Claims struck out after failing to pay £50 deposit or provide further particulars

This case shows the importance of complying with tribunal orders, no matter how small the amount. A former employee had their entire claim struck out after failing to pay a £50 deposit and provide further particulars by the deadline. The tribunal had made a deposit order because it considered the claim had little reasonable prospect of success, but the claimant still needed to pay it to keep the claim alive.

What went wrong

The claimant's union representative did not attend the hearing where the strike-out was ordered. The tribunal had given clear deadlines: pay the £50 deposit and provide further particulars by 7 January 2023. When the claimant failed to do either, Employment Judge Postle struck out the claims. The later application for reconsideration was also refused, as the judge found no reasonable prospect of the original decision being varied or revoked.

What the respondent could have done differently

The respondent, Sainsburys Supermarkets Ltd, acted correctly by applying for strike-out when the orders were not complied with. The tribunal's decision was based on the claimant's failure, not the respondent's conduct.

Why this matters

This case is a reminder that tribunals expect strict compliance with case management orders. Even a small deposit order must be paid on time. If you cannot meet a deadline, you must apply for an extension before it expires. Ignoring orders can result in your entire claim being thrown out, with no second chance.