Mental Health Discrimination

24 April 2024

Elizabeth acted for the partner of a deceased claimant who had taken his own life following being made redundant.  The claimant was a solicitor and had suffered a mental health breakdown which led to psychosis.  Despite being aware of his mental health issues the claimant’s employer, on his return to work from sick leave, made him redundant with immediate effect.  Days later the claimant took his own life having been made to feel worthless.

The claimant’s partner pursued a claim in his name.  This was complicated by the fact that the original case pursued did not have employment tribunal jurisdiction given it was issued before letters of administration had been issued.  Elizabeth successfully overcame this hurdle so that the case could proceed. 

After many months Elizabeth achieved a substantial settlement on behalf of the deceased and his family which was to be used to set up a mental health support charity in his name.