Appeal Against Dismissal Letter: Free Template and What to Include

If you need to formally appeal a dismissal decision, a written letter is the recommended first step — it creates a clear record and shows you're pursuing the matter formally. Below is what a strong appeal against dismissal should include.

What this letter needs to cover

• Clearly state it is a formal appeal
• Identify the grounds (unfair procedure
• Disproportionate sanction
• New evidence
• Bias etc)
• Request an appeal hearing
• Mention right to be accompanied
• State the desired outcome

Why appealing matters, even if you plan to bring a tribunal claim

Appealing a dismissal internally isn't just about trying to get your job back — it also demonstrates that you gave your employer a fair opportunity to reconsider before escalating further, which can matter if the case later goes to an Employment Tribunal. Failing to appeal when a genuine internal process was available can sometimes be used against you, or reduce any compensation awarded.

What to include before you send it

• A clear statement that you're appealing the dismissal, and on what specific grounds
• Point to any procedural failures — for example, an unfair investigation, missing evidence, or lack of proper consultation
• Address the substance of the decision itself, not just the process, where relevant
• State clearly what outcome you're seeking — reinstatement, a reduced sanction, or a formal review

Common mistakes

• Missing the appeal deadline — most dismissal letters specify a short window, often 5 to 10 working days, to lodge an appeal
• Only restating your original defence — a strong appeal identifies something specifically wrong with the decision or process, not just disagreement with the outcome

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to appeal before going to an Employment Tribunal?
It's not always a strict legal requirement, but failing to use a genuinely available internal appeal process can affect your case and any compensation, so it's generally worth doing where one exists.

How long does an appeal usually take?
This varies by employer, but you're entitled to ask for a reasonable timescale and to be kept updated if there are delays.

[Your Name]
[Your Job Title]
[Your Department]
[Employer Name / Company Name]
[HR Department or Manager's Name]
[Company Address]
[Date]

Dear [Name of Manager or HR Representative],

Subject: Appeal against Dismissal – [Your Name]

I am writing to formally appeal the decision to dismiss me, set out in your letter dated [Date of the decision letter].

I am appealing this decision on the following grounds:
1. [Reason 1: e.g., The policy/procedure was not followed correctly because...]
2. [Reason 2: e.g., New evidence has come to light that was not considered, which is...]
3. [Reason 3: e.g., The decision to dismiss was too harsh because...]

As the outcome of this appeal, I am asking for [e.g., my reinstatement / a lesser sanction / the decision to be reviewed].

I have attached the following supporting documents/evidence for your consideration: [List any evidence, or write "N/A"].

I understand that an appeal hearing will be arranged to discuss this matter. I wish to exercise my statutory right to be accompanied at this meeting by a [work colleague OR trade union representative], whose details I will provide once the date is confirmed.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]