Pilkington UK Pays £329,000 to Disabled Worker Sacked After Covert Surveillance
Alan Jones, 59, has received a £329,000 settlement from glass-making firm Pilkington UK Ltd, concluding a six-year legal battle over his unfair dismissal. Jones, who had served the St Helens-based company since 1983, was sacked after his employer deployed a surveillance firm to monitor him, suspecting he was working whilst on sick leave.
Jones developed radiation-induced neuropathy, an incurable condition stemming from Hodgkin's lymphoma treatment he received at 21. This left him with debilitating pain and weakness, rendering him unable to perform manual work. He had anticipated returning to a light-duty role, but his employer initiated disciplinary proceedings in 2019.
The company engaged Mike India Five Ltd, a surveillance firm, after a former colleague reported seeing Jones in ‘work boots’ at a friend’s farm in Cronton, Cheshire. Jones contended that the surveillance extended to his family. During a disciplinary hearing for gross misconduct, Pilkington UK Ltd presented video footage showing Jones briefly handling a bag of potatoes and a hose while at the farm. The company interpreted this as evidence of him working, despite not seeking independent medical evidence regarding his condition or capabilities.
Jones described his dismissal as a profound betrayal after decades of loyal service. Unite, his trade union, supported his legal challenge. An employment tribunal in 2021 found in Jones's favour, ruling he had been unfairly discriminated against due to his disability. Pilkington UK Ltd’s subsequent appeal in 2023 was dismissed, leading to negotiations over damages.
A spokesperson for Pilkington UK Ltd acknowledged the firm 'fell short with Mr Jones' and had conducted an 'in-depth review' to prevent similar incidents. Jones, who underwent a double bypass operation in 2024, attributed to the stress of his situation, stated the financial compensation was secondary to achieving justice and ensuring no one else endured similar treatment.
Bernie Wentworth of Thompsons Solicitors, representing Jones, criticised employers who make assumptions about disabled workers rather than understanding their medical conditions. Stephen Pinder, Unite’s legal director, emphasised that Jones, a long-serving employee, deserved support, not suspicion and dismissal.
