Dismissal

If you have worked for an employer for at least one calendar month, you have the right to notice if dismissed, except in cases of gross misconduct.

If you have worked for your employer for one year or more you have the right to written reasons for dismissal. Women who are pregnant or on maternity leave are entitled to written reasons without having worked for any particular length of time.

You can usually claim unfair dismissal only if you have had a job for a year or more, but there are exceptions if you have been discriminated against or been dismissed for asking for your legal rights. Employers should give you a letter saying what you have done wrong and hold a meeting, giving you a chance to defend yourself before dismissing you and let you appeal after. If you have been sacked or dismissed unfairly, get advice.

If you are disciplined at work, you have the right to be accompanied by a Trade Union representative or colleague.

You have the right to claim statutory redundancy pay if you are made redundant. You must have worked for the employer for two years.

If you have a problem with your employer that you might need to take to an Employment Tribunal you might get less compenstion if you haven’t tried to resolve it by raising a grievance with your employer first.

Your contract may give you better terms than the legal minimum. You have the right not to suffer any hardship or dismissal for ‘whistle blowing’ on a public concern at the workplace.