Equal Pay - Time Limits

We've had a rash of enquiries recently about whether any time limits apply to making an equal pay claim.

The answer is - YES - and it's very important the time limits are observed, otherwise even the strongest claim will be regarded as 'out of time' - and will not be entertained by the Employment Tribunals.

The general rule is that people have six months to register an equal pay claim with the tribunals - if they:

1. retire from employment altogether
2. leave their current employer (for another job or no job)
3. take up another job with the same employer - that involves a change of contract

The first two categories are very straightforward, but it's not always clear when a new job (with the same employer) involves a change of contract.

Generally speaking a new contract would be issued for a completely different job - not the same job in a new location or the same job on different hours.

But it's better to be safe than sorry - so always ask for advice - a quick phone call or e-mail will do the trick.

Many people in London have not been advised properly on these issues - both by their employers and the trade unions - and have lost out as a result.