A former healthcare manager, Amber Stoter, has won an employment tribunal ruling for unfair dismissal after she was fired just two days after reporting alleged sexual misconduct by her boss’s husband.
The tribunal heard that Stoter, 30, felt blindsided when she was abruptly terminated by Gain Healthcare director Olinda Chapel-Nkomo, shortly after raising serious concerns about inappropriate behavior by Chapel-Nkomo’s husband, Tytan Nkomo.
Stoter had informed her line manager, Jessica Cannon, that Mr. Nkomo had made sexually suggestive comments, including referring to her as his “property” and his “girlfriend.” In one instance, he allegedly responded to a social media photo she posted with the message: “That’s not the only thing you make go hard.”
Despite Gain Healthcare’s claim that Mr. Nkomo was not an employee, the tribunal noted that he held a position of influence in the company. After Stoter’s complaint, her manager instructed Mr. Nkomo to stop working from the office—but no further action was taken.
Against Stoter’s wishes, the allegations were relayed to CEO Olinda Chapel-Nkomo the following day. Shortly after, Chapel-Nkomo announced impromptu performance reviews and, during a meeting with Stoter, terminated her employment. The tribunal described the meeting as “heated,” with Stoter expressing distress and stating that she was being punished for speaking out.
In the termination letter, Gain Healthcare listed reasons such as leaving the premises during working hours and excessive messaging in group chats. However, the tribunal found that these reasons were not substantiated by evidence and that the dismissal followed closely after the protected disclosure.
Employment Judge Colin Baran ruled that the main reason for Stoter’s dismissal was her report of alleged misconduct involving a senior male figure and a junior female staff member, which triggered legal protections under whistleblowing laws.
The judge noted the company’s failure to properly investigate the complaint and highlighted its duty to safeguard both staff and clients, given the sensitive nature of its healthcare services.
Stoter also succeeded in her claim of victimisation. A separate hearing to determine her compensation is scheduled for September.
Speaking after the ruling, Stoter said:
“Representing myself was tough, but I had to stand up for what was right. Maintaining one’s integrity is everything.”
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