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Discrimination at Work

Home » Employment Law » Discrimination at Work

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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.

We’re here to help.
Book your consultation with Connaught Law today.
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Connaught Law
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