Inflation applies across the board…and the Employment Tribunal is no exception!
There has been an update to the Presidential Guidance on awards for injury to feelings from the Presidents of the Employment Tribunals in England and Wales. This updates the commonly known Vento bands from 6 April 2026 and the new bands reflect changes in the Retail Prices Index and will apply to claims presented on or after that date.
What actually are Vento bands?
They are the guidelines that tribunals use when deciding compensation for injury to feelings in discrimination and whistleblowing claims. In simple terms, they help tribunals make awards that are proportionate but also consistent and reflective of the seriousness of the treatment complained of.
The new bands – claims presented on or after 6 April 2026
| Band | Range | Type of cases |
|---|---|---|
| Lower band | £1,300 to £12,600 | Less serious |
| Middle band | £12,600 to £37,700 | Cases that do not merit an award in the upper band |
| Upper band | £37,700 to £62,900 | The most serious cases |
| Exceptional cases | Above £62,900 | The most exceptional |
What does this mean for employers?
This increase is a reminder that tribunal financial exposure in discrimination cases continues to rise. This reiterates how important it is to have proper policies and procedures as well as robust complaints handling and grievance procedures in place. Proper record-keeping and regular diversity equality training are essential for all
employers to ensure an equitable and fair workplace free of discriminatory behaviours and treatment, direct, indirect and in forms of harassment and victimisation.
A word of warning, even one singular complaint can lead to a significant award if the tribunal considers that the impact was serious enough for the claimant to have suffered.
Conclusion
This new increase is a warning to all businesses. It is advisable to use this as an opportunity to review workplace policies, complaint handling processes and ensure adequate management and HR training to minimise the risk of possible claims.
Overall, this April update highlights the importance of injury to feelings and ensuring that the law is keeping up to date with economic reality.
For further advice on injury to feelings and claims that give rise to the same please contact a member of our team on info@osbornewise.com