Stop.....Companies have not been allowed to sack employees since around 1999.
What I mean is 'sack on the spot'
If the SJ staff were made redundant with no notice, That is still classed as a 'sacking on the spot'
If the SJ management said something like, I am very sorry to tell you you are being given a month's notice on full pay - then that is within employment law even if the agreement is not in writing.
But to say to someone your contract has ended on the spot,And no notice given Is a breach of employment law.
In a previous life I worked for a Leading Solicitors in Leeds.
And that is what I learnt about employment law, Although I wasn't an actual solicitor just a Solicitor/fee earner's Assistant.
By the sound of what SJ have done today, It could be a case for a tribunal??
So SJ Management watch out - You have just dug yourself a 'deeper' grave.