Claimant v City of Bradford Metropolitan District Council

Outcome

Facts

The claimant's employment with a local council ended on 14 April 2023. She did not apply for ACAS early conciliation until 22 January 2024 and filed her claim on 14 February 2024, approximately 10 months after termination. She attributed the delay to her ADHD disability, domestic abuse from her spouse (most serious incidents ending July 2023), and work-related stress. The respondent's grievance process concluded on 23 October 2023. The claimant provided a witness statement but was unable to provide medical evidence supporting her inability to file the claim on time.

Decision

The tribunal dismissed all claims as out of time. The judge found that from 23 October 2023 onwards, when the grievance process ended, the claimant could and should have issued her claim but failed to do so until 14 February 2024. Despite the claimant's personal difficulties, the tribunal was not satisfied these prevented her from filing, particularly given the absence of medical evidence. The claimant disconnected from the video hearing when the judge indicated the likely outcome.

Practical note