Can I Bring a Union Representative to an Informal Civil Service Attendance Meeting?

Hello,

I am currently off sick and have been invited to what my manager calls an informal attendance review meeting.

I asked to bring my trade union representative because I am anxious about the meeting and want someone to help me understand what is being discussed. My manager has said that there is no right to representation because the meeting is informal.

The invitation does not clearly explain whether the meeting can lead to a warning, whether Occupational Health will be discussed or which stage of the attendance policy is being used.

Can I insist on having my union representative there? Should I ask for the meeting to be postponed if they are not available, and what should I prepare before attending?

Quick Answer

There is not an automatic statutory right to a companion at every informal attendance meeting, but your department policy may allow one and representation may also be relevant as a reasonable adjustment. The word informal does not by itself tell you what the meeting can record or lead to.

Read our Civil Service HR meetings guide for the relevant process, checks and practical guidance.

Need help with your own situation? Visit Get Tailored Advice or browse more questions in Advice.

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Continue reading to see how I would clarify the meeting status, request support properly and prepare a written record in case the discussion is later used in a formal attendance decision.

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