STEWARD HANDBOOK

Two Examples of How to Write a Grievance
Each example shows a poorly written grievance followed by a much
better version.
Example 1 - Change in Starting Time Results in a Reprimand
Poorly Written
Statement of the Grievance
Without even talking to the union about it, management decided to
change the starting time of the morning shift. Changing the start time
for the morning shift by 45 minutes wreaked havoc on the lives of
everyone, and John Wright received a written reprimand for having to
leave early to pick up his school-age children, who he always picked up
after his shift. Management never listens to the union and they can’t
just go around doing whatever they want. This is unfair for all workers
on these two shifts.
Remedy
That management stop pulling stunts like this and start following
the contract.
Much Better
Statement of the Grievance
On Oct. 30, management changed the start time of the morning shift
without notice to the employees and the union. This change in the
morning shift start time caused Mr. John Wright to receive a written
reprimand due to inability to make needed arrangements as it related
to those family members he acts as caregiver for. This action violates
Article VII (Hours of Work), Article XIV (Definition of Shifts) and
any other relevant articles of the contract.
Remedy
That management immediately return to the schedule described in
the contract. That the reprimand Mr. Wright unjustly received be
rescinded and removed from his personnel records. That Mr. Wright
be made whole.
32