During the disciplinary hearing Alison admits to Joanne that she did tell Holly she would not change her break times just because Holly wanted to. Alison states that she does not think she has done anything wrong and does not remember swearing.

When Joanne asks about her tone of voice during the conversation, Alison admits she is loud, but that is her personality. Alison says she can’t remember if customers were there, but admits that if they were in the pharmacy, then they would have heard the conversation. Alison admits that she has been told before to be more respectful to colleagues.

A first written warning is issued:

After considering the evidence, Joanne decides a disciplinary sanction is appropriate. As Alison already has a live verbal warning for misconduct, Joanne decides that a first written warning should be issued. Joanne reconvenes the disciplinary hearing and informs Alison of her decision. Joanne confirms her decision in writing and notes that the first written warning is due to expire in one year on 23 February, that Alison has the right to appeal and any further acts of misconduct may result in further disciplinary action being taken.

There are no further incidents with Joanne for several months until she is five minutes late for work on 27 July. Julie speaks to Alison, who explains that the bus was late that morning. Julie decides on this occasion there is no need to refer Alison to a disciplinary hearing, as there has been a marked improvement in her timekeeping. Julie reminds Alison that while she is not taking any further action on this occasion, if it happens again disciplinary action may be taken. A note of the discussion is made and kept in Alison’s file.