Greater awareness of employer obligations – and equality, diversity and discrimination issues –has led to a 40% increase in the number of claims made at UK employment tribunals, according to figures released by Acas (the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service). The conciliatory organisation announced that 40,000 claims were lodged in the 12 months to 31 March 2019.
Why are Employment tribunals more common?
The reasons behind this increase are complex but include the power of the internet and social media. Having 24-hour access to information has served to make people more aware of their rights, and more confident about “fighting their corner”. The growth in Tribunal claims may also be influenced by the economic climate. Times of austerity could be inspiring a greater determination to tackle unfair dismissal, redundancy and breach of contract issues. The increased willingness to seek redress through Employment Tribunals is also thought to be due to the abolition of tribunal fees, a decision made by the Supreme Court in 2017.
Court pressure up
Whatever the reasons, the rising numbers of tribunal cases for work-related disputes are putting the system under considerable pressure and HM Courts & Tribunals Service is struggling to meet the demand. This has led to an upturn in tribunal judge recruitment to try to keep pace but the current demand means that cases are taking longer to be heard leaving claimants and employers in limbo whilst they wait for a tribunal slot. This makes it even more important to seek help to settle employment tribunal claims as swiftly and successfully as possible.
Self or professional representation?
Bother employees and employers can represent themselves in the proceedings. However, specialist assistance can assist in bringing about a resolution more quickly and with less stress. Also, there are strict limits to the assistance tribunal judges can offer, meaning acting without legal advice could leave you at a disadvantage compared to opponents with professional representation.
Making the cost of Employment Tribunal representation value for money
If you or your organisation are based in Cornwall, and you want to engage solicitors with expertise in Employment Tribunals, please contact Nalders for an initial no-obligation discussion.