Truck driver awarded £19,042 in compensation after colleague accused her of offering sexual favors

A British employment tribunal has awarded a truck driver £19,042 in compensation after her colleague accused her of exploiting her physical appearance and offering sexual favors to secure benefits at work.

Charlotte Brooks, who was employed as an HGV driver by Co-op, said Kerry Dawson’s comments were part of conduct that had made her feel bullied and harassed for around two years, according to The Sun.

The case was heard by an employment tribunal in Exeter, Devon, with allegations of sexual harassment and direct discrimination on the grounds of sex at the center of the proceedings.

Evidence presented during the hearing showed that Dawson had made offensive statements about Brooks while the two were training to drive heavy goods vehicles. On another occasion in 2024, Brooks also received a voice message containing derogatory comments about her appearance.

Following an internal investigation, Co-op initially dismissed Dawson. However, she challenged the decision and, after an appeal, the dismissal was changed to a written warning.

Dawson’s return to work had serious consequences for Brooks. She said she experienced stress and distress, while her emotional state forced her to take time off work.

Employment Judge Paula Volkmer found that the comments directed at Brooks met the criteria for sexual harassment. She said that during the appeal process, insufficient attention had been paid both to the seriousness of the conduct and to its impact on the employee.

According to the judge, the way the matter had been handled also showed a tendency to minimize the sexual nature of the harassment.

At the conclusion of the claim brought against Co-op, the tribunal ruled that Brooks should receive £19,042 in compensation.