People who criticise the ‘compensation culture’ may try to use an upcoming case as an example. The Reverend Mark Sharpe has announced he has been bullied at work again and is headed for an Employment Tribunal, according to recent reports by the BBC. Previously, Mr Sharpe has made a successful compensation claim against the Ministry of Defence.

When serving in the navy as a chaplain during 2004, Mr Sharpe was on board the HMS Albion. He claimed that he suffered sexual harassment during his two weeks on ship and alleged that pornographic material was used to bully him. Mr Sharpe won his case and received an unknown amount of compensation. Employees can make successful compensation claims if they have evidence to support their contentions. They generally have a better chance of winning if they receive high quality guidance from experts in the field.

Mr Sharpe is now launching an action against the Diocese of Worcester. He contends that his family and his health have been affected by bullying. He argues that his employer did not actually fulfil its obligations to him in terms of its duty of care. He has listed concrete examples of alleged bullying and has detailed the impact the behaviour has apparently had. He is supported by the union Unite. Unite maintain that they know of many cases in which members of the clergy have been treated poorly.

‘Compensation claims sceptics’ may look on repeated claims with cynicism, but bullying in the workplace is a serious issue and the threat of compensation claims can stop bullies from behaving badly.