My employer says that they are conducting a fact-finding exercise into alleged misconduct under the disciplinary rules. What should I do?

Finding out the relevant facts is an important responsibility for any employer before interviewing an employee about any alleged misconduct. Employees should be made aware of any complaint against them and, where possible, of any relevant evidence, before any subsequent disciplinary hearing takes place so they can adequately prepare.

All workers now have a legal right to be accompanied by a work colleague or trade union official at a disciplinary hearing. This right applies whether or not your employer recognises a trade union.

There is a helpful and free leaflet from the TUC You are not alone. It is available on the web or from the know your rights line 0870 600 4882 (national rate, 8am-10pm).