Bournemouth’s former 151 officer loses tribunal claim
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Bournemouth Town Hall
A section 151 officer has lost her claim that she was constructively dismissed for raising awkward questions about an outsourcing contract.
Liz Wilkinson resigned from her position as executive director for finance at Bournemouth Borough Council in October 2014 after complaints about her behaviour were made by senior officers.
An employment tribunal has now rejected her claim that she was constructively dismissed after raising concerns about value for money relating to a contract the council signed with supplier Mouchel in 2010.
Speaking to Room151 this week, Wilkinson said: “We believed we had an extremely strong case and that it was even stronger after the witnesses gave evidence. My barrister and I were expecting to win and were in considerable shock after hearing the verdict.”
Wilkinson added that she was also concerned about the implications of the verdict for others who find themselves in the same position as herself.
“Section 151 officers are in a vulnerable position. They are expected to act in good faith and courage and say what they think with integrity and stand up to organisations. That is what I have done.”
Welcoming the tribunal’s verdict, the council’s chief executive Tony Williams said: “The tribunal has found in favour of Bournemouth Borough Council in relation to all elements of this claim. Whilst we need time to fully digest the Tribunal’s judgment, we are of course pleased with the decision.
“To be clear, this ruling means that Mrs Wilkinson did not make any protected disclosures and was not constructively dismissed by the council. The evidence of council staff has been found to be credible and compelling.
“On this point, I must pay sincere and grateful tribute to all those staff who gave witness statements to the tribunal and, in particular, those who gave evidence on the witness stand.
“The stress suffered by our staff and, for some, the requirement to participate in a protracted and avoidable legal process, should not be under-estimated.
“It is testament to the strength of character of those individuals that they agreed to give evidence.”
Wilkinson, who said she had spent a “considerable amount” on legal fees, was considering whether to appeal against the tribunal’s verdict.
Bournemouth’s 10-year partnership with Mouchel (now part of Kier) covers benefits, ICT facilities management, finance, human resources and payroll services, while a separate strand is targeted at supporting the council’s efficiency and transformation programme and saving 40% of the council’s budget.
The contract also covers other commitments including job creation and shared services.
