References after dismissal for gross misconduct?

[johnk]

I'm currently preparing to start the hunt for a new job due to a recent incident involving my employer. I am facing a disciplinary hearing for some inexcusable conduct. I took a joint (cannabis + tobacco cigarette) to work in my bag one day, and after finishing and getting changed, smoked it outside. My manager picked up on this and wanted to know where I had all of a sudden gotten cannabis from after leaving the building. Possession of drugs on our company premises' is considered an act of gross misconduct.

I have been completely honest as there is no way I could hide what I have done and fully expect to be dismissed. I have been with my company just shy of two years and have had no issues previously. Still, I will state my case and show a lot of remorse and show that I realize the severity of my actions.

What is the best way for me to approach prospective employers in terms of a reference from my current company? My staff handbook states "It is our standard policy to provide only dates of employment and job title when requested. Only authorised HRSSC staff may do so." Are they bound to this by contract with me? Are they likely to disclose why my employment was terminated? Very foolish actions on my behalf.

Thank you for your help, and I kindly ask that you do not judge me for what I have done.

[Kati]

Re: References after dismissal for gross misconduct?

Hi [MENTION=54380]johnk[/MENTION], and welcome to LB.

I know you will get good advice off many of the Beagles here ... and I (for one) wouldn't dream of judging you on something like this (which could have been a one-off occurance for all we know anyway). You have shown remorse and have accepted the consequences - and hopefully have learnt from your mistake
Kati x

[MissFM]

Re: References after dismissal for gross misconduct?

Hi johnk

I'm not an expert (at all) but while-u-wait - it's my understanding that references these days are more or less always confined to simple statements of employment dates, and I don't think you need to worry too much.

You naughty boy :hippiex

[FlamingParrot]

Re: References after dismissal for gross misconduct?

What is the best way for me to approach prospective employers in terms of a reference from my current company? My staff handbook states "It is our standard policy to provide only dates of employment and job title when requested. Only authorised HRSSC staff may do so." Are they bound to this by contract with me? Are they likely to disclose why my employment was terminated? Very foolish actions on my behalf.

That is common policy with many companies, to avoid being drawn into arguments and potential lawsuits one way or other. It's unlikely they would reveal the full circumstances of your termination, especially since you didn't really cause them any trouble, it's not like you turned up for work stoned and did something stupid.

Thank you for your help, and I kindly ask that you do not judge me for what I have done.

We're not here to judge, we leave that to the courts. :juge:

We all make mistakes now and again! :thumb: