On the horizon in Employment law - May 2019

There is new guidance on compensation for injury to feelings in discrimination and whistleblowing case (known as the Ventobands). For all claims lodged on or after 6 April 2019, the new compensation rates will be as follows:

• Lower band (minor cases): £900 - £8,800
• Middle band (medium seriousness): £8,800 - £26,300
• Upper band (the most serious cases, often involving multiple incidents): £26,300 - £44,000, with the ability to go above that in exceptional cases.

A new scheme helping individuals with mental health conditions to return to work

A scheme aimed at helping individuals with mental health conditions to return to work will be rolled out more widely. Mental ill-health is a major contributor to long-term sickness absence and can be challenging for employers to manage.