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• Neil Buck
• HR Updates
• June 30, 2012

Employment tribunal statistics – 15% fall in claims

by Neil Buck

According to Tribunals Service statistics, there has been a decrease in the number of claims being brought in Employment Tribunals, with the number of claims decreasing from 236,100 in 2009/10 to 218,100 in 2010/11 and decreasing again to 186,300 in 2011/12.

The Tribunals Service’s annual figures, which cover the period from 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2012, show that Employment Tribunals received a total of 186,300 claims during 2011/12, a 15% fall compared to 2010/11. There was a 2% fall in single claims and a 19% fall in multiple claims. 

Comparing 1 April 2010 to 31 March 2011 with 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2012, the number of cases brought in some of the main employment tribunal jurisdictions has fallen, including claims for:

• unfair dismissal from 47,900 to 46,300;
• breach of contract from 34,600 to 32,100; and
• equal pay from 34,600 to 28,800. 

The number of claims for failure to inform and consult in a transfer of undertaking (TUPE) situation has risen, up from 1,900 in 2010/11 to 2,600 in 2011/12.

Comment: Although the stats show a decrease this year there is still a significant risk of a claim for employers (unfair dismissal still being one of the most common types of claim) especially when times are hard and employees know their rights more than ever. Doing the simple right things and getting good, practical advice at the right time (i.e. from us!) should prevent claims being brought in the first place. However, if a claim is made against you when can support you throughour the process – just get in touch.