Indian origin healthcare worker called ‘auntie’ wins UK legal case
LONDON, April 8: An Indian-origin healthcare assistant employed with the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), Ilda Esteves, has won a harassment claim after being repeatedly referred to as “auntie” by a colleague, staff nurse Charles Oppong, of Ghanaian heritage.
The Watford Employment Tribunal ruled that Esteves was harassed on the grounds of age and sex, ordering the West London NHS Trust to pay £1,425.15 in damages for injury to feelings.
The tribunal acknowledged that “auntie” is a term of respect for older people in Ghanaian culture. However, it found that Oppong, responsible for leading ward teams, misused the term, likely as an offensive attempt at humor.
The comments, made in offices, corridors, and during handovers, created an offensive environment, which the tribunal deemed reasonable for Esteves to perceive as harassment. Esteves, 61, testified that she repeatedly asked to be addressed by her first name, yet Oppong continued using “auntie” and made additional remarks about her being a good match for an older colleague, which she found offensive.
The incidents occurred over a short period between June and September 2023. While the tribunal recognized the cultural context, it concluded that using the term against Esteves’ wishes constituted harassment. The judgment highlights that cultural norms do not override an individual’s right to a respectful workplace.
Esteves had also sought anonymity for the proceedings, which the tribunal denied, citing the public interest in the open administration of justice. Her other claims, including harassment based on race, discrimination, victimization, and unauthorized deduction of wages, were dismissed.
This case emphasizes the importance of respecting personal boundaries and workplace preferences, even when cultural practices are involved. It reinforces the NHS’s responsibility to provide a professional environment free from harassment, particularly regarding age and gender.
The ruling sets a precedent that terms intended as respectful in one culture can still constitute harassment if they create an offensive or unwelcome environment for the recipient. (AP)
