Christian school worker claims unlawful dismissal in free speech battle

A Christian school worker, Kristie Higgs, is claiming her free speech rights were violated after being dismissed for sharing social media posts criticising LGBT+ relationship teaching.

Higgs, 47, was sacked by Farmor’s School, Gloucestershire, in 2019, allegedly due to her beliefs being labelled “homophobic and transphobic”. Her lawyers argue she faced “unlawful discrimination” based on her religious views.

Higgs posted comments about LGBT+ teaching at her son’s Church of England primary school, which led to an anonymous complaint and her subsequent dismissal. Although an Employment Appeal Tribunal ruled in her favour in June 2023, the case is ongoing.

Mrs Higgs told reporters: “My posts reflect biblical true Christian teaching on gender and sexuality.

She added: “This is not just about me. It cannot be right that so many Christians are losing their jobs or facing discipline for sharing biblical truth [of] our Christian beliefs.”

Her lawyer contended that Higgs’ posts were expressions of her religious beliefs and did not promote animus towards protected groups.

The school, however, argues she was dismissed due to how her posts were perceived, not for her beliefs.

This appeal, involving the Christian Legal Centre and other intervening groups, seeks to address the broader issue of free speech and religious beliefs in the workplace.

A decision from the Court of Appeal is expected later.