Cases6006180/2024

Claimant v Rightsline Software UK Ltd

26 June 2025Before Employment Judge C LewisLondon Central

Outcome

Claimant succeeds£69,733

Individual claims

Unfair Dismissalsucceeded

The tribunal found that the claimant was unfairly dismissed by the 1st respondent. The tribunal awarded compensatory damages for past and future loss of earnings and loss of statutory rights, indicating the dismissal was both substantively and procedurally unfair.

Othersucceeded

The 1st respondent failed to provide true written reasons for dismissal contrary to section 92 of the Employment Rights Act 1996. The tribunal awarded two weeks' pay (£1,400) as a penalty for this failure.

Failure to Inform & Consultsucceeded

The 2nd respondent failed in its duty to inform and consult under the TUPE regulations in relation to the transfer. The 1st and 2nd respondents were found jointly and severally liable and ordered to pay £8,076.90 in compensation.

Breach of Contractfailed

The claim for breach of contract was not upheld by the tribunal. No compensation was awarded for this claim.

Facts

The claimant was employed by the 1st respondent in the software technology sector. A TUPE transfer occurred involving the 2nd respondent. The claimant was dismissed by the 1st respondent, who also failed to provide true written reasons for the dismissal. The 2nd respondent failed to inform and consult about the TUPE transfer as required by law.

Decision

The tribunal found the dismissal was unfair and that the 1st respondent failed to comply with section 92 ERA 1996 regarding written reasons. The 2nd respondent breached TUPE consultation duties. The claimant was awarded £69,732.50 from the 1st respondent (including grossing up for tax) and £8,076.90 jointly and severally from both respondents for the TUPE breach. The breach of contract claim failed.

Practical note

Employers must provide truthful written reasons for dismissal and comply with TUPE information and consultation obligations, with both transferor and transferee potentially being jointly liable for TUPE failures.

Award breakdown

Compensatory award£62,900
Loss of statutory rights£500

Legal authorities cited

Statutes

ERA 1996 s.92TUPE regulations

Case details

Case number
6006180/2024
Decision date
26 June 2025
Hearing type
full merits
Hearing days
4
Classification
contested

Respondent

Sector
technology
Represented
Yes
Rep type
barrister

Employment details

Claimant representation

Represented
Yes
Rep type
lay rep