Raoul Parekh | Source | Associate at GQ Littler

Many businesses facing an employment claim feel like they are operating under a cloud until that claim is dealt with. That's why it's important to get these claims dealt with quickly, but at current trend employment tribunals will soon reach breaking point. Eight-month delays are just not sustainable and can be very challenging for both parties involved. On this kind of timeline, it is not uncommon for key witnesses to leave, move to other roles or countries, and memories can also fade.

A severe lack of resources means delays are endemic across the whole tribunals system - even when calling the employment tribunals inquiries helpline, you can be waiting for hours. If no material increase in funding arises then authorities may need to look at more creative solutions. Options put forward include introducing a new step in the tribunals process which gives both parties a chance to settle before a case is heard in court.