Independent investigations for complex workplace issues

In today’s working environment, organisations face an increasing range of challenges that demand careful, impartial investigation. Allegations of misconduct, bullying, harassment or other breaches of trust can have a profound impact on workplace culture and carry significant legal and reputational risks. When such issues arise, a thorough and fair investigation is essential not only to establish the facts but also to maintain confidence in the integrity of the organisation.

Too often, investigations conducted internally are undermined by perceptions of bias or by a lack of specialist expertise. Employees may feel that conclusions are predetermined, or that their concerns have not been taken seriously. Senior leaders may find themselves in situations where conflicts of interest are unavoidable. The result is an outcome that lacks credibility, increasing the risk of escalation to grievance, tribunal or even litigation. CMP provides corporate investigation services that remove these risks, delivering independence, rigour and professionalism at every stage.

The case for independence

An effective workplace investigation is one that is trusted by all parties involved. This trust depends above all on independence. An external investigator brings the necessary neutrality, ensuring that evidence is assessed on its merits and not through the lens of internal politics or organisational pressures.

By commissioning CMP, employers demonstrate a commitment to transparency and fairness. This reassurance matters. It not only strengthens confidence in the process among employees but also safeguards the organisation against allegations of bias or cover-up. In high-stakes cases, where reputations and careers may be on the line, the independence of an external investigator is the foundation of credibility.

Our approach

CMP’s investigation methodology is designed to be proportionate, trauma-informed and legally robust. Every case is scoped carefully at the outset to define the terms of reference, identify the relevant policies and ensure the approach aligns with the culture of the organisation. From there, our investigators carry out a structured process that combines sensitivity with thoroughness.

Private interviews are conducted with complainants, respondents and witnesses, giving each individual the opportunity to set out their perspective fully. Evidence is reviewed and analysed with care, from written correspondence and digital records to policy documents and witness statements. The process culminates in a clear, detailed report that sets out findings and the reasoning behind them, providing decision-makers with the confidence to act fairly and appropriately.

Our investigators are trained not only in employment law and best practice, but also in trauma-informed techniques that recognise the emotional impact of misconduct allegations. This ensures the process is handled with professionalism and empathy, minimising harm to those involved while maintaining the objectivity required of a formal investigation.

When to commission an external investigation

Some workplace issues can be addressed internally. Others, by their complexity or sensitivity, demand the independence and expertise of an external provider. CMP is often asked to step in where allegations involve senior personnel, where relationships between staff and management are already strained, or where internal teams lack the capacity to conduct a detailed and impartial investigation.

Organisations also rely on CMP in cases where the allegations are particularly serious — bullying, harassment, discrimination, fraud or misconduct that carries reputational or legal implications. In these circumstances, the need for a process that is not only fair but demonstrably fair is paramount. By engaging CMP, employers gain the assurance that the investigation will be beyond challenge in both process and outcome.

Experience and assurance

CMP is the UK’s leading provider of workplace investigations, with more than 30 years’ experience in supporting organisations across every sector. Our network of over 100 investigators allows us to respond quickly and with the right expertise, wherever the case arises. Each investigator is carefully selected for their ability to combine analytical rigour with the interpersonal skills required to manage sensitive matters.

Our clients include NHS Trusts, universities, local authorities, major corporations and charities. We are trusted to handle some of the most complex and high-profile cases, precisely because of our reputation for professionalism, discretion and fairness. Every investigation is backed by CMP’s dedicated quality assurance team, and all information is handled under our ISO27001-accredited systems, providing the highest level of security and confidentiality.

Why CMP?

Organisations choose CMP because of our scale, our independence and our proven record. We are distinctive in our ability to provide investigations that are rigorous and impartial while also being proportionate and humane. Our trauma-informed approach ensures that individuals feel respected throughout the process, without compromising the integrity of the findings.

With three decades of experience, a nationwide network of investigators and a reputation built on trust, CMP offers unrivalled capability in the field of workplace investigations. That is why leading organisations across the UK continue to rely on us when sensitive issues arise, knowing that our involvement will bring credibility, fairness and clarity to even the most challenging cases.

Begin the conversation

When misconduct or workplace disputes demand investigation, the way forward can be complex. CMP provides the expertise, neutrality and assurance that allow employers to act with confidence. With our corporate investigation services, you gain not only a reliable assessment of the facts, but also the reassurance that the process itself is fair, transparent and beyond challenge.