Statistics released for employment tribunal claims for the period April to June 2018 show significant increases in the number of claims being brought.
The Ministry of Justice has released a report which presents the latest statistics on type and volume of employment tribunal (ET) cases that were received, disposed of or were outstanding for the period April to June 2018.
The key figures highlighted in the report show that:
- The number of single ET claims received increased by 165% compared with the same quarter last year.
- There has been an increase of 56% in the number of ET claims disposed of in comparison to the same quarter last year, whilst the backlog of single ET claims has increased by 130%.
- In 2017/18, disability discrimination claims received the largest average award (£30,700) compared to other discrimination jurisdictions, while Religious discrimination had the lowest average award (£5,100).
- There were 14,500 applications for refunds of tribunal fees paid (prior to their abolition last year) and 12,400 refund payments made, with a total value of just over £10.6 million.
These statistics show the significant increase in the number of ET claims employers are now facing in light of the abolition of tribunal fees in July 2017. On an analysis of the ET statistics since the change in the fee regime, it appears as though we are still at the start of a sharp, upward slope in claims.
Matthew Potter comments:
"This upward trend in ET claims is likely to result in employers coming under increased pressure in relation to their time and resources in dealing with such claims. If you need assistance in defending an ET claim please speak to a member of our employment team. There are often tactical steps that can be taken which might result in the claim being struck out or the claimant having to pay a deposit order to proceed. We also offer a range of different training sessions. These sessions are designed to help your business comply with employment legislation and implement best practice in managing your workforce thereby placing you and your business in the best possible position to prevent or defend such claims. For further details, please click here."