A Westminster City Council employee was left in disbelief after being slapped with a staggering £1,200 invoice while on maternity leave – simply for submitting her resignation.
The worker, who chose to remain anonymous, described the demand as "outrageous" after receiving the bill for "admin fees" related to processing her departure. The council later admitted the invoice was sent in error and apologised for the distress caused.
Maternity Leave Shock
The new mother had been on statutory maternity leave when she decided not to return to her role. Instead of a smooth transition, she was met with a demand for £1,200 to cover supposed administrative costs – a move that employment experts have called "highly unusual" and potentially unlawful.
Council Backtracks
After being contacted by media outlets, Westminster City Council swiftly retracted the invoice, calling it an "administrative mistake". A spokesperson stated: "We sincerely apologise for any concern this may have caused. There is no charge for resigning from the council."
Employment lawyers warn that such demands could violate the Equality Act 2010, which protects women on maternity leave from workplace discrimination. The case has sparked debate about how local authorities treat employees during vulnerable periods.
