Aberystwyth University Cleaner Wins £264,442 Unfair Dismissal Payout Over Rice Cooker Dispute

A former part-time cleaner at Aberystwyth University has been awarded more than £264,000 after an employment tribunal found she was unfairly dismissed. Peak Ong, 72, was terminated in 2021 following accusations she breached a confidential agreement stemming from a mediation hearing. This hearing itself arose from a long-standing dispute with her manager, Catherine Green, including an allegation that Ms Ong was accused of supplying a student with a rice cooker, an item banned in university residential buildings.

The employment tribunal concluded that no warning was issued to Ms Ong indicating that a breach of the mediation agreement could lead to disciplinary action. Furthermore, the tribunal found the university had 'victimised' Ms Ong. This victimisation occurred when she lost a job offer at Ceredigion Council and failed to secure other employment because the university provided a reference confirming an 'ongoing dispute'.

Employment Judge Dilbaag Bansal stated, 'We find this was a clear reference to the tribunal claim issued by Ong. We find the university's conduct was irresponsible and retaliatory.' The university's official reason for dismissal cited Ms Ong's failure to improve her conduct post-mediation; however, the tribunal identified significant flaws within the disciplinary process.

Ms Ong, who represented herself at the tribunal, had been employed by the university from November 2014 to May 2022. She had previously made multiple complaints against Ms Green, alleging 'bullying and harassment' and claiming she was targeted due to her age, although the age discrimination claim was dismissed.

A spokesperson for Aberystwyth University acknowledged that 'some procedures were not applied correctly in this instance' and expressed regret for the 'impact this had on those involved', adding that the institution 'respects the tribunal's decision and is reviewing our processes'.