I would stop thinking about how other people have been treated through the investigation etc as there is case law that demonstrates that people can be treated differently if there is a reasonable explanation for doing so. I dont see any way around this other than to be honest, apologetic and try for a very basic reference. However you have stolen, you have by the sound of things encouraged others to do the same and you need to take the consequences and move on. Resigning wont help because your reference could say that you resigned whilst under investigation for theft.

Please calm down and think rationally. The only person you are going to hurt is yourself. The company seem to have dealt with the issue. You need to move on and put it behind you otherwise you will find yourself being fairly dismissed.

I absolutely agree that you should meet with them with a view to going back to work when you can. The longer you are off, the more difficult it will be to return. It is normal practice to meet up when people are off sick for a few reasons: to find out how you are; to see what can be done to help; and to try and facilitate a return to work. Attend with a positive mindset and see what happens.

Your sister should get a copy of all documentation that is to be taken into account prior to the hearing, giving sufficient time for her to consider the contents and prepare.

As there is no charge for this car park, and I was not parked there for more than 3 hours during shop opening times, they surely cannot claim any material loss. Would that be right?

Also, I don't know whether it makes any difference, but this is a free car park - there is no charge for under 3 hours.

Hi I parked overnight 26 Oct 12 to 27 Oct 12 and their letter is dated 1 Nov 12.

Will they be able to take me to court / send bailiffs in etc?

Hi I parked in a Parking Eye car park whilst going to the cinema opposite. The maximum stay was 3 hours (although I didn't know this until receiving my parking fine). It was a Friday night at 20:42 when I left my car there. The car park closed at 22:00 (although, again, I didn't know until later). When I returned to my car, the car park was locked and I could not remove my car until the next morning. I returned at 08:42 the next morning. The car park opened at 5am (I noticed on my return in the morning) but the shops did not open until 9am. My car was not using up any parking space during opening hours and no one else could enter the car park / require my space in that time. I didn't see the signs saying that the car park would be locked, nor that the maximum stay was 3 hours. They are now trying to charge me £85. Help! What do I need to do?