5 October 2009: The Employment Appeal Tribunal has given its judgement in the case of Da’Bell V NSPCC. In the decision, HHJ McMullen QC has increased Vento damages, which are awarded for injury to feelings in discrimination cases. The increases are as follows:

• Lower Band: Increase from £5,000 to £6,000
• Middle Band: Increase from £15,000 to £18,000
• Upper Band: Increase from £25,000 TO £30,000

The Vento principle is often used during mediation of cases involving an element of discrimination. It can help parties think about what might happen in the event that their dispute isn’t settled during mediation.

The judgement was handed down on 29 September 2009 and is effective immediately.