Cases2602477/2023

Claimant v The Riverside Group Limited

26 June 2025Before Employment Judge R AdkinsonMidlands Eastin person

Outcome

Claimant fails

Individual claims

Unfair Dismissalfailed

The tribunal considered the evidence relating to the claimant's dismissal and determined that it did not constitute unfair dismissal. The reasons were given orally at the hearing, and no written reasons were requested at that time.

Direct Discrimination(race)failed

The tribunal found that the claimant's suspension was not an act of direct discrimination because of race. The respondent had legitimate, non-discriminatory reasons for the suspension.

Direct Discrimination(race)failed

The tribunal determined that the investigation into the claimant's conduct was not an act of direct discrimination because of race. The investigation was conducted for legitimate reasons unconnected to the claimant's race.

Direct Discrimination(race)failed

The tribunal concluded that the claimant's dismissal was not an act of direct discrimination because of race. The decision to dismiss was based on legitimate conduct issues and not influenced by the claimant's race.

Victimisationfailed

The tribunal found that the dismissal was not an act of victimisation. The respondent had not subjected the claimant to a detriment because he had done a protected act.

Facts

The claimant, Mr Ahmed, was employed by The Riverside Group Limited. He was suspended and subject to a conduct investigation, which ultimately led to his dismissal. The claimant brought claims of unfair dismissal, race discrimination relating to his suspension, investigation and dismissal, and victimisation arising from his dismissal.

Decision

The tribunal dismissed all of the claimant's claims. The tribunal found that the dismissal was not unfair, that none of the acts complained of constituted direct race discrimination, and that the dismissal was not an act of victimisation. The reasons for the decision were given orally at the hearing.

Practical note

A claimant appearing in person against represented opposition faces significant challenges in establishing discrimination claims where the employer can demonstrate legitimate non-discriminatory reasons for suspension, investigation and dismissal.

Case details

Case number
2602477/2023
Decision date
26 June 2025
Hearing type
full merits
Hearing days
4
Classification
contested

Respondent

Sector
public sector
Represented
Yes
Rep type
barrister

Claimant representation

Represented
No