The problem
Laura M worked for a care home (via an agency) in a role that was physically demanding and carried the possibility of certain risks. After telling the employer that she was pregnant, Laura was advised that it could not guarantee her safety in her current position and that, were anything to happen to her during her pregnancy, it would be her “fault” and it would not be liable.
The agency showed Laura other roles that were two grades lower than her salary band and none that were equivalent to her current salary. However, the social care trust that administered the home told her that, had she been a member of their staff, she would have been found an alternative position. Eventually, the agency told Laura to sign on for Universal Credit, effectively sacking her.
The solution
Laura approached Paul Doran Law for help, and our team entered into various discussions with the employment agency and regional social care trust on her behalf. “It was so much work on their part and so much back and forth,” says Laura.
We advised Laura to accept a lower-paid role while she was pursuing her case. We compiled a ‘schedule of losses’ that documented her current salary, the salary from the lower-paid job and the difference between the two.
The result
The statement of loss total was nearly 20k – but because the trust backed out, that halved it – and there was a potential that she wouldn’t get any settlement at all.
She was losing money in the lower-paid role because she had to travel more, so she was happy to receive any amount.
We eventually won her a £5,000 settlement, which enabled her to pay off the debts she had accumulated during her time out of work and on the lower-rate salary. “It really helped me,” says Laura.
In Laura’s own words
“Paul Doran Law were really, really good and explained all the different legislation. Montana Spence was brilliant. I was a ‘nervous Nellie’ and she was great at explaining the process.
“They were so good at communicating with me. Montana always replied to me by email or picked up the phone whenever things had gone quiet and I asked what was happening.
“The team was very kind, considerate and understanding about my situation, that it was a really stressful time for me, and that I couldn’t always get things done during the day.
“I really appreciate all their help. They got my head above water.”
About us: At Paul Doran Law, we specialise in employment law – this includes settlement and severance matters as well as claims about equal pay, discrimination, unfair or constructive dismissal, and unpaid wages or holiday pay.
We’re on your side: We only act for employees who find themselves in a dispute with their employers.
About you: Whether you work for a multi-national corporation, public sector, private sector or small employer, we can help. We act for clients in Northern Ireland, England, Wales and Scotland.
Easy payment options: You’ll have a choice of ways to fund your claim, including no-win, no-fee. Often, your employer will pay our fee.
What next: Give us a call today for friendly, clear and honest advice about your case. The initial consultation is FREE and with no obligation.
Personal details have been changed for privacy reasons