Workplace discrimination is treating one employee less favourably than another, based on certain characteristics.
For employers, dealing with cases of discrimination in the workplace can be costly, time consuming, and disruptive. With this in mind, it’s important to act quickly to resolve the issue and minimise any potential long term damage to the business’ reputation.
It’s also important to be aware that, as well as preventing discrimination against employees unless it can be justified, discrimination rules for employers also state that, in some cases, it may be acceptable to positively discriminate in an employee’s favour.
Our specialist employment law team can provide the legal support you need, guiding you through the discrimination process carefully and reliably.
According to the Equality Act 2010, there are nine characteristics on which employees can discriminate against their employees:
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- Disability
- Gender
- Pregnancy and maternity
- Race and ethnicity
- Sexual orientation
- Age
- Religious or philosophical beliefs
- Marriage or civil partnership
- Gender reassignment
The discrimination can take place at any time during the individual’s employment, or even prior to them starting a role – in the job advert, for example.
There are four types of workplace discrimination:
Direct discrimination
Where an employee is discriminated against because of one of the characteristics outlined above.
Indirect discrimination
Where an employee is disadvantaged because opportunities are only offered to certain employees.
Harassment
Where an employee is subjected to hostile, humiliating, intimidating, or degrading behaviour due to one of the characteristics outlined above.
Victimisation
An employee is treated unfairly because they have raised a discrimination issue in the past.
Our team of employment law experts will help you deal with discrimination cases quickly. We’ll resolve the issue quickly and fairly, so you can focus on running your business.
As well as taking practical steps to protect your business against potential discrimination claims, we’ll also help you defend any claims that are raised.
The process is complex and sensitive, but we’ll be there to support you every step of the way, protecting your business and your reputation, and securing the best possible outcome.