Discrimination

Direct discrimination is when someone is treated less favourably because of one of the above mentioned characteristics.  For example, it is discrimination if an employer employs a man rather than a woman (or the other way round) just because of their gender, or they don’t give a promotion to an employee, just because of their race, or their religion or belief. 

Indirect discrimination is often, but not always, more subtle than direct discrimination.  Indirect discrimination is where an employer has a policy or a rule, which applies to everyone, but it has a worse effect on some workers because of one the above characteristics. As an example, if an employer has a minimum height requirement, this requirement may be applied to everyone, but it will mean that women will generally find it harder than men to meet that minimum height requirement.  It may also have a greater impact on certain races. This will be indirect discrimination unless the employer can reasonably justify having the particular requirement.     

If you have been discriminated against by your employer and want to take legal action you can bring a claim to an employment tribunal for discrimination. Talk to one of our experts to find out if you have a case.