How can ACAS help if you're injured at work?

By Chris Salmon | Updated: September 12, 2025

When a workplace accident leads to injury, you may face disputes with your employer about sick pay, return-to-work arrangements, or even unfair treatment. ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) provides free, impartial advice and mediation services to help resolve employment-related issues without needing to go to court.

At a glance

ACAS offers free and impartial advice on workplace rights after an accident.
They help resolve disputes through conciliation and early resolution.
ACAS can guide employees and employers on reasonable adjustments and sick leave rights.
Using ACAS can prevent disputes escalating to an employment tribunal.

What is ACAS?

ACAS is a public body that helps improve workplace relationships. It provides guidance on employment rights and responsibilities, and it offers services to help resolve disputes between employers and employees.

How ACAS can help injured workers

Employment rights advice: ACAS explains your rights around sick pay, absence management, redundancy, and workplace adjustments.
Early conciliation: If you are considering an employment tribunal claim, ACAS must first be contacted for early conciliation. This process helps both parties find an agreement without going to tribunal.
Resolving disputes: ACAS mediators can step in if disagreements arise over returning to work, reasonable adjustments under the Equality Act, or treatment after reporting an injury.
Guidance for employers: ACAS provides employers with resources to support staff fairly, which can encourage better cooperation and compliance with the law.

Real-world example

A shop worker injured her back while lifting heavy stock. After months off work, her employer wanted to reduce her hours and suggested redundancy. The worker contacted ACAS, who provided guidance and initiated early conciliation. With ACAS support, the employer agreed to fund workplace adjustments and retain her role. The matter was resolved without going to tribunal.

When to contact ACAS

You should contact ACAS if:

Your employer refuses to record or report your accident.
You are pressured to return to work before you are medically fit.
You face disciplinary action related to absence after an injury.
You believe your employer is discriminating against you because of your injury.

Limits of ACAS

ACAS does not provide legal representation or financial compensation. Their role is to provide impartial advice and encourage resolution. For legal claims such as personal injury compensation, you will need a solicitor.

Next steps

If you are injured at work and are struggling with your employer, ACAS can be a valuable source of support. Contact them directly via the ACAS helpline or website for tailored guidance on your situation.

External references

ACAS: Reasonable adjustments - what they are and when employers must make them.
ACAS: Phased return to work - how to plan a supportive return after sickness or injury.
ACAS: Working time rules - rest breaks and safe working hours while recovering.
GOV.UK: Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) - eligibility, rates and how SSP works.
NHS: Getting a fit note - when you need one and how to get it.

About the author

Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.

More about Chris and WAAC

Last reviewed September 2025 by Chris Salmon

Have you been injured at work?

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