Polonious suggests that you think of these 10 points before you go any further... there is a right way to do everything.
- Do you really need to sack this person?
- Have procedures in place and understood.
- Have there been warnings?
- Hold a meeting.
- Make the decision and allow for an appeal.
- Be fair at all times.
- Don't assume that you are in the right.
- Tell the employee his/her rights.
- Be aware of protected people.
- Recognize grey areas.
(with acknowledgement to Daily Mail, UK)
More detail available on request.