NASUWT Reports Teachers Won £15m in Compensation Claims in 2018

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Education News

30 July, 2019

Ridwaan_Omar
Ridwaan Omar
Partner and Head of Regulatory

It has been reported by the National Association of Schoolmasters Union of Women Teachers (NASUWT) that during 2018 they secured compensation of £14,933,905.34 for its teacher members. The sums were awarded as a result of claims for accidents, attacks by pupils, and employment disputes.

Without a doubt, reports of such significant sums being paid by way of compensation to teachers is a source of serious concern to schools. Schools are also facing increasing numbers of claims from injured pupils and visitors.

To be in a position to avoid claims for compensation and/ or to successfully defend claims for compensation, schools should ensure that they:

  • have appropriate and clear policies in place which are communicated to staff and regularly updated, including an accident reporting policy which is shared with everyone at induction and rolled out to current employees,
  • make appropriate use of risk assessments and method statements which are reviewed on a regular basis,
  • retain important records,
  • ensure staff are well trained,
  • keep the minutes of meetings where staff are reminded about training or warned against taking short cuts,
  • provide appropriate personal protective equipment,
  • ensure equipment is suitable and adequately maintained,
  • record all accidents in an accident report book,
  • investigate complaints/accidents/ incidents as soon as possible after the event and keep relevant records and if possible take photographs.

Forbes Comment

Schools are facing more claims from staff and pupils than ever before. Claims for compensation can have a real impact on insurance premiums as well as adversely affecting the school in terms of publicity. If an accident/ incident occurs then a prompt investigation to obtain statements and photographs can provide crucial evidence to assist in the defence or a swift dismissal of a claim.

Source: https://www.nasuwt.org.uk/article-listing/nasuwt-compensation-figures-2018.html

For more information contact Ridwaan Omar in our Insurance department via email or phone on 01254 222457. Alternatively send any question through to Forbes Solicitors via our online Contact Form.

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