Claimant v Royal Mail Group Limited
Outcome
Individual claims
The tribunal found some allegations of direct discrimination on grounds of gender reassignment were proven, while others failed. The claimant succeeded on at least one allegation relating to less favourable treatment because of her gender reassignment.
The tribunal found that some allegations of harassment related to gender reassignment were established, demonstrating unwanted conduct that violated the claimant's dignity or created an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment.
The claimant succeeded on one specific allegation of direct sex discrimination, showing less favourable treatment because of her sex on that particular occasion.
The claimant succeeded on one allegation of harassment related to sex, proving unwanted conduct related to her sex that violated her dignity or created a hostile environment.
Facts
The claimant, a transgender woman employed by Royal Mail, brought claims of discrimination and harassment related to both gender reassignment and sex. She submitted two grievances which the respondent failed to handle properly in accordance with ACAS guidelines. The claimant alleged multiple instances of discriminatory treatment and harassment involving colleagues including Nick Cavanagh and Howard Bearder.
Decision
The tribunal found that some of the claimant's allegations of direct discrimination and harassment related to both gender reassignment and sex were proven. The tribunal awarded £10,000 for injury to feelings with £2,000 aggravated damages, plus a 25% ACAS uplift of £2,500 for the respondent's failure to properly handle grievances. The tribunal also made six detailed recommendations to prevent future discrimination.
Practical note
Employers must properly handle grievances involving discrimination claims and ensure adequate training on harassment prevention, particularly regarding gender reassignment, or face both financial penalties and extensive remedial recommendations.
Award breakdown
Vento band: middle
Adjustments
Respondent failed to follow the ACAS Code of Practice in respect of the Claimant's two grievances, resulting in a 25% uplift on the injury to feelings award.
Legal authorities cited
Statutes
Case details
- Case number
- 3303104/2024
- Decision date
- 1 August 2025
- Hearing type
- full merits
- Hearing days
- 6
- Classification
- contested
Respondent
- Sector
- logistics
- Represented
- Yes
- Rep type
- solicitor
Claimant representation
- Represented
- No