A brewery has suspended a number of employees from one of its pubs in Gedling after ‘racist and homophobic language’ was allegedly used in a staff WhatsApp private group chat.
Castle Rock issued a statement on their social media channels saying they were now investigating the alleged incident involving a number of employees at The Willowbrook pub on Main Road.
In the statement posted this evening (January 3), the brewery said: “A senior executive meeting took place this morning. We can confirm that multiple individuals have been suspended and other employees at the site in question are under investigation.
“Many are demanding immediate dismissal of the employees involved in this incident. However, the UK has strict employment laws and we must follow the process these set out.
“This investigation is complicated by the number of employees who may be involved. Subsequently, the investigation will likely take a number of days. We assure you it is being treated with the utmost importance.”
“We ask our customers, employees and those that have been affected or upset by this incident to allow us some time to address the issues and manage the investigation in accordance with the law and best practice. We will continue to update you wherever we are able.
“We send heartfelt apologies to our colleagues and customers.”
In an earlier statement they confirmed they had been in contact with those making the allegations.
The brewery said: “We have spoken with the individuals who reported it and will continue to work closely with them over the coming days.
“This particular exchange may form part of a larger investigation, due to further accusations made. We will always be as transparent and open as possible about the steps we are taking.”
I have witnessed awful bullying from a supervisor towards new staff, that I had to say something. This poor individual was actually in tears over this and her supervisor did nothing but treat her like a dog in front of customers.
I wad verbally attacked by this supervisor for asking the girl if she was ok.
That day several people walked out of the pub because of this individual. How and why this person was chosen to be in this position is beyond me.
I’ve certainly never seen such contempt for customers in any pub before. Something needs to change.