Claimant v University of Bristol
Outcome
Individual claims
The tribunal heard the case over four days and unanimously concluded that the unfair dismissal claim was not well-founded. The judgment was given orally at the hearing with reasons provided. The tribunal dismissed the claim after considering all evidence presented.
The tribunal unanimously found that the wrongful dismissal claim was not well-founded. After a four-day hearing and consideration of all evidence, the tribunal determined that the respondent had not breached the contract of employment in dismissing the claimant.
Facts
Dr M Caleap was employed by the University of Bristol and was subsequently dismissed. The claimant brought claims for unfair dismissal and wrongful dismissal before the Bristol Employment Tribunal. The hearing took place over four days in July 2025.
Decision
The tribunal unanimously dismissed both claims. The tribunal found that neither the unfair dismissal nor the wrongful dismissal claims were well-founded. Oral reasons were given at the hearing.
Practical note
This case resulted in a complete loss for a litigant in person against a university represented by counsel, highlighting the challenges self-represented claimants face in employment tribunals.
Case details
- Case number
- 1403811/2019
- Decision date
- 11 September 2025
- Hearing type
- full merits
- Hearing days
- 4
- Classification
- contested
Respondent
- Sector
- education
- Represented
- Yes
- Rep type
- barrister
Claimant representation
- Represented
- No