions and diligently navigating the intricate HR challenges, we ensured the school felt supported and guided throughout, contributing to a smoother resolution of the issues at hand.
Ongoing partnerships
The school continues to utilise Juniper Education’s HR services. This ongoing partnership underscores the school’s proactive approach to navigating complex HR challenges.
