Employment Tribunal statistics
Although the previous Employment Tribunal statistics had shown a dramatic increase in the number of claims, the most recent details (released on 1 September and covering the period from 1 April 2010 to 31 March 2011) show that there had actually been an 8% decrease on total claims when compared with the figures for the previous year.
Interestingly however, there was nearly a threefold increase in claims under the Part-Time Workers Regulations, and claims for age discrimination were up by 32%.
The statistics also reveal that only 12% of claims succeeded at hearing – 29% settled through ACAS and 32% were withdrawn.
Only 487 costs awards were made in the 244,000 claims disposed of during the period – 355 in favour of respondents and 132 in favour of claimants. This certainly fits with our experience of Tribunals – although we have managed to succeed in getting costs for our clients in a number of cases, costs awards are still very much the exception rather than the rule.
The average awards were:
- Unfair dismissal – £8,924
- Discrimination on the grounds of religion or belief – £8,515
- Disability discrimination – £14,137
- Age discrimination – £30,289
Inevitably these average figures can be skewed by certain cases with extremely high awards. However, they are a reminder of the risk of getting things wrong.
If you have an Employment Tribunal claim, or a situation you feel might end up in Tribunal, then why not give us a call – we have many years of experience in dealing with Tribunal matters and can give you practical advice on the best way forward. We handle all our own advocacy and have been praised for helping clients deal with what can be a daunting process.
If you would like to talk through a situation you are dealing with, or if you need advice on any aspect of employment law, please contact any member of the Pure Employment Law team (01243 836840 or [email protected])