Grievances

Introduction - Policy

WIRES is committed to ensuring its volunteers and staff do not suffer:

• Harassment
• Bullying
• Disparaging or defamatory behaviour
• Abusive or insulting behaviour
• Sexual harassment
• Discrimination.

WIRES volunteers and staff have a right to work in a safe and non-threatening environment, where they are treated fairly, and with respect and courtesy.

This is essential to:

• Safeguard the health and welfare of WIRES volunteers and staff, and
• Ensure WIRES is compliant with relevant legislation.

Summary of Grievance Handling Procedure

In the case of any member grievance the following procedure will apply:

The Branch will provide initial support to the member.

The Branch will assess the seriousness of the matter.

If the Branch identifies the matter is serious i.e. involving alleged animal cruelty, major breach of WIRES Code or Policies, or alleged physical abuse/verbal abuse, the Branch will immediately contact the WIRES Volunteer Support Manager (VSM). 

If Branch decides it is a matter it is able to handle, it will follow the WIRES Grievance Handling Procedure, and attempt to resolve the matter. 

In the course of handling the matter the Branch will investigate the matter, and may carry out any of the following steps, as appropriate.

• Seek an informal meeting with complainants/parties.
• Seek a formal meeting between the complainants/parties and the Branch Executive.
• Refer the matter for external mediation or conciliation.
• If the Branch is unable to resolve the matter successfully, they will refer it to the Volunteer Support Manager (VSM).

The VSM, when they receive a matter from the Branch, will review the matter and return it to the Branch advising what further action the Branch is to take, or investigate the matter and provide a report to the Board with recommendations. 

The Board will review the VSM report and make a final decision. 

The Board’s determination on the matter is final and completes handling of the matter within WIRES. There is no further recourse regarding the matter within WIRES.

HERE IS THE FULL POLICY ON GRIEVANCE PROCESSES: Grievance Processes and Disciplinary Policies for Members