An Indian-descendent woman working as a healthcare assistant at the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK has received a compensation of £1,425 (approximately Rs 1.77 lakh) for being referred to as an “auntie” by a colleague, as per a report by The Independent.
Ilda Esteves, aged 64, has been employed at the Women’s Forensic Services department of the West London NHS Trust since September 2022.
Esteves stated that her colleague and team leader, Charles Oppong, persistently addressed her as “auntie” despite her requests to use her proper name. Oppong defended his actions by citing Ghanaian cultural values, explaining that “auntie” is a term of respect for older women and a display of good manners.
In June 2023, Oppong made a comment about Esteves’ lipstick choice, suggesting that she would suit a staff member named George.
In September 2023, Esteves lodged a formal complaint via email about Oppong’s behavior, expressing her concerns about being repeatedly called “auntie” despite her objections.
Esteves proceeded to file a harassment claim against the NHS with the Employment Tribunal, alleging harassment based on her age and gender.
While Oppong admitted to using the term “auntie” once, he argued it was a respectful gesture in Ghanaian culture. However, Employment Judge Alliott emphasized that continuing to use the term after objections was inappropriate and offensive to Esteves.
The tribunal acknowledged Esteves’ genuine distress and ruled in her favor, stating that Oppong’s remarks directly targeted her age and gender, creating an offensive work environment.
Esteves was awarded £1,425 (Rs 1.77 lakh) in compensation as a result of the successful harassment claim.