I have been placed on suspension at work!?

Question

I live in the UK, I have been placed on suspension at work due to somebody spreading rumours that are'nt true and can not be proved. If i go on the sick can they still hold a meeting about the disciplinary in my absence.???

Answer 1

No, they would have to wait a reasonable amount of time for you to recover, before calling you in for the meeting. But in the long run, I'm not sure that is the best solution.

The process will be that they meet with you to hear your side of what has happened, you have a right to be given any evidence that they have concerning the allegations so that you can properly respond. You can also call your own witnesses. If they haven't told you that you have the right to bring someone with you, well you do - a work colleague or Trade Union representative normally.

After the meeting, they will make a decision regarding any disciplinary sanction.

You don't say exactly why they have suspended you, its normally only for very serious things that they are considering dismissal for. They will have to have more evidence than just rumours to substantiate it.

If you have any more questions about the process, feel free to email me. And have a look at the ACAS website, they have lots of good advice.

Answer 2

They can hold a meeting to discuss the disciplinary matter without you being there, but at some point they will have to stage a hearing with you present (or least give you the opportunity to be present and/or give your side of the story). You could go 'on the sick' if you like, but this is only delaying the process - you can't go off sick indefinitely (well, unless you want to be dismissed on the groups of incapacity!)
I always ask this question, but, are you in a union? If you are I would strongly advise you to contact your local branch a.s.a.p.
If not - BIG mistake mate. You can go into the meeting with a 'witness' - but that is all they can be.

Answer 3

I think they can probably hold a meeting about the disciplinary although the disciplinary cannot take place without you. I dont know if you are aware but when you have a disciplinary, you are able to take someone with you into the meeting although it cannot be anyone connected with case.

Answer 4

You have nothing to lose but a job you have probably already been manuvered out of. Take the position that the people who brought the problem to management are suspect in this crime of slander and cannot substantiate their claims with any evidence.
If you can convince management to investigate two levels deeper than the superficial they are expected to stop at, they may find the conspiracy that you suspect. After all, the obvious reason they want you out of your job is to create a foothold in the company for themselves.

Answer 5

I hope so. Anyone who "goes on the sick" when he's not sick is clearly dishonest, and deserves to be suspended. No, maybe instead you deserve to be fired.

If the rumors are really untrue, you should be anxious to go to the meeting to clear the air. Instead, it sounds like you're avoiding it, which makes you look very guilty. I wouldn't want you working in my firm.

Answer 6

No a disciplinary must be held in your presence, and a hearing can not be held while you have reported sick

Answer 7

Speak to a union rep if you can. Dont go on the sick unless you are actually sick. Check your rights as an employee with the dti http://www.dti.gov.uk/employment/trade-union-rights/trade-unions/grievance-hearings/page16831.html

Also you can speak to acas and take action against the employer. http://www.acas.org.uk/index.aspx?articleid=341

Answer 8

Unless the UK is really screwed up with labor laws, you're not telling us the whole story mate.
.

Answer 9

What are the rumours exactly? That would help in answering your question.

Answer 10

maybe. depends on your company policy.