Equality Act gives new rights at work

The Equality Bill received Royal Assent before Parliament broke for the general election and so is now law.

The Bill was originally a tidying-up exercise designed to harmonise and consolidate the various strands of discrimination law and their associated distinct tests. But the Equality Act 2010, as it now is, does introduce important new rights. For example, in the area of pay, the Act seeks to raise awareness of gender pay gaps within organisations.

Detailed official guidance notes on the Act can be accessed by following the link below; there is also a second link to the complete Act itself for those so inclined to read the legislation.

The notes have been prepared by various government departments. For example, the Government Equalities Office and the Department for Work and Pensions produced the guidance in respect of provisions relating to disability and pensions.

www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2010/en/plain/ukpgaen_20100015_en

www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2010/plain/ukpga_20100015_en