Nadine Fallone, a former bar manager at Peckham Levels in South London, has been awarded £33,080 in compensation after being unfairly dismissed for whistleblowing on workplace misconduct. The South London employment tribunal found that Fallone’s disclosures about on-shift drinking, staff theft, and drug use were the primary reasons for her termination. The tribunal also noted the detrimental impact on Fallone’s mental health due to the toxic work environment and retaliatory actions by senior staff.
The conflict began when Fallone reported incidents of staff consuming alcohol on duty, stealing, and using cocaine at work parties. Despite raising her concerns with her line manager and other senior staff, she was met with indifference. Her complaints were dismissed, and she was labeled a “troublemaker” and isolated by management.
As the situation escalated, Fallone’s mental health deteriorated, leading her to take a medical leave. Despite her efforts to address the misconduct, she was abruptly dismissed under the guise of “business reasons.” The tribunal found that Fallone was subjected to hostility from her colleagues, ostracized, and denied opportunities to address her grievances, further impacting her mental health.
The tribunal ruled in May 2024 that Fallone’s disclosures were made in the public interest to address health and safety risks posed by drug and alcohol use in the workplace. The judge criticized senior managers for displaying hostility towards Fallone and contributing to a toxic work environment. Peckham Levels was ordered to pay over £33,000 in compensation to Fallone for lost wages and psychological harm.
This case serves as a reminder for employers to address workplace misconduct transparently and protect employees who raise legitimate concerns. Employers must carefully consider and justify dismissals to avoid claims of retaliation or unfair treatment. The importance of fostering a culture of accountability and respect in the workplace is emphasized as Peckham Levels moves forward from this legal battle.
