Claimant v The Chief Constable of South Wales Police

Outcome

Facts

The Claimant worked as a police officer from December 2009 to January 2025. She had a history of anxiety dating back to 2006. During the relevant period 2019-2025, she experienced various symptoms including anxiety, stress, brain fog, fuzzy brain, suicidal thoughts, nightmares, and difficulties processing information and making decisions. She was signed off sick from June 2024. She also completed a full-time degree between 2020-2023 while working full-time. Medical and occupational health records showed mixed evidence of the impact of her condition.

Decision

The tribunal found the Claimant was a disabled person within the meaning of the Equality Act 2010 from July 2022 to 31 January 2025 due to brain fog arising from anxiety. The brain fog had a substantial adverse effect on her ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities including processing information at work, shopping and preparing food. The tribunal rejected arguments that symptoms were merely reactions to life events and found the effects were long-term. However, the tribunal found she was not disabled before July 2022.

Practical note

Legal authorities cited