Claimant v University of Exeter
Outcome
Individual claims
The tribunal found by majority decision that the claimant's claim of discrimination arising from disability was not established on the facts and evidence presented.
The tribunal unanimously concluded that the respondent had not failed in its duty to make reasonable adjustments for the claimant's disability.
Facts
Ms Caroline Pile brought disability discrimination claims against the University of Exeter. The case proceeded to a five-day full merits hearing in January 2025. The claimant represented herself while the university was represented by counsel. The judgment was reserved and delivered after the hearing concluded.
Decision
The tribunal dismissed both of Ms Pile's claims. Her claim for discrimination arising from disability failed by a majority decision, while her claim for failure to make reasonable adjustments was unanimously rejected. The tribunal gave full oral reasons at the hearing and did not provide written reasons in the judgment.
Practical note
A self-represented claimant in a disability discrimination case against a university employer faced significant challenges in establishing both discrimination arising from disability and failure to make reasonable adjustments, with the tribunal finding against her on both claims despite a five-day hearing.
Case details
- Case number
- 6001816/2023
- Decision date
- 24 January 2025
- Hearing type
- full merits
- Hearing days
- 5
- Classification
- contested
Respondent
- Sector
- education
- Represented
- Yes
- Rep type
- barrister
Claimant representation
- Represented
- No