TUC criticises plan to stop injured workers reclaiming legal costs

Thursday 23 February 2017: For immediate release

The TUC has today (Thursday) criticised plans to stop injured workers from reclaiming their legal costs in cases where claims are worth under £2,000.

New Ministry of Justice proposals will force many workers, including those on low incomes, to pay for legal advice when seeking compensation for injuries at work.

These new rules will apply even when employer negligence is found to be the cause of workplace injuries.

TUC General Secretary, Frances O’Grady said: “People injured at work because of their employer's negligence shouldn't have to pay their own legal costs. This will stop many low-paid and vulnerable workers from bringing claims.

“These plans are dangerous and will encourage bad bosses to cut corners with health and safety.

“My advice to workers is to join a union. There are 50% fewer accidents at unionised workplaces.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

- A copy of the MOJ announcement can be found here: https://consult.justice.gov.uk/digital-communications/reforming-soft-tissue-injury-claims/
- All TUC press releases can be found at tuc.org.uk/media
- TUC Press Office on Twitter: @tucnews

Contacts:
Press Office  T: 020 7467 1248  E: media@tuc.org.uk
Alex Rossiter  T: 020 7467 1285  M: 07887 572130  E: arossiter@tuc.org.uk
Tim Nichols  T: 020 7467 1388  M: 07808 761844  E: tnichols@tuc.org.uk
Elly Gibson (Mon to Thurs) T: 020 7467 1337  M: 07900 910624  E: egibson@tuc.org.uk
Michael Pidgeon  T: 020 7467 1372  M: 07717 531150  E: mpidgeon@tuc.org.uk