Grounds for dismissal?

[Throwaway94]

So, I've been suspended. I'm over a decade in RM.

Last week I brought back some mail (maybe a dozen letters, and a recorded packet) when I couldn't get into the buildings. When I got back to the office there was a backlog of work to be done, so in my haste I forgot to endorse them as inaccessible.

The next day I was pulled up for not endorsing those letters, and also not delivering other mail from that day. I put my hands up to the ones that I brought back, but the others I genuinely have no idea where they came from.

I don't really want to give too many details, for obvious reasons. I'd gladly share over a PM.

I'm pretty worried, I think I'm for the chop. Do I have a leg to stand on?

[TrueBlueTerrier]

Have a word with your rep, be honest and upfront and you should be okay, as it appears as Unintentional rather than anything worse:

From the Conduct code: (copies in Downloads)

Delay to mail can be treated as:

• Unintentional delay
• Unexcused delay
• Intentional delay

Unintentional delay Royal Mail Group recognises that genuine mistakes and misunderstandings do occur and it is not our intention that such cases should be dealt with under the Conduct Policy beyond informal discussions for the isolated instance.

Unexcused delay Various actions can cause mail to be delayed, for example carelessness or negligence leading to loss or delay of customers’ mail, or breach or disregard of a standard or guideline. Such instances are to be distinguished from intentional delay (see below), although they may also be treated as misconduct and dealt with under the Conduct Policy, outcomes may range from an informal discussion to dismissal.

Intentional delay Intentional delay of mail is classed as gross misconduct which, if proven, could lead to dismissal. The test to determine whether actions may be considered as intentional delay, is whether the action taken by the employee was knowingly deliberate, with an intention to delay mail. Where proven, such breaches of conduct can lead to dismissal, even for a first offence; indeed intentional delay is a criminal offence and can result in prosecution.

In the interview be guided by your rep but if you own up to cocking up and take it on the chin, it won't happen again etc, I think you'll be fine.

[rubberbond]

Haven't they overreacted somewhat?

[UnhappyGremlin]

Haven't they overreacted somewhat?

Yes.
But all managers see is the potential for a feather in their cap for getting someone the sack.