Certified Workplace Investigation Manager
This hybrid course combines pre-reading via our distance learning platform with a 3 day, classroom-based programme. Learners will explore key concepts in advance to prepare for interactive, scenario-based sessions, gaining a solid foundation in fair, effective, and legally robust workplace investigations.
What You’ll Learn
Assessment Methods
What You’ll Learn
Workplace Investigation Standards: Develop a strong understanding of key principles, policies, and frameworks that support fair and effective investigations.
Legal and Regulatory Compliance: Explore relevant legislation and organisational responsibilities, ensuring investigations are legally sound and procedurally robust.
Investigation Essentials: Build expertise in planning and conducting investigations, including evidence gathering, interviewing, analysis, and reporting.
Certification
Assessment Methods
What You’ll Learn
On successful completion of the course, you'll receive two certificates:
1) The Certified Workplace Investigation Manager (CWIM®) certificate issued by Oakwood Risk Training, which is provided on successful completion of the course.
2) The Award in Workplace Investigations at QLS Level 5 – issued by our independent awarding body, the Skills and Education Group (The Quality Licence Scheme).
Assessment Methods
Assessment Methods
Assessment Methods
As part of the course, you will take part in two observed interview sessions designed to develop and assess your practical interviewing skills in realistic scenarios. One interview will involve engaging with a witness, focusing on techniques for building rapport, gathering accurate information, and ensuring reliability. The second will involve interviewing a suspect, requiring you to apply more advanced skills such as managing resistance, maintaining control of the conversation, and working within legal and ethical boundaries. Both sessions will be observed by an experienced assessor who will provide detailed feedback to support your development and ensure you meet the required standards of competence and professionalism.
Course Content
Day 1: Foundations of Workplace Investigations
The Role of the Investigator and Investigation Manager
- Purpose and scope of workplace investigations
- Roles, responsibilities, and key competencies
Types of Workplace Investigations
- HR and conduct-related cases (e.g. grievance, bullying, harassment)
- Health and safety incidents
- Security breaches and misconduct
- Whistleblowing and regulatory concerns
Legal and Regulatory Context
- Employment law essentials
- Equality, diversity, and inclusion considerations
- Organisational policies and frameworks
Planning an Investigation
- Scoping and defining terms of reference
- Risk and impact assessment
- Investigation plans and setting timelinesRisk identification, assessment, and mitigation strategies
Day 2: Investigative Process and Techniques
Evidence Gathering
- Types of evidence (documentary, physical, digital, testimonial)
- Record keeping and chain of custody
Interviewing Skills
- Planning and preparing interviews
- Conducting effective, unbiased interviews
- Managing difficult conversations
Decision-Making and Analysis
- Weighing evidence fairly
- Applying the balance of probabilities
Day 3: Reporting, Outcomes and Governance
Reporting Findings
- Structuring investigation reports
- Writing clear, impartial, and factual conclusions
- Recommendations and outcomes
Post-Investigation Actions
- Supporting disciplinary or remedial processes
- Lessons learned and organisational improvement
Governance and Quality Assurance
- Oversight, audits, and reviewing investigations
- Maintaining confidentiality and data protection
Scenario-Based Exercise: End-to-end investigation simulation (select from HR, H&S, or security-based case study)
Course Wrap-Up and Next Steps
- Review and reflection
- Certification assessment (if applicable)
- Individual action planning
Course Length
In Person Only Course
The in-person course is delivered over 3 consecutive days, with sessions running from 9:00am to 5:00pm each day.
Before attending, students will be given access to a short distance learning module, designed to introduce the course content and key principles. This preparatory module is expected to take no more than 5–6 hours to complete.