'I haven't had a penny of £35k compensation from bar that sacked me'

Ana Machado, a mother originally from Brazil and currently residing in Liverpool, was awarded over £35,000 in compensation following her dismissal from the Coyote Ugly Saloon bar in Liverpool. Despite winning an employment tribunal nearly six months ago, which found her termination discriminatory and an act of harassment due to her nationality, she claims she has yet to receive any payment. The bar was formerly operated by Swansea Audio Ltd, the employer held responsible by the tribunal.

Machado lost her job on 31 December 2022, after working at the establishment for a year in what was her first employment since moving to the UK. The dismissal came after she was confronted regarding alleged mishandling of money, during which she reports being accused of being more likely to steal because she sent money to her family back in Brazil. She described the moment as extremely distressing, leading to panic attacks and severe anxiety that affected her mental health profoundly. “Never in a million years was I expecting that,” she recalled, highlighting the shock of the situation.

The aftermath of losing her job had significant financial repercussions. Machado, a 31-year-old single parent, struggled to make ends meet during the months following Christmas and was forced to rely on food banks and help with utility bills. Although she later secured employment at a Hooters restaurant in Liverpool, it closed in January, leaving her once again without steady income. Determined to clear her name, Machado represented herself at the tribunal in what she described as a “David vs. Goliath” battle, ultimately winning the case, but the compensation remains unpaid.

The company, Swansea Audio Ltd, did not respond regarding the outstanding payment; however, its director Steve Lewis confirmed that he established a new company, Coyote Ugly Liverpool Ltd, prior to the tribunal. Machado expressed frustration and a sense of injustice, saying, “It feels so unfair,” noting that Swansea Audio Ltd’s financial records show substantial losses. Lewis stated that the new company’s creation was planned well before the tribunal and unrelated to Machado’s case, emphasizing that employees were transferred under TUPE regulations. Despite this, Machado fears that she may never receive the compensation she is owed, perceiving the situation as an example of how large companies can evade responsibility

Read the full article from The BBC here: Read More