£37 million to ACAS to avoid tribunals [07-02-2008]

ACAS has just been granted an additional £37m and 200 more jobs over the next three years. This will be used to expand the helpline and other advisory services to try to avoid workplace disputes reaching employment tribunals.

Minister for Employment Relations, Pat McFadden, has announced additional funding of up to £37 million in a shake up of the dispute resolution system.

The announcement came at the Acas/CIPD employment relations conference in London on the 6th February. It signals the government's recognition that Acas provides an outstanding employment relations service which is vital to the British economy.

The funding will help Acas to extend its advisory and conciliation services. This includes increasing the capacity of its helpline, which already receives a million calls per year, and offering a range of other services aimed at preventing disputes at an early stage.

In response to the announcement, Acas Chair Ed Sweeney, said: "Acas provides a first-class service to employers and employees, based on impartiality, integrity and expertise. We also give the taxpayer outstanding value for money, with every pound invested in us resulting in a £16 benefit to the economy."

ACAS Website - www.acas.org.uk

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