Quick question

[Semprini]

Originally Posted by Posh

It's illegal to give a *bad* reference

I keep seeing this mentioned, can someone link me to where it's confirmed that it isn't just an urban myth?

I find it ludicrous that they wouldn't be allowed to tell the truth. If you're a shit employee, so be it.

[endless psych]

Originally Posted by Semprini

I keep seeing this mentioned, can someone link me to where it's confirmed that it isn't just an urban myth?

I find it ludicrous that they wouldn't be allowed to tell the truth. If you're a shit employee, so be it.

They can be required to back it up with evidence though. I think the case is that you could upon receipt of a bad reference take it to task and sue for slander. On the other hand if they have a disciplinary file on you a mile wide then a bad reference is a distinct possibility.

[Posh]

It comes down to defamation of character, all that shit. I've seen references that *insinuate* though and references that just say 'Yes, they worked for us.' with no other comment which is a bit of a giveaway.

[Zenith]

your only obliged to give 1weeks statutory notice
if your not officially contracted

[Purplerose]

I'm sure I read somewhere that just turning up to work and the employer paying you for that work means you have agreed to the contract even if you've not seen anything in writing. You have the right to request to see a copy of the contract too.

If it was me, if I didn't need the reference I'd just leave, if I did need it I'd give a weeks notice.

[Rev Scapegoat]

Re: references, I'm sure the law simply states that anything stated in a reference must be factual. Most employers won't bother giving a bad reference, but if someone was a total arsehole at work, and the employers had proof, it'd be a bit unfair to not allow them to say so.

[Semprini]

"We're forbidden by law from giving shit employees bad references. With this in mind, we shall be saying nothing about Employee X."