Thomas Cook staff join forces to fight for compensation

Hundreds of Thomas Cook staff are pulling together to fight for extra compensation through a little-known employment law.

If successful, they will get thousands of pounds in addition to their statutory redundancy pay.

A Facebook group has been set up by former Thomas Cook social media lead Claire Hoang, who was based at the company’s Cardinal House office in Manchester.

She originally set up the group to help all staff who are not members of a union, saying they would have to fend for themselves when it comes to claiming what’s due to them.

But since the group has gained momentum – it now has nearly 1,200 members – some former staff say they have been told by Unite they can join at a reduced rate for those affected.

A spokesman for Unite told TravelMole it was ‘under discussion’.

"Unite has not yet taken a decision on whether workers who were not part of the union will be entitled to join and receive its support in any subsequent legal claim. This matter is currently under discussion," he said.

Under the ‘protective award’ scheme, workers can claim for compensation of up to 90 days’ pay where an employer hasn’t followed the correct redundancy consultation process.

It’s only available to staff in a workplace with at least 20 staff.

"Obviously for the 1,000 people working in the Peterborough head office it should be OK, but it’s not so easy for the people who used to work in the satellite offices, or the people the airports who weren’t crew, like safety or catering," said Hoang.

"We’ve been treated very badly and we deserve this. Everyone has got the right and shouldn’t be scared about pursuing a claim. This group is here to support everyone.

"When everyone’s going to be living on their credit cards in the next few months, this could be a lifesaver."

Meanwhile, the girlfriend of one former Thomas Cook employee has set up a free workshop in Altrincham, Greater Manchester, next month to support those who are now jobless.

Local businesses will be offering free advice on mental wellbeing, job seeking, interview skills and technology skills. A local photograher is offering free head shots to help with job applications.

The event is taking place on October 21 at Altrincham Library 10am-4pm. Attendees will need proof of Thomas Cook employment on arrival, such as August’s payslip.

ABTA Lifeline has set up a JustGiving page to raise funds for emergency support for former Thomas Cook staff who are struggling financially. It says many are now relyin gon food banks to support them

"Some are single mothers, families that all worked at Thomas Cook, on maternity leave, sick leave or supporting another sick member of the family. The affect this has had on the public is devastating and enquiries are flooding in since day one," says the charity.

"We are only a small charity and are doing our very best to supply emergency support to those affected by bridging the gap until they find some sense of stability and security."

Anyone who needs support, or who knows of someone who needs support, should fill out the Urgent Assistance Form.