Discrimination issues in the workplace

Allegations of discrimination can put your business at risk of significant financial and reputational damage. Your response in such circumstances needs to be based on expert advice, both to limit exposure and address the substance of the claim.

Morr & Co's experienced team of employment discrimination solicitors will advise you on how to deal with these issues quickly and effectively. We can also assist you in handling a specific complaint of unlawful discrimination, whether made as part of a grievance or through an employment tribunal claim.

Your business could be faced with an employee who has raised a grievance based on alleged harassment, perhaps because of their sex or race, or you may be reluctant to agree to an employee’s request for flexible working and concerned that their disability or childcare responsibilities puts you at risk of a claim. In all of these situations, your business is significantly exposed and you may require a discrimination solicitor.

It is unlawful to discriminate because of any of the below protected characteristics:

• Race
• Sex
• Disability
• Religion or belief
• Sexual orientation
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Gender re-assignment
• Marriage and Civil Partnership
• Age

In higher-risk HR areas, such as your recruitment and selection processes, our employment discrimination solicitors can provide training for your managers/supervisors and auditing of your recruitment documentation to ensure that they comply with the anti-discrimination laws and good practice. We can also advise on how to draft an Equal Opportunities policy and ensure effective implementation within your business.

FAQs

Who is liable for discrimination in the workplace?

The Equality Act 2010 protects individuals from facing discrimination in respect of a protected characteristic. If an employer unlawfully discriminates against or harasses a job applicant or employee, it will be liable for its actions. Similarly, other bodies can be liable for discriminating against protected individuals such as training providers. In some circumstances, an individual can be liable for discrimination which occurs in the course of employment.

To protect your business and reputation, please contact one of the team.