Discrimination arose in consequence of disability related to menopause symptoms

In Davies v Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service, D is disabled because of substantial medical problems related to the menopause, including lacking concentration.
sexual harassment

In Davies v Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service, D is disabled because of substantial medical problems related to the menopause, including lacking concentration. D noticed the water jug on her desk had been emptied and could not remember if she had diluted her medication into the water. She became concerned when she saw two men drinking water nearby. She approached them explaining her concerns and one of the men became upset. SCTS investigated the matter and although it became apparent that D had been confused and the medication was not in the water, D was dismissed for breaching health and safety rules and SCTS values and behaviours. The ET held that D’s dismissal was unfair and amounted to unfavourable treatment because of something arising in consequence of her disability. Her conduct was affected by her disability because it caused her to be confused and forgetful about whether she had taken her medication and whether she had put it in the water jug. While the SCTS had the legitimate aim of having honest and trustworthy staff, dismissal was not a proportionate response when taking into account the impact of her disability. The ET ordered that D be reinstated to her previous job and be paid £19,000 to account for arrears of pay and compensate for injury to feelings.


This update provides summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. Where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out all of the facts, the legal arguments presented and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Click on the links to access full details. If no link is provided, contact us for more information.  Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, SM&B cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.

Read more

Latest News

Read More

Guide to data-driven approach to optimising benefits

1 August 2025

Leadership

1 August 2025

Meaning you’re being over cautious the consequences of this not working are not almost certain death more likely just a dent in your reputation (for...

Corporate Social Responsibility

31 July 2025

Organisations that are attuned to the world around them will use CSR to align company values with direct societal needs....

Newsletter

Receive the latest HR news and strategic content

Please note, as per the GDPR Legislation, we need to ensure you are ‘Opted In’ to receive updates from ‘theHRDIRECTOR’. We will NEVER sell, rent, share or give away your data to third parties. We only use it to send information about our products and updates within the HR space To see our Privacy Policy – click here

Latest HR Jobs

Brunel University London – Business Operations – Enabling ServicesSalary: £45,390 to £58,263 inclusive of London weighting, with potential to progress to £65,236 per annum through

University of YorkSalary: Competitive remuneration and benefits This provides summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. Where employment tribunal and appellate court cases

University of East London – Strategic Development and Delivery directorate Salary: From £52,307 inclusive of London Weighting This provides summary information and comment on the

Queen Mary University of London – IT Services DirectorateSalary: £54,617 to £60,901 per annum This provides summary information and comment on the subject areas covered.

Read the latest digital issue of theHRDIRECTOR for FREE

Read the latest digital issue of theHRDIRECTOR for FREE