By Gazette reporter >>

(12 June 2026)

Employment tribunal backlogs continue to multiply, resulting in severe delays that are denying both employees and businesses access to justice, the Law Society said today. 

At the end of March, 64,000 single cases remained open – an increase of 42% on last year, with the backlog steadily rising month after month, official figures revealed.  

‘It is alarming to see employment tribunal backlogs continuing to spiral,’ said Society president Mark Evans. ‘Prolonged periods of uncertainty as cases wait to be heard are likely to take a high toll personally and financially, hitting both individuals and businesses hard.

‘The situation remains urgent. We welcome the Justice Select Committee’s decision to launch an inquiry into employment tribunal backlogs, which must now lead to measured and meaningful action.

‘With the Employment Rights Bill now passed and set to increase demand on the system further, the government must act without delay to ensure employment tribunals are properly funded and resourced. Swift justice is a vital public service, not a luxury.’

(Courtesy: The Law Society Gazette)