At PGM Solicitors, we understand that workplace discrimination can have a real impact on employees’ well-being and career progression. Employment discrimination is essentially when an employer treats an individual unfairly due to characteristics protected by law.
Below you’ll find the different types of employment discrimination and the legal advice available to employees.
- Age
Age discrimination involves treating an employee or job applicant less favourably due to their age. In the UK, the Equality Act 2010 protects individuals from age-related discrimination in hiring, promotions, and redundancies.
- Gender
Gender discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfairly based on their sex. This can manifest as pay disparities, fewer opportunities for promotion, or workplace harassment. The law ensures equal treatment for all genders in the workplace.
- Race and Ethnicity
Employees should not be disadvantaged due to their race, ethnicity, or nationality. Discrimination in this area can include unfair hiring practices, exclusion from promotions, and racial harassment.
- Disability
Employers must make reasonable adjustments to accommodate disabled employees. Discrimination based on disability can include refusing to hire, failure to provide necessary adjustments, or unfair dismissal due to a disability.
- Religious
Employees should not face negative treatment due to their religious beliefs or lack thereof. Discrimination may involve refusal to accommodate religious attire, prayer breaks, or differential treatment based on faith.
- Pregnancy and Maternity
Women should not be treated unfavourably due to pregnancy or maternity leave. Employers must not dismiss, demote, or deny promotions to employees based on pregnancy or maternity status.
- Sexual Orientation
Employees have the right to a workplace free from discrimination based on their sexual orientation. This includes unfair treatment, harassment, or being overlooked for promotions because of a sexual identity.
- Marital and Civil Partnership
Employers cannot treat employees unfairly based on their marital status or civil partnership. For example, a married employee should not be denied a promotion while a single colleague with similar qualifications is promoted.
Legal Protection Against Discrimination
The Equality Act 2010 is the primary legislation protecting employees from discrimination in the workplace. Under this law, employees have the right to:
- Equal opportunities regardless of protected characteristics.
- Protection from harassment and victimisation.
- Fair treatment in hiring, promotions, and terminations.
Employees who face discrimination can take legal action by:
- Raising the issue internally through their employer’s grievance procedure.
- Seeking advice from a solicitor or trade union.
- Filing a claim with the Employment Tribunal if informal resolution is unsuccessful.
How we can help
If you believe you’ve experienced workplace discrimination, our team can provide legal advice and representation. We help employees understand their rights, navigate internal complaints, and take legal action where necessary.
Contact us today for a confidential appointment to discuss and explore your legal options.
