Government proposals for a single tribunal service to deal with cases including unfair dismissal and sexual discrimination could lead to more claims, according to Allianz Cornhill head of Lawphone, Sheena Lindegaard.

Lindegaard warned that reforms could result in more claims on technicalities if employers or employees did not follow proposed procedures.

She said: "The new reforms require employers to take certain disciplinary steps and require employees to ensure grievances are dealt directly with the employer, with the aim for both parties to resolve their disputes between themselves.

"However, if the employer fails to follow certain basic steps, a dismissal case could be automatically deemed unfair just based on technicalities."

But Lindegaard welcomed a shake-up of the system, saying: "The legal expenses insurance industry welcomes reforms that give greater access to justice.

With the high number of claims - 115,042 in the past year - disputes need to be resolved as quickly and cheaply as possible."

The 2025 Insurance Times Awards took place on the evening of Wednesday 3rd December in the iconic Great Room of London’s Grosvenor House.

Hosted by comedian and actor Tom Allen, 34 Gold, 23 Silver and 22 Bronze awards were handed out across an amazing 34 categories recognising brilliance and innovation right across the breadth of UK general insurance.
Many congratulations to all the worthy winners and as always, huge thanks to our sponsors for their support and our judges for their expertise.

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