Steward’s Role in Grievance Procedure
A steward is usually involved in the proceedings pursuant to the filing of a grievance because a member often needs:
- guidance through the process
- to organize or prepare documentation
- simply to be supported through what is often a very stressful process
The grievance procedure has specific requirements for the timelines of the filing and processing that must be followed.
Of course, the grievance procedure process is “the court of last resort.” Skilled stewards often are able to avert formal proceedings by intervening early in the complainant’s concerns with empathetic listening skills, accurate information, and an ability to help the member explore alternative ways of resolving conflicts or solving problems.
