In Mr A Nti v University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, the Employment Tribunal (ET) dismissed claims of race and disability discrimination, victimisation, and being subjected to a detriment due to protected disclosures.
The claimant, Mr Nti, argued that he faced multiple instances of less favourable treatment during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. His grievances included delays in handling his complaint, failure to acknowledge his disability (atrial fibrillation), adverse findings from his grievance investigation, and a failure to protect him from COVID-19 risks.
The ET found that Mr Nti’s allegations were unfounded, particularly regarding the employer’s approach to addressing his complaints and providing workplace protections. The Tribunal noted that both parties agreed on a list of issues in March 2023, and no amendments were sought. The claimant’s representative confirmed that there were no additional claims, such as failure to make reasonable adjustments.
The ET highlighted that the Trust had adhered to formal grievance procedures and had engaged with the claimant’s concerns, including holding a meeting in January 2020. The Tribunal also rejected claims of protected disclosure detriments, ruling that the claimant’s disclosures were not in the public interest, and found no evidence of discrimination based on race or disability.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of clear communication and adherence to established grievance and investigation procedures to avoid potential discrimination claims under the Equality Act 2010.
Mr A Nti v University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust: 2309513/2020 – Dismissal.
