Discrimination at Work Solicitors
Whether you’ve experienced a one-off incident or an ongoing pattern of discriminatory treatment, it’s important to understand your rights. Nobody should have to put up with being treated unfairly at work.
Unfortunately, workplace discrimination is something many employees experience, and it can have a significant impact on your confidence, wellbeing and career.
At Talbots Law, our specialist employment law solicitors have extensive experience supporting employees who have experienced discrimination at work. Employment law protects employees from discrimination on the grounds of certain protected characteristics, and where those rights have been breached, you may be entitled to take legal action.
If you have need support and would like to speak with one of our expert Workplace Discrimination Solicitors, get in touch with us today on 0800 118 1500 or complete the form below.
What is Discrimination at Work?
Discrimination at work occurs when someone is treated unfairly because of a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010.
The law protects employees and job applicants from discrimination based on:
- Age
- Disability
- Gender reassignment
- Marriage and civil partnership
- Pregnancy and maternity
- Race
- Religion or belief
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
Discrimination can happen at any stage of employment, from recruitment and promotion through to disciplinary action, redundancy and dismissal. It can also occur after your employment has ended in certain circumstances.
Find out more in our frequently asked questions below.
The Different Types of Discrimination at Work
Direct Discrimination
Direct discrimination occurs when you’re treated less favourably because of a protected characteristic. For example, being refused a promotion because of your age or dismissed because of your pregnancy.
Indirect Discrimination
Indirect discrimination happens when a policy, rule or workplace practice applies to everyone but unfairly disadvantages people who share a particular protected characteristic.
Harassment
Harassment is unwanted behaviour related to a protected characteristic that creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive working environment.
Victimisation
Victimisation occurs when someone is treated unfairly because they have made, or supported, a complaint about discrimination or exercised their rights under equality legislation.
Why Choose Talbots’ Discrimination at Work Solicitors?
Our employment law specialists can help you understand your legal rights, assess whether you may have a claim and advise you on the most appropriate course of action. Depending on your circumstances, we can assist with raising formal grievances, negotiating a resolution, supporting you through Acas Early Conciliation or representing you in an Employment Tribunal.
Our aim is always to resolve matters as quickly and effectively as possible. While many discrimination claims are settled without the need for Tribunal proceedings, we’re fully prepared to represent you where formal action becomes necessary.
With offices across the country and a team of specialists covering a wide range of legal services, we are able to provide practical advice tailored to your individual circumstances. As an employee-owned firm, we are committed to delivering exceptional service, clear communication and legal support you can trust. Our reputation is reflected in the thousands of positive reviews we have received from happy clients. Read our Trustpilot reviews.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I believe I've been discriminated at work?
If you believe you’ve experienced discrimination at work, it’s important to act promptly.
Keep copies of any relevant emails, messages or documents, make notes of incidents as they happen and consider whether there are colleagues who may be able to support your account.
You may also wish to raise the issue through your employer’s grievance procedure. Seeking legal advice at an early stage can help you understand your options, preserve important evidence and ensure you don’t miss the time limits for bringing a claim.
Can I make a discrimination claim if I still work for my employer?
Yes. You do not need to leave your job before bringing a discrimination claim.
Many employees seek legal advice while they are still employed, particularly where discrimination relates to promotion opportunities, reasonable adjustments, workplace harassment or unfair treatment.
How long do I have to make a discrimination claim?
In most cases, Employment Tribunal claims for workplace discrimination must be started within three months less one day of the discriminatory act.
These time limits are strict, so it’s important to seek legal advice as soon as possible if you believe you’ve experienced discrimination.
Should I raise a grievance before making a discrimination claim?
In many cases, raising a formal grievance gives your employer the opportunity to investigate and resolve the issue internally.
However, it isn’t always the right approach in every situation. A specialist employment solicitor can advise on the best course of action based on your circumstances.
What compensation can I receive for discrimination at work?
If your claim is successful, you may be entitled to compensation for financial losses, such as loss of earnings, as well as compensation for the impact the discrimination has had on you.
The amount awarded will depend on the circumstances of your case, including the nature of the discrimination and the losses you have suffered.
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