Under New Zealand employment law, employees have the right to bring a support person or representative to meetings. This person can be anyone the employee chooses, such as a friend, family member, union representative, lawyer, or even a trusted colleague. With a support person's role going beyond just being a silent observer, there is confusion around what a support person can and cannot do. 

This episode aims to clarify common misconceptions and provide practical advice for both employees and employers. Join host Sanam as she discusses tips to ensure that the presence of a support person doesn’t disrupt the meeting's purpose.

This episode covers:

• When to offer a support person
• How much time to give employees to find a support person
• What a support person can and cannot do in a meeting
• Tips for navigating meetings with support persons

Packed with practical tips and insights, this episode equips you to handle potentially stressful situations with confidence. Don't miss out – tune in and gain valuable insights to protect your rights in the workplace!

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Got questions? Send them our way, and Sanam will feature them in the next episode. Email your queries to [email protected].

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Resources:

• Employment NZ - Informal Actions
• Mark Donovan - Is a support person allowed to speak?
• LegalVision - What is the role of a support person in disciplinary meetings?

Disclaimer: The content presented in this episode is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice. The host does not assume any liability for actions taken based on the content of this podcast. While the host is a lawyer, they are not your lawyer and the information provided is based on general legal information. This podcast does not create a solicitor-client relationship.While we strive to keep the information accurate and up-to-date as at the date of each episode, laws and regulations may change, and the content of this podcast may not reflect the most current legal standards or interpretations. Listeners are encouraged to consult with a qualified New Zealand legal professional for advice tailored to their specific situation.