dissmissed for bringing the company into disrepute

[amoss]

Hi,

Recently I was dismissed for gross misconduct by bringing the company into disrepute.

The was caused by a taxi company making a complaint to my employer about me. After a work night out a taxi took me home during the ride due to my car sickness I was sick in the car. I was also alleged to be abusive and disrespectful to the driver.

During the disciplinary hearing I made it clear that I was happy to pay for the damages due to the sickness and apologized for any damage caused to the driver. However I disputed that I was not abusive and disrespectful and that the fine given to the company was over the top and therefore it appeared the taxi company were trying to justify the fine by giving false other reasons.

Without notice a second meeting was convened where I was told about my dismissal. I am now at a stage of appeal.

I am completely shocked and think this is really unfair. Can anyone provide advice in this situation, would really be appreciated.

Thanks

Ross

 

[TotallySport]

how long have you worked for them? Also who rang and paid for the taxi?

 

[strikingedge]

Were you drunk?

 

[arcon5]

So basically you drunk to much and threw up in the taxi.

In such circumstances id expect you to be liable for cleaning costs. Plus loss of earnings for the driver and car owner if it had to be taken off the road for the rest of the night. So typically could be anything from £60-£150 depending on the time of night and where you are.

 

[amoss]

They were serving drinks that night and I did have a few. The frustrating thing is that I was not drunk. I just get car sickness and the alcohol may have contributed.

The comments from the taxi company did not mention I was drunk either just unwell.

I have worked for the company for 8 months now and have never displayed abusive behaviour.

The cab was arranged by the company. Hence the "bringing the company to disrepute" comes from.

 

[Paul_Rosser]

With only 8 months service they could have simply terminated your employment without having to go down the disciplinary route.

Go to the appeal, tell them how sorry you are but if they still decide to let you go then not a lot you can do as you haven't been there long enough to look at a claim for unfair dismissal.

 

[amoss]

Thank you for you help.