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Rundlewalker Solicitors Supports Bid to Repeal Workplace Injury Legislation.

Roger Henderson, Head of the Personal Injury Team at Rundlewalker Solicitors in Exeter and a long-standing member of the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL), has voiced his support for an amendment to the Employment Rights Bill. This amendment, proposed by Chris Law MP of Dundee Central, seeks to repeal section 69 of the Enterprise and Regulatory Reform Act 2013, a piece of legislation widely criticised for increasing the complexity and uncertainty of workplace injury claims.

Introduced by the Coalition Government, section 69 removed the statutory right of injured workers to claim compensation for breaches of health and safety regulations by their employers. Gordon Dalyell, treasurer of APIL, explains the far-reaching consequences of this change:
“Until 2013, injured workers could claim compensation if their employers breached health and safety regulations. Section 69 took this route to justice away, leaving injured employees to rely almost exclusively on common law. This requires demonstrating negligence, which is particularly challenging in the workplace where employers control the environment, equipment, and access to crucial information.”

APIL has been a staunch opponent of section 69 since its inception and has been working closely with Chris Law MP to highlight its damaging effects. “Recent judicial decisions show just how much more complex and uncertain it has become for injured workers to bring claims against employers. There is a genuine concern that many workplace injury victims are unable to even begin the claims process,” Gordon Dalyell added.

Alarming Trends Highlight the Urgency.
The need for reform is underscored by data analysed by APIL from the Compensation Recovery Unit and the Health and Safety Executive (HSE). Between 2018 and 2024, the number of workers with injuries requiring over seven days of absence or who developed work-related illnesses rose by 16 per cent. Over the same period, however, employers’ liability compensation claims dropped by a staggering 50 per cent.
“These figures reveal a troubling disconnect between the number of injured workers and the claims being pursued. Many workers appear to be falling through the cracks, unable to hold employers accountable under the current legal framework,” Gordon said.

A Call to Action.
Mr Law’s proposed amendment represents a vital opportunity to rectify this imbalance and restore fairness to workplace injury claims. APIL has briefed Mr Law extensively on the detrimental impact of section 69, and Roger Henderson fully supports their position.
“At Rundlewalker, we see first-hand the challenges faced by injured workers trying to seek justice under the current system. Repealing section 69 would go a long way in simplifying the process and ensuring injured employees have a fair chance to claim the compensation they deserve,” Roger commented.

"This amendment, if passed, would mark a significant step towards restoring the rights of injured workers and ensuring that employers are held accountable for breaches of health and safety regulations. Rundlewalker Solicitors stands firmly alongside APIL in calling for this overdue reform."

Specialist Accident & Injury Claim Services - Exeter Personal Injury Solicitors.
Rundlewalker is a firm of experienced Personal Injury Solicitors, recovering many thousands of pounds worth of compensation for accident victims every year. If you have had an accident or suffered an injury that was someone else's fault, please contact us on 01392 209209 to discuss your situation. If preferred, please complete the short Enquiry Form or Email us.

There are several ways in which a personal injury claim can be funded, including a "No Win No Fee" agreement (Conditional Fee Agreement), which we will discuss with you during your initial assessment.

At Rundlewalker Solicitors, we have achieved our success by ensuring that all clients can obtain access to legal advice immediately and therefore access to justice with enormous peace of mind. We are committed to maximising compensation, obtaining rehabilitation for clients when needed, and making the claim as simple and straightforward as possible.

See how we can help with your Claim. For immediate, compassionate advice contact our Personal Injury Team who are ready to help you. 01392 209209.

If you or someone you know have suffered a workplace accident or injury, contact us now to discuss your legal situation and we can advise you of the options available to you. For more information, call Roger Henderson on 01392 209218 or email roger.henderson@rundlewalker.com.

“I came to Rundlewalker nervous and unsure if I had a claim for the psychological trauma I had experienced. Roger was patient and honest with me throughout the process and with his knowledge, competence and persistence, I was awarded a good settlement.“ Google 5-Star Review.

"Thank you to Rundlewalker for the excellent help and advice given for my personal injury case. Roger was experienced, diligent, knowledgeable and highly organised, as well as great at providing updates at each step of the way. The USP for me (amidst a  variety of alternative online offers) is that the firm is LOCAL and accessible, and it's possible to speak to a lawyer in person; this can make all the difference, especially when the going gets tough, and this generates trust." Anon.

“I am very pleased with the outcome of my claim and was awarded a very large settlement thanks to Roger Henderson and his team at Rundlewalker. I felt assured that everything was taken into account and I was kept thoroughly informed throughout the entire claim process. Roger went above my expectation to get me the compensation I deserved, following an horrendous RTA. I would have no hesitation in recommending this firm to anyone who is seeking an honest and professional service.”

This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal or professional advice.Please note that the law may have changed since this article was published.