A series of employment law seminars are being held by a prominent Cumbrian law firm.

Baines Wilson is holding the events in Penrith, Newby Bridge and Lancaster this month.

The firm is urging all local businesses to look at their employment policies to ensure that they are up to date and complying with current legislation, as the number of employees making claims against their employers’ triple, local law firm.

In July 2017, tribunal fees were abolished, leading to a dramatic rise in the number of employees bringing claims against their employers.

According to Ministry of Justice figures, between April and June this year, the number of claims tripled.

The highest payouts were for disability discrimination, with an average compensation award of £30,700.

Joanne Holborn, head of employment at Baines Wilson, said: "Many companies are being taken by surprise by the vast increase in claims being made by current and former employees – claims that are costing businesses large sums of money.

"There is no doubt that we have a fantastic business culture here in Cumbria.

"However, employment law is not only complex, but changes constantly too.

"We strongly advise all businesses to review their employment policies and procedures to ensure they are fully compliant with the law.

"Additionally, recent figures show that, despite the #MeToo movement, four in 10 women are being sexually harassed at work.

"We therefore expect to see a rise in sexual harassment claims as well. The Government may make it mandatory for all businesses to have a sexual harassment policy in place and I would advise any businesses that don't already have a policy on quality and diversity and bullying and harassment to implement one as soon as they can."

The seminars take place at The Swan, Newby Bridge, on Thursday October 11, Rheged, Penrith on Tuesday October 16 and Forrest Hills, Lancaster, on Thursday October 18.

For more information, visit www.baineswilson.co.uk/calendar/list