Claimant v Group 1 Retail Ltd
Outcome
Individual claims
The tribunal found that the respondent did not breach the implied term of trust and confidence. Looking at the facts objectively, Mrs Plane had a robust and direct management style but did not bully or threaten the claimant. The claimant interpreted every interaction through the lens of being forced out, but there was no objective basis for this. The grievance was investigated fairly.
The claimant resigned giving one month's notice. Although entitled to 12 weeks' notice if dismissed, he was not wrongfully dismissed because he resigned and did not ask to work his full notice period. The respondent did not dismiss him or prevent him from working notice.
Facts
The claimant was a retail manager employed for 18 years. He alleged persistent bullying by his line manager, Mrs Plane, citing 11 incidents over 15 months including critical performance reviews, emails sent early in the morning, and allegedly being told he was untrustworthy. He kept a private journal and raised a grievance which was partially upheld on appeal. He resigned on 22 November 2023 giving one month's notice, claiming constructive dismissal.
Decision
The tribunal dismissed both claims. The tribunal found that Mrs Plane had a robust, direct management style but did not bully or threaten the claimant. The claimant interpreted ordinary workplace disagreements and performance management as bullying. The grievance was fairly investigated. The claimant resigned giving one month's notice and was not wrongfully dismissed.
Practical note
A manager's direct or robust style, even if perceived as critical by an employee, does not amount to a breach of trust and confidence where the manager is legitimately holding the employee accountable and there is no evidence of actual bullying or intimidation when assessed objectively.
Legal authorities cited
Statutes
Case details
- Case number
- 3201032/2024
- Decision date
- 15 September 2025
- Hearing type
- full merits
- Hearing days
- 3
- Classification
- contested
Respondent
- Sector
- retail
- Represented
- Yes
- Rep type
- solicitor
Employment details
- Role
- Retail Manager
- Service
- 19 years
Claimant representation
- Represented
- Yes
- Rep type
- barrister