DHHS encourages open and effective communication between an employee and supervisor. All employees are encouraged to resolve problems through informal discussion with appropriate staff members or management. This section works with employees and management to develop and maintain harmonious and effective working relationships throughout the department.

For more information on the steps for filing an employee grievance in DHHS, first contact your division/institution employee relations specialist or Human Resources manager. Information is also available through the Employee Relations office in Raleigh. (See contacts page for HR office contact information.)

Employee Relations oversees:

• Employee grievance policy (DHHS Directive III-8)
• Employee relations policy
• Performance rating dispute process (DHHS Directive III-9)
• Guidelines for release of employee information
• Political activities (Personnel Directive 6)
• Reinstatement from dismissal policy
• Employee harassment complaints
• Disciplinary action guidelines
• Disciplinary action and grievance guidelines for DHHS educators
• Petitions for contested case hearings
• Discrimination charges
• State and federal lawsuits
• Unemployment insurance program