Employers are reminded that sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace will not be tolerated after a highflying gay sales executive was awarded a record payout by an employment tribunal.

On the back of the recent case of Jonah Ditton, who was recently awarded £118.309 at a Glasgow Employment Tribunal after he was called a “wee poof” by his boss and who was dismissed after only 8 days employment, comes the case of Marlene Bielak who claims that she was called a “f***ing dyke” and played “All The Lazy Dykes” by Morrisey every time she entered the storeroom.

Bielak said that her employer did not act on the formal complaint she made concerning homophobic bullying and harassment and after 14 months was forced to resign.

She is claiming £124,000 for loss of earnings and hurt feelings.  The tribunal is due to rule on the compensation in July.

You should ensure that your equal opportunities policy covers discrimination and harassment on the grounds of sex, race, colour, nationality, religion, marital status, sexual orientation, ethnic origin or age.

Further guidance is available from our Consultancy Team.