Claimant v Venesky-Brown Recruitment Limited

Outcome

Facts

The claimant, Sales Director at a recruitment company, was dismissed on 26 September 2025 by the Managing Director on the same day he sent an email to the Head of HR. He was dismissed instantly without warning, interview, or any disciplinary process. The employer claimed the dismissal was due to the 'inappropriate and inflammatory tone' of the email and its cumulative effect on HR, though the email appeared to raise legitimate concerns including lack of investigation into sexual harassment allegations. The claimant alleged he made seven protected disclosures and applied for interim relief within the required seven-day period.

Decision

The tribunal dismissed the application for interim relief, finding it was not 'likely' (to the higher 'pretty good chance' standard) that the principal reason for dismissal would be found to be whistleblowing at a full hearing. The judge noted the evidence was untested, the picture was complicated by multiple potential reasons for dismissal, and that disproving the employer's stated reason does not automatically prove the claimant's alternative theory. The lack of process and instant dismissal was noted but insufficient to reach the required threshold of likelihood at this preliminary stage.

Practical note

Legal authorities cited