Pets providing emotional support to assist mental health

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Pets providing emotional support to assist mental health

In Cullingford v Secretary of State for Justice 2024, the employment tribunal held that the employer was not obliged to permit the claimant to have her dog accompany her in her car for work by way of a reasonable adjustment. Mrs Cullingford, a County Court Bailiff suffered from anxiety linked to cancer and the presence of her dog provided her with emotional support at work. It was not the principle that being accompanied by a pet would not be a reasonable adjustment, but the way Mrs Cullingford pleaded her case. Unfortunately, this case emphasises the importance of getting expert legal advice about presenting the matters (legal issues and evidence) for the Tribunal to consider, when bringing complex tribunal proceedings.

Ms D Cullingford v The Secretary of State for Justice: 1803055/2022 - GOV.UK

Article by

Louise Maynard

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Disclaimer

The above provides a general overview of areas in employment law and is not intended nor construed as providing specific legal advice.

This article is for information purposes only and is correct at the time of publication. It does not constitute legal advice.

09.11.24

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