Disability Information UKPlain-language information, rights and support

Employment tribunals and Acas early conciliation

The steps involved in bringing a workplace discrimination claim, including the compulsory early conciliation stage.

Guidance, not legal advice. This page summarises official UK sources listed below. What applies to you depends on your circumstances and nation.

Last reviewed
1 August 2026
Next review due
1 February 2027

Acas early conciliation

In Great Britain, you must normally contact Acas and get an early conciliation certificate before you can submit most employment tribunal claims, including disability discrimination claims. Acas conciliators are impartial and can help both sides reach a settlement without going to a hearing.

Time limits

Claims usually need to be started within three months less one day of the act complained of, though contacting Acas can extend this slightly. Because these limits are strict, get advice as early as possible if you are considering a claim.

Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland has its own Industrial Tribunal system and the Labour Relations Agency provides an equivalent conciliation service, with broadly similar short time limits.

Checklist

  • Note the date of the discrimination you want to complain about
  • Contact Acas (or the Labour Relations Agency in Northern Ireland) to start early conciliation
  • Get advice from a union, Citizens Advice or a solicitor about the strength and value of a claim

Where to get help