What is the Equality Act 2010?
The Equality Act 2010 legally protects people from discrimination in the workplace and in society. It replaced previous anti-discrimination laws with one Act, meaning that the law is easier to understand and strengthens protection for those who are discriminated against.
Everyone in GB is protected from discrimination by the Equality Act as it sets out personal characteristics that are protected under it. There are nine personal characteristics protected by the Equality Act 2010, which are:
- Age
- Disability
- Gender reassignment
- Marriage or civil partnership
- Pregnancy and maternity
- Race
- Religion and belief
- Sex
- Sexual Orientation
Under the Act, people are also protected from discrimination by association and those who complain about discrimination. Discrimination by association is being unfairly treated because of people in your life such as a family member or friend who has a protected characteristic. The Act also ensures that those who have complained about discrimination that they have faced themselves or complained on behalf of someone are also protected.
What Can You Do?
Being unfairly treated by your employer or wider society because of who you are is unlawful discrimination. If you are subject to discrimination, harassment, and victimisation or discriminated by association under one of the nine protected characteristics, then you should seek legal advice. If you contact us today, we will be able to provide a free initial consultation whereby we will be able to assess your situation, support with either lodging a grievance and if you are entitled to make a claim.
How We Can Help?
Under the Equality Act 2010, you have the right not to be treated less favourably because of one of the nine protected characteristics listed above.
Unlike a claim for unfair dismissal which requires that you have been employed for at least 2 years (1 in Northern Ireland) before lodging a claim, you are entitled to lodge a claim for discrimination from day 1 of your employment or indeed earlier if you feel you have suffered discrimination during the interview process.
In most cases, there is a three-month time limit to submit a claim which runs from the date of the incident you are complaining of. It is very important therefore that you seek legal advice as soon as possible.
Our experienced employment solicitors will be able to assess your situation, provide the legal advice that you need and advise you on the prospects of your case. We have assisted thousands of people, many who will have been in similar circumstances to you if you are suffering at work.
We have a number of options regarding funding a case (see here) and have also arranged an insurance policy which will protect you against the risk of having to pay Tribunal fees should your case be lost.
“Excellent service, queries answered quickly and efficiently.”
Sharon H.
Make an Enquiry Now
To make a free enquiry based on any of the issues raised on this page please contact us on 0808 168 7288, or complete the online contact form at the top right of this page.
We will also discuss the best methods of funding your case and seek to reach a solution that best suits your needs. This can involve a “no-win, no-fee” agreement if appropriate.