Steady rise in employment tribunal cases by the public sector

The latest research has revealed that more public sector employees are involved in employment tribunal appeals, where 4 out of 10 appeals have concerned public workers. This figure is up around 24% in the last five years.

This figure is surprising considering that only 22% of the UK workforce are public sector workers.

The reason behind the research is speculative, but it is thought to be connected with the growing number of job losses in the public sector which has been a result of the cuts made by the Government. People are thinking they are unfairly dismissed from their job role and are seeking employment tribunal support to see if their case would hold up in a tribunal. The increase might also be down to employers asking for more from their staff with no increase in pay.

It is therefore forecast that the amount of public sector workers filing claims against their employers will continue to increase as yet more cuts are expected to take place over the next two years.

Principle of EMW Louise Holder said, “The public sector is already burdened by a disproportionately high number of employment claims and the problem could get worse as cost and efficiency savings are put in place….Many of these claims will be from public sector workers who have been made redundant. People are much more likely to bring unfair dismissal claims during tough economic conditions, particularly if they feel that their prospects of getting another job quickly are slim. With more public sector job cuts on the way, this could be the tip of the iceberg.”

Louise went on to confirm that more resentment might be created throughout the public sector as people are asked to work longer hours. This can be seen in the recent strike which teachers up and down the country took part in as a protest for their pensions being cut. The teachers’ union were protesting against higher pension contributions on a monthly basis, ultimately asking workers to continue working the same or longer hours for less pay and a smaller pension in the long run. Another strike is being planned for the autumn which highlights the stress and anger public sector workers are feeling at this time. Strikes are also being concerned for airlines, railway workers and civil servants who are also upset with the way the sector has been treated since the budget cuts hit.

For anyone considering an employment tribunal claim, it is vital you receive comprehensive employment law advice. Employment contracts advice is available online and through local law agencies that can guarantee support and information on how you claim would work if it was sent to the tribunal.