Discrimination in the Workplace

If an employee succeeds in a claim of discrimination in an Employment Tribunal then the Tribunal has the power to make an unlimited award of compensation. Furthermore, the reputational damage to a business caused by a successful discrimination claim can be enormous – particularly given the publicity that these type of claims seem to attract.

Discrimination laws can be complex and dealing with a discrimination claim is likely to be extremely stressful and upsetting. Our experienced team of solicitors can advise you accurately upon the law and provide experience and guidance when you are faced with an allegation of discrimination.

The Equality Act 2010 provides employees with protection against discrimination and other prohibited conduct. Under the Act, it is unlawful for employers to discriminate against current or prospective employees because of nine ‘protected characteristics’, as follows:

• Age
• Disability
• Gender Reassignment
• Marriage and Civil Partnership
• Pregnancy and Maternity
• Race
• Religion or Belief
• Sex
• Sexual Orientation.

Discrimination law covers all areas of employment, from job adverts and the recruitment process, through to conduct during employment, work social events, and even job references. Employees and those applying for a position are protected from discrimination from day one and there is no requirement for an employee to have two years’ continuous service to bring a claim.

All employers should have an up to date equal opportunities policy. Such a [policy will not encourage fairness at work and help prevent acts of discrimination, it can also act as a defence to any Tribunal claim.

Our specialist team of employment lawyers regularly advise employers of all sizes to ensure that they comply with their obligations under the Equality Act. This can include drafting Equal Opportunities policies, providing training to managers and employees or dealing with specific issues such as reasonable adjustments for disabled employees. We can also represent you robustly and effectively if you are faced with an Employment Tribunal claim.

For further advice on this or any other employment law issue, call us for a free initial consultation today – we can discuss the matter over the phone, by Skype, or in person at your business premises or at our offices in Sheffield or Doncaster.

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