Could a work injury claim stop me from getting another job?

Updated: 2 Oct, 2025
By Chris Salmon

Each year over 500,000 workers take time off due to work-related illness or injury, according to HSE and ONS data (Source: HSE LFS published 2024)

If you have been injured at work, making a work injury claim should not affect your future job prospects. Employers cannot legally ask about previous claims, and they cannot discriminate against you if they become aware of one. Compensation claims are handled through the employer’s liability insurer, not your employer personally.

Can my employer stop me making a claim?

No. Your employer cannot legally prevent you from bringing a claim. UK law requires all employers to hold employers’ liability insurance. If a claim is made, compensation is paid by the insurer, not directly from the employer’s funds.

Why might my employer discourage me?

Some employers may try to discourage claims because a successful claim can increase their insurance premiums. They may suggest compensating you directly, but this is rarely in your best interests.

Without going through the injury claims process, you may not receive the full compensation needed to cover medical costs, lost earnings, or long-term effects of your injury.

Claims are against insurers, not future employers. Employers are not allowed to ask about prior claims. However, be honest about time off and focus on recovery. Keeping medical and rehab notes can explain any employment gaps.

John Kushnick

Legal Operations Director
National Accident Law

What if my employer threatens redundancy?

If your employer hints that making a claim could put your job at risk, or if they worsen your working conditions as a result of your claim, they are breaking the law. Such actions could give rise to an additional case for unfair dismissal or constructive dismissal. Employment law protects you from retaliation for exercising your right to claim compensation.

Read more: Can you be made redundant while off sick after an accident?

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Will a claim affect future job applications?

No. Prospective employers are not allowed to ask whether you have made a personal injury claim against a previous employer. You are under no obligation to disclose this information when applying for a new job. A work injury claim should not have any impact on your career opportunities.

Key takeaway

Making a compensation claim after a work accident will not harm your job prospects. Your employer cannot prevent you from claiming, and the law protects you from retaliation or discrimination. The claims process exists to make sure you receive the support and compensation you need to recover and move forward.

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If you decide to make a compensation claim, we'll connect you with the right solicitor.

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Calls are confidential and are handled by our partners at National Accident Helpline. Work Accident Advice Centre (WAAC) is a Claims Management Company regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (Ref number: 835858). Registration is recorded on the FCA website https://register.fca.org.uk/.

About the author

Chris Salmon is a legal commentator and co-founder of Quittance Legal Services. He has written extensively about workplace accidents, employment rights and the claims process. Chris's work has been cited in national media and he regularly contributes practical guidance to help injured workers understand their options.

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Last reviewed October 2025 by Chris Salmon