Landmark Sex Discrimination Case

Former firearms officer Rebecca Kalam has been awarded a substantial £820,000 payout following her successful sex discrimination case against West Midlands Police.

Rebecca Kalam, a former firearms officer, has secured a comprehensive payout of over £820,000 after triumphing in a sex discrimination case against West Midlands Police. Initially granted £30,000 at an employment tribunal in November, this latest compensation covers loss of earnings and her pension.

The discrimination case unveiled disturbing incidents, including Kalam being stripped down to her underwear during a training exercise and a male officer pushing her down with his foot on her neck while doing press-ups, accompanied by inappropriate comments about her physique.

Deputy Chief Constable Scott Green expressed apologies for the “significant impact” Kalam endured, acknowledging delayed actions in addressing the serious issues raised during the tribunal. The force admitted fault, confirming three serving firearms officers are currently suspended, and 10 are undergoing disciplinary procedures.

Mrs. Kalam had aspired to become chief constable, stating that she cherished her role and aimed to reform the discriminatory culture from within the department. The tribunal panel’s unanimous decision to award her compensation for loss of earnings and pension underscores the severity of the case.

The Metropolitan Police Federation, supporting Kalam, emphasized the need for internal protection within the organization, questioning its ability to honestly safeguard the public if internal behavior is compromised.

The West Midlands Police, yet to disclose the expenses incurred in legal fees defending the case, released a statement highlighting that the issues date back to 2012. However, recent leadership changes in the firearms department over the past two years have strived to improve the overall culture, standards, and working environment.

Deputy Chief Constable Green asserted that policing should not tolerate misogynistic or discriminatory behavior, emphasizing the force’s commitment to upholding the highest standards of conduct and professionalism. Despite the tribulations faced, he conveyed the force’s dedication to progress and the restoration of public trust in fulfilling their duty to protect the community.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The BBC News