I Think I Have Been Discriminated Against at Work
If you believe you have been treated unfairly at work because of a protected characteristic — such as your race, sex, disability, age, religion, sexual orientation, pregnancy, gender reassignment, or marriage status — you have legal protection under the Equality Act 2010. Here is what to do.
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The Equality Act 2010 protects nine characteristics: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. Discrimination can be direct (treated worse because of a characteristic), indirect (a policy that disadvantages a group), harassment (unwanted conduct related to a characteristic), or victimisation (punished for raising a complaint). Understanding which type applies helps you build your case.
Gather evidence as early as possible
Keep a detailed diary of incidents including dates, times, what was said or done, who was present, and how it made you feel. Save emails, messages, and any written communications. Note any witnesses. If your employer has an equal opportunities policy, obtain a copy. Evidence gathered at the time is much more persuasive than recollections after the fact.
Consider raising the issue with your line manager, HR, or a more senior manager. If that is not appropriate (for example, if your manager is the source of the discrimination), go straight to a formal written grievance. A grievance creates a formal record and your employer must investigate. If they fail to follow the Acas Code of Practice on grievances, any tribunal award can be increased by up to 25%.
Contact Acas for Early Conciliation
Up to 6 weeksBefore you can bring an employment tribunal claim, you must contact Acas for Early Conciliation. This is free and confidential. Acas will try to help you and your employer reach a settlement without going to tribunal. The conciliation period pauses your tribunal deadline. If conciliation fails, Acas will issue a certificate that allows you to proceed to tribunal.
You must submit your ET1 tribunal claim form within 3 months less 1 day of the discriminatory act (the Acas conciliation period extends this). Discrimination claims have no qualifying service requirement — you can claim from day one of employment. There is no cap on compensation for discrimination, and the tribunal can award injury to feelings (Vento bands: £1,100 to £56,200+) on top of financial losses.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a solicitor for a discrimination claim?
Can I claim discrimination if I am still employed?
What if the discrimination happened more than 3 months ago?
Official bodies and resources
Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service
GovernmentProvides free, impartial advice on workplace relations and employment law, and offers early conciliation before tribunal claims.
Employment Tribunal
TribunalHears claims about employment disputes, including unfair dismissal, discrimination, and unpaid wages.
Citizens Advice
CharityProvides free, confidential, and independent advice on a wide range of issues including benefits, housing, debt, and employment.
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