Office worker awarded £22,000 for discrimination case

Ozgul Coban receives over £22,000 after being discriminated against for her Crohn's disease.

Office worker wins substantial payout for disability discrimination

Ozgul Coban, who suffered from Crohn's disease, has won more than £22,000 in a discrimination claim against her employer, Manes Partners. After just eight weeks of employment, Coban faced pressure from her boss, Alper Ozcelyan, who suggested the firm might need to 'chart a different path' due to her health-related absences. Coban had taken only seven days off for treatment and was upfront about her condition during her interview. The tribunal found that the company showed no consideration for reasonable adjustments that could help her remain employed, providing her with a definitive ruling that her treatment was influenced by her disability.

This case highlights a critical issue in workplace disability rights and the need for employers to implement clear policies. Despite her openness about Crohn's disease, Coban faced pressure to resign instead of receiving the understanding and support she deserved. The tribunal's decision reinforces the responsibility of companies to foster inclusive workplaces where employees can thrive regardless of their health conditions. This ruling may serve as a wake-up call to businesses, urging them to reassess their management of employee health issues and make necessary adjustments to support their staff.

Highlights

This case sets a precedent that may influence how businesses address disability in the workplace.