Discrimination in employment...the law changed on the 6th April 2012...are you up to date?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

From the 6th April 2012 the qualifying period for employees to bring an unfair dismissal claim increases from 12 months to 2 years. However, there is no qualifying period if there is any element of discrimination or harassment.

The increase in the qualifying period will affect a large number of employees and it may lead to an increase in allegations of discrimination, as a result of employees trying to get around the qualifying period.

Last year the average award for unfair dismissal was £8924.  If the unfair dismissal was a result of discrimination, a further claim could be brought, and the average for this type of award was £14,137.  This means that if more employees pursue discrimination as a result of the extended qualifying period, the cost to employers could increase dramatically.

Can you and your business afford to take a chance?

James Bellamy, Employment Solicitor at Marsden Rawsthorn is running a free seminar which will take a look at discrimination under the Equality Act including:

• What counts as discrimination
• Who it applies to
• What are the consequences of a breach
• Who can be liable 
• How you can protect the business

In addition, Callum Taylor, Head of Management Liability at AXA Insurance, will also provide a 10 minute presentation on their Management Liability Policy which may cover (in addition to other benefits) your business in respect of a discrimination or unfair dismissal claim including :

• Legal costs of defending such claims
• Any compensation awarded in the event of a successful claim being brought

The seminar is being held at our Fulwood office on the 15th May 2012 and will commence at 8.30am and finish no later than 10am. Registration and a light breakfast will be available from 8am. To register please click here.

Posted : Tuesday 15th May 2012

---