Case Study 7: Karen Farquharson’s case against Thistle Marine

Farquharson’s case against Thistle Marine

Overview

• Initiated: 2021
• Provider: Diageo
• Target Group: Karen Farquharson (individual) against Thistle Marine (company)
• Goal:

To assert her right to fair treatment and recognition of her symptoms, which she achieved through the tribunal process. .

Key Actions

• Karen raised her menopause symptoms with her employer
• She was dismissed and faced harassment and mistreatment
• Karen took legal action
• An employment tribunal found in her favour awarding a 37.000 pounds payout

Impact

• Karen gained legal validation for her claims along with a payout
• The case brought awareness to the broader issue of menopause in the workplace

Success Factors

• Karen’s success in the tribunal process highlights the importance of knowing one’s rights
• Effectiveness of standing up to a company when facing discrimination

Challenges for the company:

• The company lacked awareness and understanding
• Manager’s dismissive attitude towards menopause contributed to a toxic workplace