Discrimination takes many forms and the law in this area is extremely complex as there are various heads of discrimination.  In order to have a claim, discrimination must be on grounds of a particular characteristic.  These are known as “protected characteristics” and there are currently 9 of these as follows:
 
 
We can provide advice and assistance with regard to all of these areas as well as representation in the employment tribunal for discrimination claims.
 
If you feel that you have been treated unfairly in the workplace because of one of these protected characteristics, you may have a claim for discrimination which can include harassment and victimisation.  There are certain time limits which apply to these claims and it is therefore essential that you contact us by completing this form or by calling 0113 320 5000 immediately for advice.

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Discrimination can be either direct or indirect.

The concept of direct discrimination, victimisation and harassment applies to discrimination related to gender, being married or having a civil partner, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, age and disability.

You are eligible to make a claim for discrimination if you are a job applicant, apprentice, employee, former employee, contract worker, or working on a contract personally to execute work.

There is no minimum length of service required.

To be successful in a claim for Direct Discrimination, you must be able to show that:

  • You received less favourable treatment because of a protected characteristic, for example, race or age, etc.
  • The treatment was different to others. It is not enough to be simply unfair treatment, you have to show that the treatment was a result of one of the factors noted above.
  • You have a comparator. It is useful (but not essential) to find a real-life comparator.

Indirect discrimination is where your employer has applied a provision/criteria or practice which disadvantages you and which would tend to disadvantage others of your race, sex, age, etc. It is not unlawful if your employer can justify the provision or practice by showing that it is a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim.

One of the nine features , eg sex , race , disability , age , sexual orientation , religious belief, transgender reassignment , marital status and pregnancy.

Yes , in addition to compensation for loss of earnings , injury to feelings awards are available .

Yes.