Employment Blog: Doctor Awarded Record £4.5m for Workplace Discrimination

While away colleagues had been paid extra to cover Dr Eva Michalak’s work, and a locum was hired to fill the role. Upon her return Michalak requested that she be paid the extra and when this was turned down she alleged sexual discrimination.

After years of what her husband called a “Get Eva Campaign”, she was dismissed following a disciplinary hearing which lasted from May 2007 to July 2008.  Michalak told the tribunal her co-workers “basically hounded me because I had a baby. They destroyed my life, my health and my career. The last seven years have been a living hell."

Following the award, Chief Executive of the NHS Trust, Julie Squire, apologised: "We simply do not tolerate bullying, harassment and discrimination under any circumstances and will ensure that there can be no repetition of the behaviour identified by the tribunal."

There are lessons here for all businesses. Had the maternity cover been handled effectively it is unlikely such a situation could have arisen.

If you have been a victim of bullying and harrassment call our employment team today on 0808 155 9070 or make an online enquiry. From a commercial point of view, if you are worried about your businesses employment procedures contact Lorna Valcin today to safeguard your firm from employment tribunals.