Unite is the union for the 21st century, meeting the greatest challenges facing working people today
- Sharon Graham (Unite General Secretary)
NHS Cleaner Wins £50,000 for Unfair Dismissal: A Testament to Knowing Your Rights
Know Your Rights!
Stuart Thomas | 22nd January 2025
In a landmark decision, Zoe Kitching, a dedicated cleaner at the Royal Lancaster Infirmary, was awarded £50,000 in compensation after an employment tribunal found she had been unfairly dismissed. Between 2019 and 2023, Ms. Kitching took over 400 sick days due to complex mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. Despite substantial medical evidence supporting her condition, NHS managers failed to recognize her disability status, leading to her unjust termination.
Employment Judge Robert Childe criticized the NHS trust for not accommodating Ms. Kitching's disability, describing the dismissal as fundamentally flawed and discriminatory. The tribunal highlighted the importance of acknowledging and supporting employees with disabilities, emphasizing that denying such status without proper consideration is both irrational and wrong.
Understanding Your Rights as an Employee
This case underscores the critical importance of employees being well-informed about their rights, especially concerning health-related absences and disability accommodations. The Equality Act 2010 protects individuals from discrimination based on disabilities, ensuring they receive fair treatment and necessary adjustments in the workplace. Being aware of these rights empowers employees to advocate for themselves and seek justice when treated unfairly.
Unite Reps: Your Support System in Challenging Times
Facing workplace challenges, particularly those involving health issues, can be daunting. Unite the Union is committed to standing by its members during such times. Our dedicated representatives are trained to provide guidance, support, and representation to ensure your rights are upheld. Whether it's navigating complex employment laws or addressing grievances with employers, Unite reps are here to assist you every step of the way.
Ms. Kitching's victory serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding your rights and the role of union support in safeguarding those rights.
Together, we can strive for fair and just workplaces for all.