An army veteran with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who was sacked from his role as a prison officer after taking 98 sick days has been awarded £82,067.62 by an employment tribunal. Morgan Armstrong served in Iraq and Afghanistan before working at HMP Manchester from 2019 to 2023.
The tribunal heard that Armstrong was dismissed after an extended period of absence due to his PTSD. The Prison Service had issued two formal notices, but Armstrong received contradictory letters—one stating he was subject to disciplinary action, another saying no formal action would be taken.
Employment Judge Phil Allen ruled that Armstrong was unfairly dismissed, as PTSD is a legally recognised disability. The judge noted that manager Robert Knight had described Armstrong as 'blasé' about his absence, but the judge concluded that his mental health issues would have made him appear 'off-character'.
The tribunal found that the Prison Service failed to make reasonable adjustments and discriminated against Armstrong due to his disability. In September 2023, Armstrong was moved to visiting duties instead of external duties as hoped, causing a 'massive dip' in his mental health. He was dismissed in a two-minute meeting on 11 December 2023, without being asked if he could return to work.
The award includes £3,500 basic award, £30,000 compensation, £41,000 for losses, and £7,700 interest. Judge Allen concluded: 'The employer could have been expected to wait longer for the claimant’s return.'
