'Injury To Feelings': Indian-Origin Woman Files Harassment Case Against Colleague For Calling 'Auntie', Wins £1,425 Suit

Last Updated:April 08, 2026, 09:43 IST

UK tribunal rules repeated use of auntie can be workplace harassment, NHS worker Ilda Esteves wins 1425 pounds after age and sex based harassment by colleague

A UK employment tribunal has ruled that repeatedly calling a person “auntie" can amount to workplace harassment, in a case that has triggered a wider debate about culture, respect and age.

The case centred on Indian-origin Ilda Esteves, a 61-year-old NHS healthcare assistant, who said a colleague continued to address her as “auntie" despite being asked to stop. The tribunal found that the behaviour, along with other comments, created an offensive work environment and awarded her £1,425 (Rs 1.8 lakh) in compensation.

The colleague, Charles Oppong, argued that the term was meant as a sign of respect, reflecting his Ghanaian cultural background, where “auntie" is commonly used for older women. However, the tribunal said intent did not outweigh the impact, especially after Esteves made it clear she was uncomfortable.

The ruling also noted additional remarks, including suggesting Esteves would be a “good match" for an older co-worker, which contributed to the finding of harassment based on age and sex.

Beyond the legal outcome, the case has opened a broader conversation about how language travels across cultures. In many African, Caribbean and South Asian communities, terms like “auntie" are used to show respect and familiarity. But in a Western workplace, the same word can be seen as patronising or highlighting age in an unwelcome way.

The case highlights a growing challenge in diverse workplaces: balancing cultural habits with professional boundaries, where intention matters—but consent matters more.

News world 'Injury To Feelings': Indian-Origin Woman Files Harassment Case Against Colleague For Calling 'Auntie', Wins £1,425 Suit

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