Newcastle Employers Are Turning to Professional Surveillance for HR Investigations
- siassuk
- May 15
- 3 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
Why Are Newcastle Employers Are Turning to Professional Surveillance for HR Investigations?
In today’s complex employment landscape, HR departments in Newcastle upon Tyne and across the North East face growing challenges in managing workplace issues. Whether it’s unexplained absences, misconduct, or suspected breaches of company policy, employers often need more than hearsay or internal reports to act confidently.
That’s where discreet, professional surveillance can play a critical role. At SIASS - Newcastle, we work closely with HR professionals, company directors, and business owners to gather solid, lawful evidence that helps support fair and informed decisions.
Uncovering the Facts in a Safe and Legal Way
There are many scenarios in which employers may feel additional information is needed to take appropriate action. For example:
An employee regularly calls in sick, yet there’s reason to believe they may be working elsewhere or undertaking physical tasks that contradict their stated condition.
Tools, stock, or materials are disappearing from the premises without explanation.
There are concerns that employees are breaching health and safety regulations behind closed doors, despite outward compliance.
In these and other cases, relying solely on internal reporting can be risky. Acting on suspicion alone might lead to legal disputes or employment tribunals. However, when supported by robust, professionally gathered evidence, businesses in Newcastle can take action with confidence.
The Value of Engaging External Experts
Attempting to carry out covert surveillance in-house is not only ill-advised, it can be unlawful. UK legislation, including GDPR and the Human Rights Act, imposes strict rules around employee monitoring. That’s why it’s vital to engage trained investigators who understand how to conduct surveillance legally and ethically.
At SIASS, our operatives:
Use proportionate and compliant surveillance methods tailored to each case.
Understand and apply both civil and criminal evidentiary standards.
Work discreetly to avoid disrupting operations or creating mistrust within the workforce.
Provide detailed, clear reports that can be used in internal HR processes or formal legal proceedings.
We’ve assisted businesses across Newcastle and the wider Tyne and Wear region to resolve workplace issues swiftly and professionally — helping to avoid reputational damage and costly legal challenges.
What Types of HR Investigations Can We Help With?
Our team supports a broad spectrum of workplace-related investigations, including:
Employee misconduct
Workplace theft or dishonesty
False injury or sickness claims
Health and safety breaches
Harassment and bullying complaints
Whistleblowing follow-ups
Internal fraud or conflicts of interest
No two investigations are the same. We take the time to understand the background and objectives before recommending an approach. Whether it’s covert video surveillance, background checks, or employee lifestyle observations, our aim is always to gather meaningful, admissible evidence.
Enhancing Fairness and Minimising Risk
Hiring an independent investigator demonstrates fairness and transparency — two qualities essential to any successful HR process. Involving a neutral third party not only helps protect your business from claims of bias but also reassures staff that issues are being dealt with appropriately.
Some employers may already have internal teams handling parts of an investigation. We’re happy to work collaboratively — managing the more sensitive elements while your HR team handles other areas. This flexible approach can reduce costs while still ensuring evidence stands up to scrutiny.
Trusted by Newcastle Businesses
Our work has enabled numerous employers in Newcastle upon Tyne to resolve difficult situations without the risk of wrongful dismissal or tribunal claims. In some cases, our evidence has supported immediate disciplinary action. In others, it has helped businesses avoid proceeding down the wrong path altogether.
When the stakes are high, guesswork is not enough. Proper evidence, gathered professionally and lawfully, is essential for protecting your organisation, your reputation, and your team.
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