Are You Facing a Disciplinary at Work? A Guide for Wigan Employees

Facing a disciplinary meeting at work can feel scary and unfair—especially if you’ve given years to your job in Wigan’s warehouses, shops, factories, or offices. You might worry about losing your role, damaging your reputation, or not knowing your rights. The good news? You’re not powerless. At MBH Solicitors, we’ve helped hundreds of Wigan workers through disciplinary processes with clear advice and strong support. We’re a local law firm based right here in Wigan, and we’re on your side.

This plain-English guide explains what happens in a disciplinary, your rights under UK law, and how to protect yourself—whether you’re in logistics, retail, manufacturing, or any Wigan workplace.

What Is a Disciplinary at Work?

A disciplinary is a formal process your employer uses when they believe you’ve broken rules or underperformed. It could be about:

• Misconduct: Lateness, poor attitude, or breaking health and safety rules.
• Gross Misconduct: Theft, violence, or serious breaches that could lead to instant dismissal.
• Capability: Not meeting performance targets despite support.

Your employer must follow a fair process under the ACAS Code of Practice. If they don’t, any outcome—like a warning or dismissal—could be unfair, and you may have grounds to challenge it.

Your Rights During a Disciplinary in Wigan

UK law protects you. Here’s what you’re entitled to:

• Written Notice - Your employer must tell you in writing what the allegation is, with enough detail and evidence. They should give you time to prepare—usually at least 48 hours.
• The Right to Be Accompanied - You can bring a colleague or trade union rep to any formal meeting. (Note: You can’t bring a solicitor unless your contract allows it—but MBH Solicitors can advise you beforehand.)
• A Fair Investigation - Your employer must investigate properly—speaking to witnesses, gathering evidence, and staying impartial. Rushing or relying on gossip? That’s not fair.
• A Chance to Respond - At the disciplinary hearing, you get to explain your side, present evidence, and challenge theirs.
• The Right to Appeal - If you get a warning or are dismissed, you can appeal in writing. This is a fresh review by someone senior who wasn’t involved before.

Common Disciplinary Issues in Wigan Workplaces

We see these a lot in Wigan:

• Attendance problems in shift-based logistics or retail jobs.
• Performance targets in call centres or factories that feel unrealistic. 
• Social media posts criticised by employers—even outside work hours. 
• Minor mistakes blown out of proportion during busy periods.

If the process feels rushed, biased, or the punishment too harsh, it may not be lawful.

What Should You Do If You’re Called to a Disciplinary Meeting?

Don’t panic. Follow these steps:

• Read the Letter Carefully - Note the allegations, date, time, and your right to be accompanied.
• Prepare Your Defence - Gather evidence: emails, rotas, witness statements, or proof of illness. Write down your version of events.
• Get Advice Early - Call MBH Solicitors before the meeting. We’ll help you understand the allegations, spot weak points in their case, and prepare strong responses.
• Stay Calm and Professional - At the hearing, listen, answer clearly, and avoid getting emotional. Take notes.
• Appeal If Needed - If the outcome feels wrong, appeal within the deadline (usually 5 working days).

When Is a Disciplinary Unfair?

You might have a claim for unfair treatment or unfair dismissal if:

• The investigation was biased or incomplete.
• The punishment doesn’t fit the issue (e.g., sacking for one late shift).
• They didn’t follow their own policy or ACAS guidelines.
• You’re being targeted due to protected characteristics (age, gender, disability, etc.).

If dismissed, you may be able to claim unfair dismissal at a tribunal.

How MBH Solicitors Can Help Wigan Employees

We’re not just lawyers—we’re local employment specialists based in Wigan. We’ve supported workers from industrial estates to town centre shops. Here’s how we help:

• Free Initial Chat: We review your case with no obligation. 
• Meeting Prep: We can help you build a strong defence and draft responses.
• Negotiation: We often resolve issues without tribunal by challenging unfair processes. 
• Tribunal Representation: If needed, we fight for compensation—many cases settle early.

Facing a disciplinary in Wigan? Don’t go it alone.

Call MBH Solicitors today on 01942 206060 or book a free consultation online. We’ll explain your rights in plain English and can stand with you every step of the way.

Final Thoughts: Take Control of Your Workplace Future

A disciplinary doesn’t have to end your career. With the right preparation and support, you can challenge unfair treatment and protect your job—or secure a fair exit if needed.

Don’t wait until it’s too late. Early advice makes all the difference.

Contact MBH Solicitors in Wigan now:

📩 mbh@wigansolicitors.com
📞 01942 206060