DPD driver awarded £20k after colleagues gossiped about him

A DPD driver has been awarded £20,000 compensation after his employer breached his confidentiality, leading to colleagues gossiping about his flexible working arrangements.

Joanne Stronach Director and Head of Employment reports on this recent case.

Mr Courtney Rawlins, who worked as a delivery driver, won his claim for harassment related to sex after the Employment Tribunal ruled that DPD Group UK Limited had violated his dignity and created a hostile environment.

The tribunal heard that Rawlins’ flexible working request, approved in early 2022 to accommodate childcare responsibilities following the birth of his daughter, was mishandled by DPD.

His new schedule involved working four longer days per week, leaving Fridays free. However, confidentiality about his arrangements was breached, resulting in gossip among colleagues, complaints from co-workers, and increased workload.

Employment Judge Bradford said the gossip stemmed from a perception that Rawlins had received special treatment. The judge found the resulting behaviour, including remarks from a manager implying Rawlins had “an extra day off,” created an intimidating and humiliating environment.

“This conduct was clearly related to the claimant’s protected characteristic of being male,” Judge Bradford stated, noting that similar gossip would not likely occur if a female colleague had requested flexible working for childcare reasons.

The Tribunal awarded Rawlins £8,000 for injury to feelings, plus interest, and £10,620 for past loss of earnings. DPD was also criticised for allowing gossip and failing to address the negative impact on Rawlins’ working conditions.

While his claims for unfair dismissal and direct sex discrimination were dismissed, the tribunal found three instances of harassment, including breaches of confidentiality, co-workers’ complaints, and inappropriate comments about his workload.

The judge noted that Rawlins’ resignation in October 2022 was directly linked to the harassment, which left him feeling anxious and unsupported in his role.

If you would like more information about the issues raised in this article or any aspect of employment law please contact Joanne on 01228 516666 or click here to send her an email.