EE worker wins tribunal

A call centre manager who was sacked by mobile network operator EE has won her employment tribunal case against the company.

Fay Hand, who had worked for almost 17 years at EE's Darlington site, has secured a five-figure sum for unfair dismissal.

The incident occurred when the usual office banter escalated and a man was kicked unconscious at his desk.

One employee had his car keys hidden, and a new computer game held hostage. The employee grew angry, but despite expressing his frustration to Mrs Hand, who in turn told the appropriate team leader to "sort it out," no further action was taken.

Next month the same employee's security pass was defaced with permanent marker. This proved to be the last straw, and the man in question confronted the prankster, kicking him at his desk, knocking him unconscious.

The perpetrator was immediately suspended, but came to work the next day with a three-page document detailing the build up to the incident. He also alleged Mrs Hand had not taken his complaints seriously.

EE sacked Mrs Hand on the grounds she had failed to protect the employee, and had breached its policies on harassment and bullying.

However the court found that the manager's investigation into Mrs Hand's actions was wholly inadequate, and that her dismissal had been pre-judged.

Mrs Hand no longer works in a call centre, and has secured work in an office managing fewer people.

If you believe you have been unfairly dismissed, call our lawyers on 0845 603 0708 to discuss your situation. 

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