Discrimination at Work

Expert Legal Support for Workplace Discrimination Claims

If you’ve experienced discrimination at work, our specialist employment solicitors provide comprehensive legal support to protect your rights. We handle all forms of workplace discrimination with sensitivity and expertise. Contact us today: 0203 909 8399 | Book a Consultation

What Is Workplace Discrimination?

Workplace discrimination occurs when an employee is treated unfavourably because of a protected characteristic. The Equality Act 2010 makes this unlawful, providing legal protection against discrimination in all aspects of employment, from recruitment to dismissal.

Are You Experiencing Discrimination?

You may have a discrimination claim if you’ve been:

Treated less favourably than colleagues
Subjected to harassment or bullying
Denied opportunities or promotions
Paid less for doing the same work
Dismissed or selected for redundancy unfairly

Protected Characteristics Under the Equality Act 2010

The law protects against discrimination based on:

Age – Discrimination against any age group
Race – Including color, nationality, ethnic origin
Religion or Belief – Including lack of religion
Disability – Physical or mental impairments
Gender Reassignment – Transgender status
Sex – Gender-based discrimination
Sexual Orientation – Discrimination based on sexuality
Marriage/Civil Partnership – Marital status
Pregnancy/Maternity – During pregnancy and maternity leave

Types of Workplace Discrimination

Direct Discrimination

Treating someone less favourably because of a protected characteristic
Making assumptions based on stereotypes
Excluding someone from opportunities
Different treatment in comparable situations

Indirect Discrimination

Policies that disadvantage certain groups
Rules that appear neutral but have discriminatory effects
Requirements that unnecessarily exclude people
Practices that create barriers

Harassment and Victimization

Unwanted conduct related to protected characteristics
Creating hostile or degrading environment
Punishing someone for making complaints
Treating someone badly for supporting complaints

Common Examples of Discrimination

Age Discrimination

Selecting older employees for redundancy
Denying training to younger workers
Age-related comments or jokes
Forced retirement policies

Pregnancy and Maternity

Dismissal due to pregnancy
Denying promotion to pregnant employees
Reducing hours after maternity leave
Excluding from opportunities

Equal Pay Issues

Gender pay gaps for same work
Different bonus structures
Unequal benefits packages
Pay discrimination based on part-time status

Religious Discrimination

Inconsistent dress code enforcement
Denying religious holiday requests
Failure to accommodate religious practices
Religious harassment or mockery

Building Your Discrimination Case

Evidence Collection

Document all discriminatory incidents
Keep emails and written communications
Record dates, times, and witnesses
Save performance reviews and feedback
Gather comparative evidence

Internal Procedures

Report discrimination to HR/management
Follow grievance procedures
Request reasonable adjustments
Keep records of all complaints
Note employer’s responses

The Claims Process

ACAS Early Conciliation

Mandatory before tribunal claims
Contact within 3 months of discrimination
Confidential settlement discussions
Certificate required for tribunal

Employment Tribunal

Submit ET1 claim form
Provide detailed particulars
Respond to employer’s defense
Attend preliminary hearings
Present evidence at final hearing

Remedies Available

Compensation – For injury to feelings and financial losses
Declarations – Formal recognition of discrimination
Recommendations – Changes to workplace practices
Reinstatement – Return to previous position
Interest – On compensation awards

Why Choose Connaught Law

Specialist discrimination law expertise
Strong track record in tribunal success
Sensitive handling of difficult cases
Support for both employees and employers
Comprehensive evidence preparation

Services for Employees

Case merit assessment
Evidence gathering support
Internal complaint assistance
ACAS representation
Tribunal claim preparation
Settlement negotiation

Services for Employers

Policy development and review
Discrimination complaint handling
Investigation support
Defence preparation
Settlement negotiations
Training and prevention

Next Steps

Don’t let workplace discrimination continue unchallenged. Our employment specialists understand the complexities of discrimination law and will guide you through every step of the process. Call 0203 909 8399 or Book Online for a confidential consultation.