One in 10 large retailers unaware of new scheme
The early conciliation service—which became compulsory this week for anyone considering an employment tribunal claim—is unknown to one in 10 large retailers.
New research by law firm Bond Dickinson and the British Retail Consortium uncovered the gap in knowledge. Of those who knew about the new service, one third were cautiously optimistic and the rest felt it would have a neutral or negative effect on their business.
The early conciliation service, which launched on 6 April and became compulsory a month later, is a free service run by Acas. The aggrieved employee or employer notifies Acas of their complaint. An Acas officer then contacts the parties involved and investigates whether an attempt at agreement can be made. If either side declines or can’t be contacted, Acas issues a form stating that conciliation is not possible. Only then can the aggrieved party launch a claim.
The research also found that 10% of retailers were unaware they could, as of 6 April, face fines of up to £5,000 for losing employment tribunal cases on top of their liability for any compensation due.
Christina Tolvas-Vincent, partner at Bond Dickinson, says: “The service has received a cautious thumbs up from the industry, but it is concerning that some are still unaware of its existence and the new possibility of fines for losing employment tribunals.”
The number of employment claims brought has dropped by nearly 80% since fees of up to £250 were introduced last July.
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