Claimant v Mitie Limited
Outcome
Individual claims
The tribunal found that the claimant's claims of detriment on grounds related to trade union membership or activities were without merit. With the exception of one allegation regarding Mr Jesus not responding to an email of 21 May 2024, all claims were out of time and it was reasonably practicable to have brought them in time. The one in-time allegation also failed on substantive grounds.
Facts
John Inokoba, a trade union representative with previous tribunal experience, brought claims of detriment on grounds related to trade union membership or activities against Mitie Limited. The claims included allegations about bereavement leave and a failure by Mr Jesus to respond to an email dated 21 May 2024. The respondent's failure to provide a grievance outcome contributed to the claimant feeling the need to bring the claim. EJ Corrigan had previously made a deposit order of £200 on 27 January 2025 warning about time limit issues.
Decision
The tribunal dismissed all claims. All allegations except the one regarding Mr Jesus not responding to the 21 May 2024 email were out of time, and the tribunal found it was reasonably practicable to have brought them in time. The one in-time allegation also failed on its merits. The tribunal awarded costs of £2,500 to the respondent (including the £200 deposit), finding the claimant had behaved unreasonably in pursuing out of time allegations.
Practical note
Experienced trade union representatives who pursue tribunal claims despite clear deposit order warnings on time limits risk significant costs orders, even when unrepresented and on low income.
Legal authorities cited
Case details
- Case number
- 2305587/2024
- Decision date
- 3 October 2025
- Hearing type
- full merits
- Hearing days
- 2
- Classification
- contested
Respondent
- Name
- Mitie Limited
- Sector
- professional services
- Represented
- Yes
- Rep type
- barrister
Claimant representation
- Represented
- No