Bookshop workers get ‘justice’ in employment law case

Posted 25/08/2011

Thousands of pounds have been paid out to a group of six employees who were sacked from their jobs in a bookshop after the store was unexpectedly closed down by the owners.

Durham Cathedral bookshop employees won a total of £28,000 between them as a result of the employment law case, which was brought about against the American proprietors Phil and Mark Brewer.

According to a report published by the Northern Echo one of the six affected members of staff, Joan Cummins, was “delighted” with the result.

“It was never about the money. We’ve got our justice,” she told the newspaper.

The six members of staff won payouts ranging from £2,000 to £11,000, with the money covering compensation, redundancy, unpaid wages, holiday pay and notice period pay, as well as the failure of the bosses to adequately explain the dismissals.

Dianah Worman, diversity adviser at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development, recently warned older women could take action over disputes regarding their capability if they are not given training.

Businesses looking for advice on changes to employment law can find help at Ashtons Legal.