Lesbian Soldier Wins Discrimination Claim

A lesbian soldier has won her claim against the Ministry of Defence for sex discrimination and discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation which caused her to give up her career in the army.

Leeds Employment Tribunal heard that Kerry Fletcher, 31, was subjected to unwanted advances made by a male sergeant who asked her to join in group sex and sent her a text message saying, "Look, I might be able to convert you. You don’t know what you are missing." When she spurned his advances, he and other male colleagues tried to ruin her career. After she made an official complaint, her car was damaged on more than one occasion. As a result, Miss Fletcher was signed off sick after having served 10 years in the Army.

Miss Fletcher’s claim for compensation of over £400,000 is based on injury to her feelings in addition to the wages she would have received had she stayed in the Army for a further 12 years, which was her stated intention before the incidents took place.

A remedy hearing will now take place to determine the level of any compensation award.

"There is no upper limit to the compensation that can be awarded in discrimination cases," says Yair Cohen. "Employers should take any complaint of victimisation, harassment or bullying seriously and take steps to change a workplace culture in which stereotypical and discriminatory opinions are tolerated. We can assist you in implementing discrimination and workplace bullying policies specifically tailored to meet the needs of your business."

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