Introduction (453 words)

The UK has had legislation outlawing discrimination since the 1970s. Initially it was only discrimination on the grounds of sex that was covered (under ...

1. Overview of discrimination law (3031 words)

Despite the existence of discrimination law there is indisputable evidence of discriminatory practices in the workplace. Indeed, over the last few years the government ...

2. Direct and indirect discrimination (4522 words)

The law defines two types of discrimination - "direct" and "indirect". Direct discrimination - where someone is treated differently for one of the outlawed ...

3. Harassment (1937 words)

Harassment at work is a complex and difficult issue that many union reps will have to deal with. The most common from of harassment ...

4. Victimisation (1172 words)

It is unlawful for an employer to victimise either existing or past staff because they have made complaints of discrimination, even if the complaints ...

5. Proving a discrimination claim (1566 words)

Once a worker has established that there has been less favourable treatment, it is up to the employer to prove there was no discrimination. ...

6. Employers' defences to discrimination claims (921 words)

As previous chapters have made clear, there are circumstances where an employer can get away with discriminatory treatment. There are three main grounds: ...

7. Positive action (510 words)

Just as it is unlawful to discriminate against workers, it is also unlawful to discriminate in favour of an individual on the same grounds. ...

8. Taking a tribunal claim (731 words)

A person who has been unlawfully discriminated against by their employer or ex-employer has the right to take a claim to an employment tribunal. ...

9. The equality commissions and further information (629 words)

At present there are three government-appointed bodies responsible for promoting equality and issuing codes of practice to assist the parties in observing the law. ...

Appendix: Statutory references for different forms of discrimination (245 words)

Areas covered Sex Race Disability Gender reassignment Sexual orientation Religion or belief ...