Discrimination and harassment at work
If you believe you are being bullied, harassed or discriminated against at work you should contact a trade union.
You have the right not to be discriminated against because of your race, gender, nationality, religion or belief, sexual orientation, pregnancy, maternity, age, or disability (known as the ‘protected characteristics’). You should also speak to a union if you believe you are being discriminated against because of your immigration status.
If you are disabled, you are entitled to extra support. An employer has a duty to make ‘reasonable adjustments’ to things like premises, equipment and working hours so that you are not put at a disadvantage when compared to non-disabled workers. This duty only applies if the employer knows you are disabled.
It is also unlawful to discriminate against you if you are on a fixed-term contract or you are a part-time worker.
Discrimination may include being paid less or being given worse terms and conditions than other workers or not being given a particular job.
If someone at work behaves towards you in a way that you don’t want, and their behaviour is hostile, intimidating, humiliating or offensive, including unwanted sexual attention, this is known as ‘harassment’. Harassment is unlawful if it relates to any of the protected characteristics.
It is also unlawful to victimise you for raising a complaint about discrimination or for helping a co-worker with a complaint.
You should write down all incidents of bullying, harassment or discrimination and keep any other related evidence, as you will need this if you have to make a formal complaint. A trade union can advise you how to make a formal complaint.
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