When I did my management course, a few years ago now but don't think the law has changed, you could not give a bad reference. As Amme says you could refuse and this speaks volumes but could also mean that the person being sent the reference is bad at communicating and just doesn't follow it up which could look as though the employee was rubbish, which may not be the case. It really depends how well run the business is.
Personally I wouldn't give a reference direct to the employee. However, I have read your thread thoroughly and can fully appreciate why you did this. Plus a big hug from me as this has been a real nightmare for you.
When and if I need to write a reference it has to come direct from the employer and in writing. This way you have everything in black and white, no employee flipping out because they "think" you have verbally given a bad reference.
If an employee asked for one direct I would just advise that it is company policy to receive a reference request in writing from their new employer. I do not do references over the phone or give them to employees direct.
I like to keep things on file and verbal conversations you can't.
Hope this helps
Personally I wouldn't give a reference direct to the employee. However, I have read your thread thoroughly and can fully appreciate why you did this. Plus a big hug from me as this has been a real nightmare for you.
When and if I need to write a reference it has to come direct from the employer and in writing. This way you have everything in black and white, no employee flipping out because they "think" you have verbally given a bad reference.
If an employee asked for one direct I would just advise that it is company policy to receive a reference request in writing from their new employer. I do not do references over the phone or give them to employees direct.
I like to keep things on file and verbal conversations you can't.
Hope this helps