In June 2023, John Gillon, 65, from Wigan, was working as a manufacturing technical manager at Aimia Foods in Haydock when his hand was crushed while he was investigating a fault on a packaging machine. A colleague mistakenly activated the wrong function, causing the machine’s cross-seal jaw to close suddenly. 

John was rushed to Whiston Hospital, where he received treatment for multiple fractures. Despite emergency surgery, his left ring finger had to be amputated in December 2023. 

Unable to drive or return to work in the immediate aftermath, he turned to Unite, which introduced him to Thompsons Solicitors to investigate the circumstances of the incident. 

“In those first weeks, the pain was unbearable, and the shock was enormous. My colleagues were fantastic, and the hospital staff and surgeons did everything they could. But the reality soon sank in - I was facing the end of the job I had done for decades, and the start of a very different life.” 

With the support of Thompsons Solicitors, John went on to bring a claim against his former employer, arguing that it had failed to provide adequate guarding, protective devices, and a safe system of work. 

In the months that followed, doctors explained that the loss of his finger — and the added strain this placed on his right hand after years of using power tools — had accelerated a pre-existing condition called Dupuytren’s contracture. The progressive disease has since required further treatment and left him with restricted grip and reduced mobility. 

Eventually, John had no choice but to take early retirement. After more than 40 years in manufacturing, his employment formally ended in June 2025. 

Court proceedings were issued, and although liability was denied, a significant five-figure settlement was secured shortly before trial. 

Commenting on the outcome, John said: “The settlement doesn’t change what happened, but it gives me some security and recognition of what I’ve been through. Helen and her team worked tirelessly for me - I cannot thank them enough. I also hope my case makes other workers realise how important it is to have a union behind you.” 

Helen Templeton, of Thompsons Solicitors’ Liverpool office, who represented John, said: “This was a very serious incident which has had a permanent impact on our client’s life, work and independence. Despite the challenges he has faced, John has shown great resilience and determination throughout the process, and it has been a privilege to represent him. 

“With the backing of Unite, we were able to secure a fair settlement that reflects the losses he has suffered and gives him some financial security for the future. His decision to speak out is an important reminder of the vital role unions play in ensuring workers have access to justice and specialist legal support when things go wrong.” 

While the case has now settled, John is speaking out in the hope of encouraging others to sign up for union membership. He explained that in addition to supporting his civil claim, Unite also assisted him during his employer’s internal investigation. 

“My immediate colleagues were fantastic and really supportive, but I didn’t feel the company itself took what happened as seriously as they should have. It almost felt as though they were blaming me, and I was grateful to have my union representative there to support me through that. 

“When something this serious happens you expect lessons to be learned, and for health and safety and training to be looked at closely. It does worry me that it settled without an admission of liability, because it makes you wonder what lessons will be taken forward.” 

Unite Director of Legal Services Stephen Pinder said: "Too often companies cut corners on safety and workers are left to pay the price. 

"Unite membership, through Unite legal services, entitles you to free legal assistance in all workplace matters, it is the single biggest workplace protection workers can have. This case underlines why workers should belong to Unite."