An Employment Tribunal has found that a bonus scheme run by Sunderland City Council is discriminatory. The scheme paid productivity bonuses of up to 50% of basic salary to male employees in male-dominated jobs such as street cleaners and gardeners. The productivity bonuses were not available to female employees in domestic, catering and caring roles, despite the fact they were doing equivalent work to the male employees. Twelve female employees submitted test claims to an Employment Tribunal against Sunderland City Council.
At the tribunal the scheme was described as a ‘sham’. The level of compensation has not been set, but the judgement could result in compensation to around 150 female employees at the council. A spokesperson for the solicitors representing the female employees has suggested the female employees could receive up to £30,000 each in compensation for being unable to earn bonuses available to male employees doing equivalent work. The council is considering the judgement and may appeal against some aspects of the Employment Tribunal judgement.
If you have any queries relating to equal pay or sexual discrimination, please contact either Ashley Hunt or Vaishali Thakerar on 0116 212 1000 now or complete one of the on-line forms.
