Do I have the right to be accompanied at an investigation meeting?

The statutory right to be accompanied under section 10 of the Employment Relations Act 1999 applies to disciplinary and grievance hearings, not investigation meetings. Many employers still allow a companion, and it is often worth asking in writing.

Can I refuse to attend?

Refusing to attend can itself become a disciplinary issue. It is usually better to attend, keep answers factual and short, and raise any concerns about fairness in writing before or immediately after the meeting.

Will what I say be used against me?

Yes. Investigation notes and statements are almost always relied upon at any later disciplinary hearing or tribunal claim. This is why preparation matters more than reacting to the outcome.

Investigation Meeting at Work: Your Rights and How to Prepare

An investigation meeting is a fact-finding stage, not a disciplinary hearing. Everything you say is recorded and can be used later, so preparation is far more effective than trying to challenge the outcome after the fact.