A long-time cafe employee alleges she was unfairly dismissed after the business changed ownership, claiming her termination was tied to her Muslim faith and Pakistani heritage.
Ayshea Malik, 35, worked at the Food 4 Thought Café in Warrington, Cheshire, for nearly a decade before being let go via a WhatsApp message in April 2023. Malik, a single mother of two, pursued legal action against the cafe’s new owners, Przemyslaw Paliga and Zbigniew Szary, after losing her position shortly after their takeover in February 2023.
The Liverpool Employment Tribunal found that Malik had been both unfairly dismissed and discriminated against on the grounds of race and religion.
Fighting for Justice
Presenting her case without legal representation, Malik described her victory as an emotional moment, emphasizing she took action for the sake of her children.
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“I wanted to show them that you can stand up for yourself and win,” Malik told the BBC. “It wasn’t just about me; it was about proving that injustice can be challenged.”
Dispute Over Wages
The tribunal heard that Malik had raised concerns about an incorrect deduction from her wages due to a tax misunderstanding, an issue reportedly affecting other staff members. Shortly after raising the concern, Malik was removed from the staff rota without explanation.
“When I asked what was happening, I was told I had resigned, which wasn’t true,” Malik recalled. “They promised written reasons for my dismissal, but none ever came. It was terrifying. I didn’t know what I was going to do.”
Claims of Discrimination
Malik also pointed out disparities in how complaints were handled among employees. She noted that a white British colleague who had raised similar concerns about pay had not faced termination.
“I couldn’t help but feel singled out,” she said. “As the only person of color there, it really hit me hard.”
The cafe owners argued in court that they suspected Malik of theft, a claim Judge Jane Aspinall dismissed as fabricated since no prior evidence or accusations were raised until the hearing. Judge Aspinall also stated the owners had failed to refute claims of racial and religious discrimination.
Emotional Toll
In her ruling, Judge Aspinall highlighted the impact the dismissal had on Malik, noting that as a single mother, she faced immediate anxiety over providing for her family.
“She felt overwhelmed by fear, unsure how she would manage her bills without a job,” the judge wrote.
Looking Ahead
A further tribunal hearing will determine the compensation Malik is entitled to. Reflecting on the ordeal, Malik said she remains affected by the experience but hopes her story inspires others facing similar injustices.
Food 4 Thought Café has not issued a response to the ruling.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of workplace fairness and the consequences of discriminatory practices.
