While most employees trust their employer to handle a workplace injury fairly, the system often leaves them on their own. It’s only after an accident that many realise how little protection they actually have. In 2023/24 alone, approximately 1.7 million workers in Great Britain reported suffering from work-related ill health, while 604,000 people experienced non-fatal injuries at work.
Tragically, in 2024/25, 124 workers lost their lives in work-related accidents during the same period. While efforts to improve workplace safety continue, these numbers show just how common workplace injury and illness still are.
Despite this, many employees worry that making a workplace injury claim could put their jobs at risk. At Claim Time Solicitors, we’re here to guide you through every step and make sure you’re not facing these challenges on your own.
In this blog, we’ll outline your legal rights in the UK and explain what to do if you’ve been fired for getting injured at work or are worried about losing your job after filing a personal injury claim.
What’s in this blog?
Here’s what you’ll learn from this guide:
- Your right to claim if you’re fired for getting injured at work
- Can I get fired for getting injured at work?
- What if your employer tries to get around it? & If you’re worried about being fired
- Watch for signs of unfair treatment & don’t hesitate to claim
- Worried about your job after injury?
- FAQs
Your right to claim if you’re fired for getting injured at work
If you’ve been injured at work due to your employer’s negligence, such as poor working conditions, lack of proper training, or faulty equipment, you are legally entitled to make a workplace injury claim.
UK laws like the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and the Employment Rights Act 1996 require employers to protect your safety. If they fail to do so and you’re hurt, you have the right to claim compensation, and that right is protected.
Being fired for getting injured at work simply for exercising your legal rights would be unlawful.
Can I get fired for getting injured at work?
No, you cannot legally be fired for getting injured at work. If your employer attempts to sack you for making a workplace injury claim, it may amount to unfair dismissal, and you could have grounds for legal action.
Legal protections include:
- Unfair dismissal: If you’re dismissed for asserting your right to claim after an injury, you may be able to file an unfair dismissal claim. While most unfair dismissal claims require two years of service, some (like this one) can be automatically unfair from day one.
- Detrimental treatment: If you’re not dismissed but are treated badly because of your injury or claim, this could also be unlawful. Being fired for getting injured at work, demoted, or excluded as a result can all justify further legal action.
What if your employer tries to get around it?
Some employers may try to disguise retaliation by giving another reason for dismissal, such as performance issues or redundancy, shortly after you make a claim. However, employment tribunals are trained to uncover the real reason behind your dismissal.
If your workplace injury claim was the main factor, the dismissal could be ruled automatically unfair.
If you’re worried about being fired
Here are the steps to protect your rights:
- Report the injury: Ensure it’s recorded in your employer’s accident book.
- Seek immediate medical attention: This creates a professional record of your injuries.
- Collect evidence: Take photographs, get witness statements, and document unsafe conditions.
- Speak to a personal injury solicitor: An expert can guide you through the process on a no-win, no-fee basis.
- Keep records: If you notice any changes at work after your claim, document everything.
Watch for signs of unfair treatment
Even if you’re not officially dismissed, subtle changes can signal that your employer is penalising you for making a claim:
- Exclusion from meetings or projects
- Sudden workload changes
- Pressure to withdraw your claim
- Questioning your performance without cause
If you notice these, it might indicate unfair treatment or constructive dismissal tied to being fired for getting injured at work.
Don’t hesitate to claim
You are legally protected from being punished or dismissed for claiming what you are entitled to.
You have the right to seek compensation for:
- Lost earnings
- Medical treatment
- Long-term recovery support
- Future care or rehabilitation needs
Worried about your job after injury?
At Claim Time Solicitors, we understand the fear of being fired for getting injured at work or for speaking up. That’s why we provide more than just legal advice; we offer support, protection, and representation tailored to your situation.
Our specialist personal injury solicitors will:
- Clearly explain your rights
- Help you file your claim confidentially
- Protect you from unlawful dismissal or harassment
- Fight to get you the compensation you deserve
Contact us today on 0800 970 2727
We treat every client like a person, not a file, helping you recover, stay protected at work, and regain peace of mind.
FAQs
Can my employer legally fire me for being injured at work?
No. UK law protects employees from unfair dismissal related to workplace injuries or making a compensation claim.
What should I do immediately after getting injured at work?
Report the injury to your employer, seek medical help immediately, and document everything including witness details and unsafe conditions.
How long do I have to make a workplace injury claim?
Typically, you have 3 years from the date of injury to file a claim, but exceptions apply for fatal accidents or cases with delayed symptoms.
Can I still claim if I was partly responsible for my injury?
Yes, you can still claim but compensation may be reduced proportionally based on your share of fault.
What kind of compensation can I expect to receive?
You may claim for lost earnings, medical expenses, pain and suffering, travel costs related to treatment, future care needs, and more.