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I insulted some colleagues in writing but was not advised that any disciplinary action would be taken. I have now been suspended. Can my employers go back on their decision, two months later?
Two months ago I made written comments regarding colleagues at work that were considered to be offensive. I admit that my actions were unprofessional. I discussed the issue with a manager, on a one to one basis, and was advised that what I had done was wrong but I was not advised that they were following any type of formal disciplinary process as a result. I have now been suspended from work following further complaints against me made by the same group of colleagues. I have yet to receive a letter from HR detailing exactly what I am accused of doing and exactly why I have been suspended. Is my employer entitled to now say that I should have been formally disciplined for the previous indiscretion? They did not choose to formally discipline me at the time of the incident, can they go back on their decision now, two months on?
If the employees you were unwise enough to insult in writing have put in a formal complaint or grievance about you then I'm afraid your employer has a legal duty to formally investigate the complaint regardless of any one to one discussion you have had.
In due course you will receive a letter inviting you to an investigative interview.
At the investigative interview if it turns out to be over this incident then you should request a meeting with those you insulted and apologise to them.
Then - but not immediately afterwards - request to your employer that you can move on from this incident.
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