The bands of awards for injury to feelings wards in discrimination claims (the “Vento Guidelines”) are updated from time to time in accordance with the Retail Price Index. These guidelines are not binding but the tribunals must have regard to it.
The Vento bands for claims presented on or after 6 April 2018 will now be as follows:
- £900 to £8,600 for the lower band (less serious cases);
- £8,600 to £25,700 for the middle band (cases that do not merit an award in the upper band);
- £25,700 to £42,900 for the upper band (the most serious cases); and
- £42,900 + for exceptional cases.
Lesson for employers: the financial risk of successful discrimination claims continues to go up and with no cap on compensation (as with unfair dismissal claims), employers would be wise to seek legal advice where discrimination claims are a risk.
If you would like any further information on the above or advice on how they apply to your business then please contact Tom Evans, Associate Employment & HR.
