Understanding the Revised Vento Bands for 2025/2026

Effective from 6 April 2025, the Employment Tribunals has updated the Vento bands.

Vento bands are guidelines used by Employment Tribunals in the UK to determine the amount of compensation awarded for “injury to feelings” (such as humiliation and anxiety) in cases involving unlawful discrimination under the Equality Act 2010.

Vento bands are so called after a landmark case of Vento v Chief Constable of West Yorkshire Police which was decided in 2002.  The case established a framework for calculating an injury to feelings award which has standardised compensatory awards since.

These adjustments (which happen every year) aim to provide fair compensation aligned with current economic conditions.

The Updated Vento Bands:

1. Lower Band (£1,200 to £12,100): Less serious cases.
2. Middle Band (£12,100 to £36,400): Cases between less and more serious.

• Upper Band (£36,400 to £60,700): Serious cases.

These bands replace the previous ranges, which were lower, and will be reviewed annually to ensure they remain consistent with inflation and societal standards. ​

Implications for Employers:

With Vento Bands rising, employers are now at a higher risk of financial liabilities if found guilty of discrimination or harassment.

• HR teams must ensure that managers and staff understand what discriminatory behaviour means and how to appropriately handle complaints.
• Employers should proactively improve workplace culture and training programmes, as well as regularly review and update anti-discrimination policies.

Implications for Employees:

With clear and increased compensation guidelines, employees might feel more empowered to report discrimination or harassment.

The 2025/2026 updates to the Vento bands underscore the importance of staying informed about legislative developments that affect workplace rights and obligations. Both employers and employees should proactively engage with these changes to foster fair and compliant employment practices.

For any further guidance, don’t hesitate to contact our skilled Employment Solicitor Ilinca Mardarescu on imardarescu@astonbond.co.uk.