Pub giant JD Wetherspoon has been slapped with a substantial £25,000 compensation order after one of its managers engaged in shocking disability discrimination against a vulnerable employee.
The employment tribunal heard disturbing details of how manager Liam O'Donnell subjected kitchen worker Liam Roberts to humiliating treatment because of his cerebral palsy at The Foot of the Walk pub in Edinburgh.
The Shocking Treatment Unveiled
Roberts, who worked diligently as a kitchen assistant, was systematically targeted by O'Donnell in what the tribunal described as a campaign of discrimination. The manager openly mocked Roberts's condition, making cruel comments about his mobility and even questioning whether he was "fit to work" in front of other staff members.
Perhaps most disturbingly, O'Donnell was heard telling another employee that Roberts "shouldn't be working here" because of his disability - a clear violation of equality laws that protect disabled workers from such prejudice.
Wetherspoon's Failed Defence
Despite the overwhelming evidence presented at the Edinburgh tribunal, Wetherspoon attempted to distance itself from the manager's actions. The company claimed it had robust equality policies in place and argued it shouldn't be held responsible for O'Donnell's conduct.
However, Judge James Young completely rejected this defence, stating that O'Donnell was "clearly acting in the course of his employment" when he committed these discriminatory acts. The judge emphasised that companies cannot simply hide behind policies when their managers engage in unlawful behaviour.
A Landmark Ruling for Disability Rights
This case represents a significant victory for disability rights in the UK hospitality sector. The substantial compensation award sends a clear message to large employers that disability discrimination will not be tolerated and will come with serious financial consequences.
The ruling also establishes important precedent about managerial responsibility, confirming that companies are liable for the discriminatory actions of their managers, regardless of corporate policies.
For Roberts, the outcome brings some measure of justice after enduring what the tribunal described as "humiliating and degrading" treatment. The compensation includes awards for injury to feelings and personal injury, recognising the significant emotional distress caused by the discrimination.
