As a general rule you must lodge a claim form with the Industrial Tribunal Office within 3 months of the event you are claiming for. Otherwise you are likely to be time barred from continuing with your claim. The Claim form can be submitted via the Tribunal’s website: https://employmenttribunalsni.co.uk/OITFET_IWS/Login.aspx
Due to a change in the law, from 27th January 2020 anyone who wishes to lodge a claim with the Industrial or Fair Employment Tribunal must first notify the Labour Relations Agency to discuss the option of resolving the issues between the parties. The Claim cannot be lodged until this option is at least considered. Further information can be found at the following link:
https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/early-conciliation-comes-effect-27-january-2020
You do not have to be represented by a Solicitor to bring a claim to the Industrial Tribunal. You can represent yourself. For further advice on the process you can access the following link: https://www.employmenttribunalsni.co.uk/if-you-are-claimant
If you are a member of a trade union they may be able to offer you assistance to pursue your claim. The Citizens advice bureau may also offer assistance, their website can be accessed by the following link https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/about-us/northern-ireland/
The Labour Relations Agency provides free impartial advice to employees. You can access their website at https://www.lra.org.uk/. They also provide a phone line for anyone in Northern Ireland with an employment related query. This service is available on telephone number 03300 555 300.
The Equality Commission can offer advice and assistance for people who feel they have been discriminated against. They can be contacted by email on information@equalityni.org
If you decide that you would like to be legally represented in respect of your case you can contact the Legal Services Agency at enquiries@lsani.gov.uk for advice on your eligibility for legal aid and the application process.
For Holiday pay, working time regulations, unlawful deduction of wages and minimum wage claims the Ulster University Law clinic may also be able to assist. Their website can be accessed at the following link https://www.ulster.ac.uk/lawclinic/clients/can-we-help
You may also wish to check any insurance policies you hold such as motor or home to check if you have the benefit of legal expense insurance, which may provide you with legal help and support and potentially funding to pursue your employment matter. If you have legal expense insurance and decide you would like to instruct us to assist you with the matter please let us know.