Workplace Investigations

At Phillips Starr, we specialise in conducting investigations into complex workplace issues, including allegations of bullying, harassment, discrimination, and serious misconduct.

As ACAS-accredited investigators, we deliver a fair process that removes internal bias, while ensuring findings are defensible and aligned with employment law and HR best practice.

Work with us

How can we help?

  • Terms of Reference Drafting

    Clear definition of scope, issues, and objectives at the outset to ensure investigations remain focused, proportionate, and cost-effective.

  • Witness Interviewing

    Structured, professional interviews using techniques developed in complex police investigations. We use a trauma-informed approach that supports individuals while obtaining accurate and reliable accounts.

  • Credibility Assessment

    Structured review of CCTV footage and digital records to test timelines, verify accounts, and uncover discrepancies.

  • Risk & Process Guidance

    Practical insight throughout the investigation to help organisations navigate reputational, legal, and procedural risk.

Our Approach

We apply the same structured methodology used in serious police investigations, adapted to meet the standards required in employment and regulatory environments. This includes clear scoping, disciplined evidence gathering, and balanced, defensible decision-making.

We are experienced in managing complex and high-stakes allegations, including those involving senior individuals or sensitive subject matter. Our work is conducted with professionalism, discretion, and an awareness of the impact these processes have on all parties involved.

We act independently of internal HR functions, providing an objective perspective where impartiality is essential. Our role is not to replace HR or legal advisors, but to deliver a robust factual foundation upon which informed decisions can be made.

What We Deliver

We provide a comprehensive, tribunal-ready reports designed to support fair and defensible outcomes. This typically includes:

  • Transparent findings of fact, based on the evidence gathered

  • A structured assessment of witness credibility

  • Analysis of key issues and areas of dispute

  • Documentation of the investigative process and methodology

  • Findings aligned to the balance of probabilities standard

Our reports are clear, thorough, and designed to withstand external scrutiny, including employment tribunal proceedings where required.

All work is conducted with strict confidentiality and adherence to relevant legal, regulatory, and ethical standards.

Why work with us?

  • Former police detectives with experience managing complex and sensitive investigations

  • Specialist expertise in handling high-stakes workplace misconduct matters

  • Skilled in conducting structured, trauma-informed interviews

  • Objective and defensible credibility assessments

  • Trusted in sensitive organisational contexts

  • Professional, discreet, and reliable when it matters most

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