Figures released this month by the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have shown the number of UK workers challenging unfair treatment or discrimination in the workplace has fallen by 9,000 a month.
Analysis found that in the year 2012-13, before tribunal fees of £1,200 per claim were introduced, an average of 16,000 people per month took a claim against their employer. However, the figure had dropped to 7,000 by 2015-16, including a 73 per cent drop for unfair dismissal claims; 71 per cent in sex discrimination, 58 per cent in race discrimination; a 54 per cent decrease in disability discrimination claims.
TUC general secretary, Frances O’Grady said: “These figures show a huge drop in workers seeking justice when they’ve been unfairly treated. Now bosses know they can get away with it, discrimination at work can flourish unchecked and people can be sacked without good reason.
“The evidence is there for all to see. These fees – of up to £1200, even if you’re on the minimum wage – are pricing out thousands each month from pursuing cases. Theresa May has repeatedly said she wants to govern for ordinary working people. Here is a perfect opportunity. She could reverse employment tribunal fees, and make sure workers can challenge bad employers in court.”
Claims being taken to employment tribunal
| Year | Disability discrimination | Race discrimination | Sex discrimination | Unfair dismissal |
| 2012/13 | 7,492 | 4,818 | 18,814 | 49,036 |
| 2015/16 | 3,468 | 2,001 | 5,371 | 12,652 |
| % change | -54% | -58% | -71% | -73% |
The TUC is calling for the Ministry of Justice to publish its review on the impact of fees – which was originally due at the end of last year – as well as the Prime Minister, Theresa May and the Chancellor of the Exchequer, Philip Hammond to eradicate fees in the upcoming Autumn Statement.
