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Marked increase in claims by employees

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The Tribunals Service has published its annual statistics for 1 April 2009 to 31 March 2010.

The number of claims submitted by employees has increased 56% from the previous year. Admittedly a large part of this increase is accounted for by the rise in multiple claims (i.e. where more than one employee is suing the employer), up 90% from the previous year. Individual claims were up 14% from the previous year. This has resulted in an increased backlog of cases.

The most common types of claim in the Employment Tribunal were for unfair dismissal, unauthorised deductions from wages and breach of contract all of which increased in number from the previous year. Notably, claims for failure to inform and consult on redundancy were down by 65% from the previous year.

Of all the claims brought by employees, 32% were withdrawn by the employee, 31% were settled through Acas and nearly 13% were successful at tribunal.  These figures are nearly the same as for the previous year.  The report does not include information about awards and costs.

The increased number of claims doubtless reflects the fact many employers have shed staff during tough economic times.  It also shows employees are increasingly aware of their rights and are prepared to sue their employers.  As such it has never been more important for employers to ensure they have robust HR policies and procedures and take early advice in the event a claim is threatened by an employee.

If you would like any further information please contact the Employment team on 01254 258321


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