Employment tribunal statistics for the quarter October to December 2020 have been published. Accelerating the trend shown in the previous quarter’s statistics, claim receipts increased by 82% and single claim receipts increased by 25% compared with the same quarter in the previous year. Indeed, the continued increase in claims was most likely due to the rise in unemployment, redundancies and changes in working conditions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the tribunals expect to see a slowdown in receipts following the announcement that the furlough scheme will continue until 30 September 2021.
Clearly, the continuing COVID-19 related pressures on the tribunals were reflected in its outstanding caseload rising to 51,000, a 12% increase for multiple claims and 36% for single claims (up to 44,000). However, disposals of single claims remained stable, and multiple claim disposals increased by 66%. 27% of disposals were due to Acas conciliated settlements, 9% were struck out before final hearing, and 7% were successful at final hearing. The remainder were withdrawn.