FAQs

How do I manage an unfair dismissal claim?

  1. Follow Procedure: Ensure that the dismissal followed a fair process, including investigation, warnings, and opportunities for improvement.
  2. Document Everything: Keep detailed records of performance issues, warnings, and any meetings or communications.
  3. Provide Reasoning: Be clear about the reasons for dismissal, ensuring they are valid and consistent with company policies.
  4. Offer Appeal: Allow the employee to appeal the decision if they disagree.
  5. Seek Legal Advice: Consult with an employment lawyer to understand your obligations and prepare for potential claims.
  6. Settlement or Tribunal: Consider negotiating a settlement or preparing for an Employment Tribunal hearing if the claim proceeds.

Ensuring fairness and proper documentation is key to defending an unfair dismissal claim.

For free managers guides and templates  –  Disciplinary & Grievance Guide and support templates (Support section)  👉 – https://breathingspacehr.co.uk/how-to-hr/

Go back to FAQs

Other questions we get asked about Support

Support

HR admin takes too much time. How can we streamline it?

Adopt an HRIS for leave, records, and documents; standardise templates; and automate onboarding/offboarding checklists and reminders.  Call Breathing Space as we provide Admin support!

Read more
Support

Can we dismiss quickly during probation?

Probation allows faster decisions but still requires a fair process: concerns explained, a chance to respond, notice/pay handled correctly, and care taken to avoid discrimination.

Read more
Support

Can I dismiss someone who has a disability?

Yes, you can dismiss someone with a disability, but only if there is a fair reason, such as misconduct or capability issues, and after considering reasonable adjustments. Dismissal must not be related to the disability itself, to avoid discrimination claims. For free managers guides and templates  –  Supporting Disabilities support  (Support section)  👉 – https://breathingspacehr.co.uk/how-to-hr/

Read more
Support

Do I have to give bank holidays to an employee who doesn’t work on a Monday?

Yes By law, part-time employees and workers are protected from being treated less favourably than a full-time ‘comparator’. The law is the Part-time Workers (Prevention of Less Favourable Treatment) Regulations 2000.  The bank holiday allowance should be pro rata  (proportioned into hours worked) and added to their holiday allowance. For free managers guides and templates  […]

Read more
Support

We’re a start-up with nothing in place. What’s legally essential?

Written employment contracts, core policies (disciplinary, grievance, absence, equality, data protection), Ro-work checks, payroll and auto-enrolment, Basic H&S, and compliant onboarding. Add a staff handbook as you grow.

Read more
Support

If an employee is sick during their notice period do I pay SSP or normal pay?

You pay normal pay if the employee is off sick and unable to work during their notice period.

Read more

Not found what you’re looking for? See our other categories

Employment Rights Act 2025 Explainer Download Now
Book a free consultation