Discrimination

Legally, discrimination has taken place when someone is treated 'less favourably' (i.e. worse) than another person in the same situation. A person might experience discrimination based on their gender, race, disability or sexuality or because of their age or religious beliefs.

There are lots of situations in which discrimination might occur. For example, in the workplace, a woman might not get paid the same as a man doing the same job. Another example might be racial harassment experienced by an employee.

Discrimination might also occur when buying goods and services, buying or renting somewhere to live or at school or college.

There is now an Equality and Human Rights Commission. This provides a single point of contact for people who feel that they have been discriminated against. Their helpline is 0845 604 6610.

Do you live in Sandwell?

If you live in Sandwell you can also contact Race Equality Sandwell (RES) RES will act to improve “race” relations, equal opportunities and to challenge unlawful discrimination.’

Laws Against Discrimination

Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006

This became law in October 2006 and provides protection against age discrimination in employment, training and adult education, for people of all ages.  It means you cannot be discriminated against because of your age when you apply for a job or when you are in a job.

The Disability Discrimination Act (1995)

(Someone with a disability is defined as having a 'physical or mental impairment which has a substantial and long-term adverse effect on their ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities'.) A person doesn't have to be registered as disabled to be covered by the Disability Discrimination Act.

The Special Educational Needs and Disability Act

it is against the law for education and training providers and other related services to discriminate against disabled people

See the Skill information booklet 'Disability Discrimination Act (1995) - A guide for disabled people'. It can be viewed in full on the Skill website or you can ask for a copy to be sent to you.

Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations (2003)

These regulations make it against the law to discriminate or harass workers based on their sexual orientation.

See the ACAS publication, 'Sexual Orientation and the Workplace - A Guide for Employers and Employees.'

Sex Discrimination (Gender Reassignment) Regulations (1999)

These regulations make it against the law to discriminate against or harass someone because they have had or intend to have treatment to change their sex.

See the ACAS publication, 'Sexual Orientation and the Workplace - A Guide for Employers and Employees.'

The Equal Pay Act (1970)

This Act states that women must be paid the same as men when doing the same work or work which is of equal value.

The Race Relations Act (1976) and Race Relations (Amendment) Act (2000)

These Acts protect people against racial discrimination and harassment. They give people the right to challenge unfair treatment in the courts. Under the Acts, government departments and public organisations must also have policies which set out ways to promote racial equality in the workplace.

The Sex Discrimination Act (1975)

This covers lots of issues, but includes making it illegal to discriminate against men or women in employment, education, housing and providing goods and services. It is also illegal to discriminate in advertisements for any of these things.