Cases2410871/2023

Claimant v Secretary of State for Work and Pensions

18 February 2025Before Employment Judge HoltManchesterin person

Outcome

Claimant succeeds£15,288

Individual claims

Unlawful Deduction from Wagessucceeded

By consent, the tribunal awarded the claimant £15,288.14 gross comprising £11,537.88 in unpaid wages and £3,750.26 in pension contributions. The respondent agreed to pay these sums without contest.

Breach of Contractsucceeded

The tribunal found a breach of section 11 of the Employment Rights Act. By consent, the respondent was ordered to issue a revised statement of employment particulars confirming the claimant was appointed as substantive Grade 7 with effect from 01 June 2021.

Facts

The claimant was employed by the Department for Work and Pensions and should have been appointed as a substantive Grade 7 from 01 June 2021. The respondent failed to properly recognise this appointment, resulting in unpaid wages of £11,537.88 and unpaid pension contributions of £3,750.26 over multiple tax years (2021-22 through 2024-25). The respondent also failed to provide a correct statement of employment particulars showing the Grade 7 appointment.

Decision

By consent, the tribunal awarded the claimant £15,288.14 gross for unlawful deduction of wages and ordered the respondent to issue a revised statement of employment particulars confirming her Grade 7 appointment from 01 June 2021. The pension contributions will be paid directly into her pension fund, with the remaining sum subject to tax and national insurance deductions.

Practical note

Public sector employers must ensure correct grading and payment from the effective date of appointment, as failure to do so results in unlawful wage deductions and breach of statutory obligations to provide accurate employment particulars.

Award breakdown

Arrears of pay£11,538
Unpaid wages£11,538
Pension loss£3,750

Legal authorities cited

Statutes

Employment Rights Act 1996 s.11

Case details

Case number
2410871/2023
Decision date
18 February 2025
Hearing type
remedy
Hearing days
1
Classification
contested

Respondent

Sector
central government
Represented
Yes
Rep type
barrister

Employment details

Role
Grade 7

Claimant representation

Represented
No