Home Office contractor lawsuit: Security staff sue over discrimination and unfair dismissal

Multiple staff members are taking legal action

(September 2022) Several security staff who work on behalf of the Home Office have proceeded to take legal action against the Home Office after they experienced discrimination in the workplace and unfair dismissal.

Employees of the Mitie Care & Custody organisation who work as part of the detention and deportation team, have reported experiencing race, sex, and disability discrimination whilst working on behalf of the Home Office – as a result, many have been dismissed unfairly.

Most of these employees work as escorts responsible for collecting those facing deportation from designated detention centres and accompanying them to the airport.

Multiple cases have been lodged

It is thought that at least 15 cases have been filed against the Home Office so far in the tribunal. At least 6 of these cases include racial discrimination, whilst many more relate to unfair dismissal and a small number to sexual harassment.

After investigations took place, it was found that multiple complaints had been made just 2 years earlier, but these complaints failed to be escalated by the organisation at the time.

The tribunal panel has since said they are “deeply concerned” about the allegations that have been made against Mitie.

A Spokesperson from Mitie has said:

“We take all complaints and concerns raised by our colleagues very seriously. Some of these claims were raised four years ago and are still being processed due to a pause in tribunals during Covid-19. While we cannot comment on individual cases, all reports of inappropriate behaviour are fully investigated and colleagues who do not adhere to our culture and values have no place in our business.”

When asked, the Home Office expressed that they will not be commenting on the matter.