Injury to feelings awards: increased Vento bands

There has been an increase to the Vento bands, used by the Employment Tribunal (ET) for injury to feelings awards after the annual update.

The new Vento bands for claims brought on or after 6 April 2026 are:

What are the Vento bands? 

These ‘bands’ guide the ET in deciding on compensation for injury to feelings, most commonly in discrimination claims and whistleblowing claims.

ET Judges use their discretion, based on the facts of each case, to decide which band applies and where within that band the compensation should sit. ET Judges will consider the nature of the conduct and the effect on the employee. It is separate to financial loss and is designed to compensate for the emotional impact that the Claimant has suffered.

Why are they important? 

Although the increase is to reflect inflation, the increase to the Vento bands brings with it an increase to financial exposure and risk where claims of discrimination or whistleblowing are brought. Injury to feelings awards can be substantial, and, in exceptional cases, that compensation can be uncapped.

With that in mind, early resolution, conciliation and even settlement discussions are important. It also may affect the strategy taken when faced with an employment tribunal claim.

Steps employers can take 

To help protect against claims with potential injury to feelings awards, employers can:

• Review equality and whistleblowing policies;

• Train managers – so they know how to recognise and respond to discrimination and complaints;

• Take grievances and complaints seriously – by investigating promptly and carefully documenting decisions; and

• Consider the Vento bands when faced with ACAS early conciliation or without prejudice discussions.

If you need assistance with a discrimination or whistleblowing claim, please contact one of the Employment team.