Employees 'pulling a sickie' could be dismissed

The Employment Appeals Tribunal has recently clarified the position in respect of the options available to Human Resource professionals in dealing with employees who ‘pull a sickie’.

In the case of Metroline West Ltd v Ajaj, Mr Ajaj was employed as a bus driver and was dismissed for gross misconduct having been found by his employer to be fraudulently claiming sick leave and sick pay by misrepresenting and/or exaggerating his illness.

The Tribunal held that an employee who ‘pulls a sickie’ is in fundamental breach of their employment contract by acting dishonestly.

The Chattertons Employment Law Team can advise you on your options in respect of dealing with any problematic employees that may be considered as acting dishonestly through ‘pulling a sickie’ and any other HR related issues.

If you require any further advice on this, or any other Employment law matter, please contact the Chattertons Employment law team at your nearest office.