Employment Tribunal backlog rises by 23% in a year – what this means for employers and claimants
The backlog of open cases at employment tribunals has increased significantly, reaching 49,800 by the end of 2024 – a 23% rise from the 39,000 cases recorded the previous year – according to newly released statistics from HM Courts and Tribunals service. The growing caseload affects approximately 450,000 individuals all waiting for their cases to be heard.
A system under pressure
One of the key reasons for the backlog is a shortage of judicial resources. As a result, both claimants and employers, are facing long delays before their cases are heard. The average wait times for a single claim involving unfair dismissal or discrimination is now around one year.
New employment rights expected to add pressure
The situation is expected to worsen with the introduction of new rights under the Employment Rights Bills. One proposed change – making unfair dismissal a day-one right – is anticipated to significantly increase claim volumes, even if probation periods remain in place. Additional pressures on employers, such as coping with the recent increases in the minimum wage and employers’ national insurance, could result in more redundancy related disputes.
In the final quarter of 2024, the number of claims lodged hit 11,500, whilst only 10,100 cases were resolved. This compares to 8,800 claims lodged in the same quarter of 2023, demonstrating a 30% increase. The backlog has also been worsened by longer-term issues including the abolition of tribunal fees in 2017 and Covid pandemic’s disruption to hearings, both of which have increased the volume of claims and time taken to deal with them.
Navigating the backlog – how out firm can help
With tribunal delays reaching critical levels, it is more important than ever to receive timely, strategic legal advice. At Lawson West, we can help both employees and employers navigate the complexities of employment disputes, minimise risk, and seek resolution as efficiently as possible.
If you require assistance with navigating an employment dispute, please do not hesitate to contact Lawson West Solicitors. Please contact us on telephone 0116 212 1000 or alternatively complete the free Contact Us form and we will get in touch as soon as possible.
View all
