Religious and Sexual Orientation Discrimination Outlawed
On 1st and 2nd December new regulations banning for the first time in the UK discrimination by employers on the grounds of religion and sexual orientation came into effect. The new rules apply throughout the employment/vocational training relationship, during the recruitment process, in the workplace/training place, on dismissal and, in certain circumstances, after the employment/vocational training has finished. Many local employers will need to consider their practices.
Judith Ellery, a partner in our Employment Department, says “Giving all staff a bonus when they marry might discriminate against homosexuals. Not making reasonable adjustments to allow people a room to pray in at work could discriminate on religious grounds. The Government has said that unfair discrimination in employment will not now be tolerated and people should not be denied jobs, suffer victimisation or harassment, because of prejudice. In any event it is damaging for business as they deny themselves access to the widest pool of talent. The new legislation sets out minimum requirements in law so that people can no longer be denied jobs because of prejudice; so that harassment can be tackled promptly and effectively; and so that people have an equal chance of training and promotion, whatever their background.”
For further information contact Judith Ellery or Paul Seath on (0117) 929 0451 or e-mail pseath@metcalfes.co.uk
This press release summarises the law on issues which we believe may be of interest to you. It is not a comprehensive review of the subjects and accordingly is published without responsibility for loss occasioned to any person(s) acting or refraining from action as a result of information published