What is Discrimination in the workplace?

Discrimination can happen in a workplace situation where an individual has been unfairly treated in some way because of the person they are or what they represent.

An employer is not lawfully allowed to discriminate against an individual for the following specific reasons:

Sex - an employer cannot treat you differently from others because of your sex or marital status

Age - an employer cannot treat you less favourably because of your age or apply a practice that particularly disadvantages your age group - unless objectively justified

Disability - an employer cannot treat you unfavourably because of a disability. Your employer has a duty to make reasonable adjustments to your workplace situation

Sexual Orientation - an employer cannot discriminate against you because of your sexual orientation or even a 'perceived' sexual orientation

Religious Belief - an employer cannot treat you unfavourably because of your chosen religion, a religious belief or a philosophical belief

Race - an employer cannot treat you any differently from others because of your race, specifically colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins

Discrimination claims normally need to be brought against an employer within 3 months of the act complained of so do not delay in taking action.

Action to take if you feel you are a victim of discrimination in the workplace

In the first instance you should submit a grievance under your employer's internal grievance procedure.

lf you feel you have a case against your employer then you could benefit from expert legal advice from Halborg & Co, a specialist employment law firm based in Leicestershire, but representing clients nationwide. 

If we feel that you have a valid case we may be able to represent you on a 'no win/no fee' basis.

If you complete the initial enquiry form we will call you back to discuss our initial assessment.