Disciplinary hearing advice needed

[Mgb27]

Hi

After some advice please. I was invited to an investigation meeting by my employers in August to face allegations of breach of code of conduct and safe guarding policy. It is also alleged that I acted in an unprofessional manner by discussing confidential information with the young people.
I have denied these and have my side of the story at the investigation.

This weekend I received a letter inviting me to a disciplinary hearing thIs week. In the letter they mention gross misconduct and dismissal. The investigation meeting meeting were inaccurate which I have emailed them about and also how have I been left to work in the same home with the same same people if they are looking to dismiss me on the grounds of safeguarding? Also would it be better for me to resign?

Any advice appreciated, many thanks .

[ULA]

How long have you been employed there?

In the letter have they set out the detail of the allegations and provided copies of any evidence they will be relying on at the disciplinary meeting. If not then you need to make sure you are provided with these in advance of the meeting as you will need time to go through them in order to prepare your defence. In addition I hope that you have been advised of your right to be accompanied.

If you are thinking of resigning to avoid the meeting they could still go ahead with the disciplinary and if it did lead to a finding of gross misconduct they could summarily dismiss you without giving notice. Meaning that whatever of your notice period remained would not count you would be dismissed immediately. Alternatively you could offer to resign and see if this would lead to them dropping the meeting.

I think this whole point will depend on how robust you believe you can defend the allegations and avoid being dismissed.

[Mgb27]

Sorry I have been there just over 2 years. They have followed the correct procedures and provided me with their evidence and told me I can take a representative with me.

I think I can defend myself well but I have been told once they make their mind up that’s it so I don’t think it is going to help. I am sick with worry.

Thanks

[ULA]

Once they make any decision in regard to disciplinary action, if they do decide to take any action, you will have the right to appeal, as the final part of the process.

[Moonpig_99]

Before the Disciplinary Hearing, I would provide written representations and submit these at least 24 hours before the hearing starts. It is likely that this isn't contained within the invite letter, but you do have a right to do this. Some people find this easier rather than saving everything for the Disciplinary Hearing - only because, the conversation verbally can go off-track and sometimes you miss key points that you want to get across.

As stated by Ula, you will have the right to appeal the decision if you think it is incorrect.

Good luck.

I work in HR and specialise in Employee Relations and provide advice/guidance on UK Employment Law. I am not a Solicitor or legally qualified and any advice I provide on here does not constitute legal advice.