Age overtakes race discrimination in tribunal cases

Although the number of applications to employment tribunals dropped in 2010-11, the annual tribunal statistics for the year ending 31 March 2011 show that 6,800 age claims were lodged in 2010-11, up from 5,200 in the previous year and up from 3,800 in 2008/9. The increase means that age is now responsible for more tribunals than race discrimination (5,000 cases) although sex discrimination (18,300 cases) is still by far the most common.  The next year’s statistics may show a further increase following the removal of the default retirement age.

 Overall, the number of employment tribunals dropped in 2010-11, with 218,100 cases lodged. This was a fall of 8% on last year, although it still represents a 44% increase from 2008-9.

Statistics reveal the outcome of claims to be: 32% withdrawn; 29% Acas Conciliated and 12% successful at a Tribunal.

 Rising backlog in total cases

The figures also showed that the Tribunal Service has a growing backlog of multiple claims.  The government’s current consultation on tribunal reform includes proposals to take witness statements ‘as read’ in hearings and for employment judges to hear some cases alone, both measures which would help reduce the backlog.

 The Employment Tribunals are independent judicial bodies who determine disputes between employers and employees over employment rights