Claimant v Dravens Healthcare Ltd (in voluntary liquidation)
Outcome
Individual claims
The tribunal found that the claimant was dismissed for a reason connected to her pregnancy or maternity, constituting automatic unfair dismissal under section 99 of the Employment Rights Act 1996. The respondent did not participate to provide any alternative explanation.
The tribunal upheld part of the claimant's pregnancy and maternity discrimination claim under section 18 of the Equality Act 2010. The judgment indicates some aspects of the discrimination claim succeeded while others may have failed, though specific details are not provided.
Facts
The claimant was employed by Dravens Healthcare Ltd, which subsequently entered voluntary liquidation. She was dismissed while pregnant or on maternity leave. The respondent did not participate in the tribunal proceedings. The claimant represented herself and brought claims for automatic unfair dismissal and pregnancy/maternity discrimination.
Decision
The tribunal found in favour of the claimant, upholding her claim for automatic unfair dismissal under section 99 ERA 1996 and partially upholding her pregnancy and maternity discrimination claim under section 18 EqA 2010. Total compensation of £25,675.08 was awarded, comprising £11,275.08 for unfair dismissal and £14,400 for injury to feelings.
Practical note
Dismissals related to pregnancy or maternity are automatically unfair and attract significant injury to feelings awards, even where the employer is insolvent and does not defend the claim.
Award breakdown
Vento band: middle
Legal authorities cited
Statutes
Case details
- Case number
- 3305278/2024
- Decision date
- 23 September 2025
- Hearing type
- full merits
- Hearing days
- 1
- Classification
- contested
Respondent
- Sector
- healthcare
- Represented
- No
Claimant representation
- Represented
- No