Are you confident your business could survive an employment tribunal? In Episode 11 of HR Unboxed, hosts Natalie and Faye reveal the shocking reality of workplace disputes that have cost companies thousands — sometimes over seemingly trivial incidents.
Real Cases, Real Consequences
This episode uncovers extraordinary tribunal cases that began with everyday workplace situations. From explosive confrontations in hotel lobbies to sleeping security guards caught on camera, these real-life examples demonstrate how quickly minor issues can escalate into major legal battles.
Perhaps most surprisingly, the hosts reveal how something as simple as excluding an employee from the office tea round resulted in a substantial payout. These cases highlight a crucial truth: in employment law, no detail is too small to matter.
Why Small Actions Lead to Big Payouts
Employment tribunals don’t just focus on obvious discrimination or harassment. They scrutinise:
- Process failures in disciplinary procedures
- Lack of evidence to support management decisions
- Inadequate support for employees facing difficulties
- Seemingly minor exclusions that create hostile environments
The financial implications are staggering. Beyond compensation awards, businesses face legal costs, management time, and reputational damage that can persist long after the case concludes.
Protecting Your Business: Essential Insights
Natalie and Faye share practical guidance on safeguarding your organisation:
Document everything — proper records are your strongest defence in tribunal proceedings. Follow consistent processes — ad-hoc approaches to discipline and grievances create vulnerability. Provide adequate support — employees facing challenges need appropriate assistance and reasonable adjustments.
Listen Now: Available on All Major Platforms
Don’t wait until you’re facing a tribunal to understand these critical issues. Episode 11 of HR Unboxed is available now on:
- Spotify — Stream instantly on your mobile or desktop
- Apple Podcasts — Download for offline listening
- Google Podcasts — Access through your Google account
- YouTube — Watch the full video version
This episode is essential listening for business owners, managers, and HR professionals who want to protect their organisations from costly legal disputes.
Search “HR Unboxed” on your preferred platform or visit YouTube to watch the complete episode.
HR Unboxed delivers practical employment law insights for real-world business challenges. Subscribe to never miss an episode and protect your business from avoidable legal risks.
Natalie Ellis HR 