There are laws in place to protect you from discrimination at work. Discrimination in the workplace is challenging and you need legal help to put your best interests first. We’re here to support you, guide and help you bring a discrimination compensation claim against your employer.
The Equality Act 2010 set out nine protected characteristics. This means that it's illegal for you to be discriminated against on the basis of:
Age
Disability
Gender Reassignment
Marriage or Civil Partnership (As related to your employment)
Pregnancy and Maternity
Race
Religion or Belief
Sex
Sexual Orientation
Unfortunately, people often suffer workplace bullying and harassment in relation to these characteristics. Just as significantly, many people suffer unlawful discrimination at work, which means that they receive unfavourable treatment because of these protected characteristics.
What are the different types of discrimination in the workplace?
Examples of unlawful discrimination in the workplace include:
Unequal pay: Where someone is paid less than others doing the same work on the basis of a protected characteristic; commonly where women are paid less than men doing the same job.
Unfair rules: Such as where followers of one religion might be allowed to wear symbols of their faith, while another group isn't.
Age discrimination: Such as when a worker over the age of 50 is selected for redundancy in preference to a younger worker with less experience and ability.
Maternity discrimination: Whereby a pregnant employee is dismissed for poor attendance due to her pregnancy.
Unfortunately, there are many other examples of discriminatory practices in the workplace. If you feel that you've been treated unfairly at work due to age, sex, race, disability, pregnancy, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership, gender reassignment, religion or beliefs, you may have a case for discrimination against your employer. To speak to a sympathetic and experienced employment discrimination solicitor, call us on 0330 041 5869 or contact us online and we'll call you.
How can Slater and Gordon help if I'm being discriminated against at work?
It's not just unfair for you to be discriminated against in the workplace, it's also unlawful. That's why our experienced workplace discrimination solicitors are here to help you at every turn.
In the first instance this can mean advising you on how to make a formal complaint, known as a grievance to your manager or Head of Human Resources. Negotiating your company's grievance procedure may not be straightforward and having expert legal assistance on hand can help to make sure that your rights are fully respected.
In cases where the discrimination has been too serious to allow for an amicable resolution, we're also highly experienced in negotiating favourable severance packages, should you wish to leave your current employer and move on to a company that offers a fairer and more pleasant working environment.
You can also rest assured that where your employer's internal procedures can't help you to obtain a fair resolution and you feel that you must resign, we have extensive experience of supporting our clients by issuing proceedings for constructive dismissal at employment tribunals. It's often a good idea to take legal advice before taking the step of resigning. To speak to an experienced employment solicitor about discrimination in the workplace, call us on 0330 041 5869 or contact us online and we'll call you.
Why choose Slater and Gordon’s workplace discrimination solicitors
Everyone has the right to be treated fairly and with respect in the workplace, and the consequences of discrimination can be wide reaching. We know how difficult it can be to challenge damaging behaviour at work, which is why our expert solicitors are committed to providing the best possible support from the outset, approaching every case with empathy, understanding and compassion. Our employment team have an outstanding track record of success, and many of our solicitors have received recognition from esteemed legal publications such as Chambers and Partners and the Legal 500. With a wealth of experience and expertise, you can trust that you are in good hands. If you’re struggling with discrimination in the workplace, speak to our team today to find out how we can help you.
I am very happy with the service provided which was professional, quick and efficient. I would certainly recommend Slater and Gordon Lawyers should any chance arise. Huge thank you!
V K (employment case)
The Manchester Office has been very professional, helpful and prompt when dealing with a settlement agreement regarding my voluntary redundancy. I would have no hesitation in recommending Slater and Gordon for any employment law issue.
D M (employment case)
I would 100% recommend Slater and Gordon if you need any help in employment law. They offer an incredible service.
H L (employment case)
We are an award winning law firm and have a dedicated team of employment solicitors to advise and guide you – no matter how complex your situation may be.
Affordability and advice
We're able to offer affordable expert legal advice and can provide guidance on all aspects of employment law. Our Initial Consultation provides tailored advice on your situation giving you clear guidance and options regarding next steps.
Tailored advice
We understand that employment situations differ – so we are able to provide tailored advice and guidance to suit your individual needs.
Local access
We are a national law firm, with legal experts available locally across the UK. Meetings can be arranged via telephone or video call, to suit your requirements.
Frequently asked questions about discrimination at work
Can I take my employer to court for discrimination?
Yes, you can take legal action against your employer for discrimination. However, you should take all steps possible to resolve the issue directly with your employer before legal action is taken. If this has not been possible, and legal action becomes necessary, you will need to be able to prove that you’ve been discriminated against.
What is classed as unfair treatment at work?
There are many different examples of unfair treatment at work, including discrimination. Other examples including harassment and bullying. While harassment is defined in law, bullying does not have a legal definition and is harder to prove.
What is the burden of proof for discrimination at work?
Where it becomes necessary to pursue legal action for discrimination at work, the burden of proof lies with the employee. This means that you will need to be able to show a court that the circumstances surrounding your case indicate that you have been discriminated against, or that in the absence of any other explanation, discrimination has most likely occurred.
I am very happy with the service provided which was professional, quick and efficient. I would certainly recommend Slater and Gordon Lawyers should any chance arise. Huge thank you! V K (employment case)
The Manchester Office has been very professional, helpful and prompt when dealing with a settlement agreement regarding my voluntary redundancy. I would have no hesitation in recommending Slater and Gordon for any employment law issue. D M (employment case)
I would 100% recommend Slater and Gordon if you need any help in employment law. They offer an incredible service. H L (employment case)