Screwed up completely, need some advice

[Fuckedupcompletely]

In short, messed up at work due to impaired judgement caused by mental health crisis which crept up on me.

Went through work's disciplinary procedure, showed that I was visiting Dr's, had medication, was doing therapy to avoid repeat performance and was expecting a written warning or final written warning with supervision for 6-12 months so that I could show that i was dealing with the issues that caused the poor judgement and the errors and could build trust back up.

Have now been told that I am to be dismissed, but I have been given the opportunity to hand in my notice and receive a factual reference stating the dates I worked and that I resigned.

Feels to me as though they have me over a barrel, they want me out and this way I get a good reference, but I'm disappointed that after 10 years with the same company, they aren't giving me the opportunity of a second chance, given that the issues were caused by illness.

I understand from acas that I can accept the dismissal and appeal but that my pay would stop from dismissal. Presumably if I handed in my notice, I would be paid my notice period? I need the money so I can't see that I have any choice in how I proceed.

Sorry for the multiple posts.

No previous disciplinary issues at all in 10 years.

It’s weird they would take such a drastic step with a long standing employee of good record. Has there been other performance related issues?

I’m struggling to see how this one off event is gross misconduct.

I agree that it's hard to see how they have classified it as GM. It's arguably more properly categorised as a performance issue. It sounds like they just want rid (sorry!) and/or are being poorly advised.

I agree this isn't a matter I would class as GM
If I was the disciplining manager in this situation I would see it more as performance capability and absolutely max written warning
Also has there ever been a referal made to occupational health? I think your employer needs to offer further guidance and detail why this is GM but if I were you would seek an appeal

From personal experience, if you resign and have a factual reference, this is easier to deal with when looking for a new job. You can just tell any future employer that you fancied a career change after so many years in the one place and the reference will confirm the dates.
If it is GM (and thats what happened to me), you will start worrying about when a future employer may find out about the GM, or when you should tell them. I was always upfront and told prospective employers what had happened, I was thanked for my honesty and then promptly not given the job (although sometimes there were better candidates and I had bad interviews). However, you just need a bit of luck and an employer who will recognise your qualities more than your one error, and they will then give you a chance. Good luck.