The Cardiff Employment Tribunal found that grievances raised against the two women were closely connected to their sexual orientation and amounted to unlawful harassment. One of the workers, Lisa Bennett, who had more than 30 years of service in the pharmacy sector, also succeeded in her claim for unfair dismissal. The tribunal identified serious shortcomings in the investigation that led to her dismissal, including a failure to properly investigate concerns she had raised. 

Represented by Thompsons Solicitors on behalf of their union, UNISON, the claimants challenged the way they were treated at work and secured compensation following the tribunal's findings.

Following the judgment, Lisa Bennett said losing her job after more than three decades of service had been devastating and that having aspects of her sexuality raised in workplace complaints had made the situation even more difficult. She welcomed the tribunal's recognition of what had happened and said no worker should have to fear their sexual orientation being used against them at work. 

The case serves as an important reminder that employers have a legal duty to protect workers from discrimination and harassment. Allegations linked to a person's sexual orientation must be treated seriously and investigated thoroughly, fairly and without bias.

UNISON Cymru regional organiser Lynne Hackett said the outcome reinforced the importance of workplace protections against discrimination and highlighted the role trade unions play in supporting members facing unfair treatment. 

Jazmeer Jackson, senior lawyer at Thompsons Solicitors, said:

"We don't often get 'slam dunk' cases, particularly in discrimination claims. But in this case, the evidence told a compelling story.

The members stood up for their rights, and we were proud to stand alongside them." 

Standing up to discrimination in the workplace

Every worker has the right to be treated with dignity and respect at work, regardless of their sexual orientation. This judgment underlines the protections available under equality legislation and demonstrates that workers who experience discrimination or harassment do not have to face it alone.

With the support of their union and legal representation from Thompsons, the claimants were able to hold their employer to account and secure justice through the employment tribunal process. 

If you have experienced discrimination, harassment or unfair treatment at work, Thompsons Solicitors can advise you on your rights and the options available to you.

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