Hi all

Someone I know worked in a bar, and had to take time off as their mother in law passed away. The member of staff called their boss 3hrs before they were due to start work and let them know that they wouldn't be able to make work as they needed to be there for her children.

The person in question then went into work today, did their usual shift and was then taken to one side after the shift had finished and was dismissed on the spot. The employer claimed that the employee "was a good worker, but she feels she lets her boss down"

There was never any official contract drawn up between employee and employer. The employee has worked there for about 18 months.

Is what has happened above legal? Does the employer not have to give the employer a set time of notice?

Any help greatly appreciated...