An employer must not treat employees unfavourably because of a protected characteristic, as defined in the Equality Act 2010. Protected characteristics include:

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• age

• disability

• gender reassignment

• marital or civil partnership status

• pregnancy and maternity

• race / nationality / ethnic origin

• religion or belief

• sex

• sexual orientation

 

Discrimination and harassment can occur at any stage of employment — during recruitment, day‑to‑day work, promotions, shift allocation, or dismissal.

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What do you need to prove?

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To establish discrimination or harassment, you must show that:

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a) you were treated unfavourably, and

b) the unfavourable treatment was because of a protected characteristic.

 

Both elements must be present.

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What is harassment?

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Harassment is unwanted behaviour related to a protected characteristic that:

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• violates your dignity, or

• creates a hostile, intimidating, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment.

 

This can include comments, jokes, messages, gestures, exclusion, or even tone — if it relates to a protected characteristic.

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Why seek advice?

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Discrimination is a complex area, and many people are unsure whether their experience meets the legal definition. Often, employees feel something is wrong but don’t know how to prove it or what steps to take.

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If you believe you may have experienced discrimination or harassment, I can review your situation, explain your rights, and discuss your options.