A Cambridge University librarian’s race discrimination claim has been dismissed after an employment tribunal ruled that her college acted with flexibility.
Havovi Anklesaria, who worked at Trinity College for 30 years, took legal action after being denied three months of leave at the beginning of the year to travel to India. The tribunal heard that Ms Anklesaria, who had been employed on casual contracts since 1994, regularly took extended breaks from mid-December to mid-April to visit family and care for her parents.
In 2021, Trinity College offered her a permanent contract that would allow a three-month break during the summer holiday. However, she declined the offer, insisting on her usual term-time leave instead. When the college refused, she brought a case alleging race discrimination and victimisation.
Tribunal Rules in Favour of the College
The tribunal concluded that the college’s actions were not discriminatory. It noted that permanent staff were not permitted to take extended time off during academic terms, and the summer break offered was reasonable and aligned with university operations.
Employment Judge Rebecca Freshwater said: “Trinity College worked to find solutions for the claimant that included flexibility. Ms Anklesaria was offered a permanent and flexible contract, just not on the exact terms she wanted.”
She added that while Ms Anklesaria had the right to reject the contract, it was not discriminatory for the college to maintain certain restrictions based on academic scheduling.
Background and Context
Trinity College, the largest and wealthiest of all Oxbridge colleges, has a long and distinguished history, counting Sir Isaac Newton and Lord Byron among its alumni. Ms Anklesaria’s long-standing role began in 1994, with her serving as an evening and weekend desk supervisor.
In 2017, changes to HR processes meant her employment status shifted, impacting her eligibility for furlough during the COVID-19 pandemic. This led to a permanent contract being offered in 2021—an arrangement she rejected.
