UK Recruitment Glossary
Unfair Dismissal
In recruiter context
Five fair reasons under UK law: capability (performance), conduct, redundancy, statutory restriction, or 'some other substantial reason'. Even with a fair reason, the employer must follow a fair process (Acas Code of Practice). Most unfair dismissals fail on procedure rather than reason. 2 years' service usually required to claim, but no qualifying period for automatically unfair dismissal (whistleblowing, discrimination, pregnancy-related, asserting statutory rights). Compensation is capped at the lower of 12 months' pay or £105,707 (2024-25) plus a basic award similar to statutory redundancy. Most cases settle before tribunal.
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