Supreme Court rules employment tribunal fees illegal

The government have ruled to stop charging employment tribunal fees and refund those who have previously paid for them. 

The decision was made after reports showed that the number of cases taken to employment tribunals had fell by 70% since the fees were introduced by Chris Grayling, the then Lord Chancellor.

The supreme court ruled in favour of Unison, the UKs largest trade union after they argued: “fees of up to £1,200 were preventing workers – especially those on lower incomes – from getting justice.” The court branded the tribunal fees illegal, and preventing a significant number of people unable to afford “access to justice.”

After today’s landmark victory, following Unisons four-year battle against the introduction of the fees, the government are set to refund up to £32 million to thousands of people charged for tribunal cases dating back to July 2013. The game changing decision will result in UK employers needing to brace themselves as employees are now free to assert their rights without any financial barriers restricting them.

The Trade Union Congress General Secretary, Frances O’Grady, said: “This is a massive win for working people. Too many low-paid workers couldn’t afford to uphold their rights at work, even when they’ve faced harassment or have been sacked unfairly”.

“Tribunal fees have been a bonanza for bad bosses, giving them free rein to mistreat staff. Any fees paid so far should be refunded as soon as possible.”

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Stephanie Coward

Managing Director, HCM

Stephanie Coward is Managing Director for HCM at IRIS, where she leads the strategy, innovation and growth of the organisation’s HR and payroll portfolio. She is responsible for positioning IRIS as a trusted partner to HR professionals and ensuring its solutions support the evolving needs of modern workforces.

With more than 25 years’ experience in the technology sector, Stephanie brings deep commercial and operational expertise, with a passion for improving the employee experience through technology.

Stephanie is committed to advancing IRIS’ HCM offering and helping organisations build more resilient, empowered workforces.