If you think you have or suspect you have been discriminated against in the workplace, this isn't something that you have to take. Discrimination at work is a major issue and should be dealt with as such. Luckily there are systems in place to help deal with discrimination in the workplace, such as the Employment Tribunal.
So here is a guide for what to do if you think you’re being discriminated against.
Types of Workplace Discrimination
There are a lot of different ways you can be discriminated against in a workplace whether this is because of your race, gender, sexuality, disability, age, weight. You could be directly discriminated against, such as being told you can’t apply for a job because of a mental health problem or your race. You can be discriminated against because of a disability if your employer disciplines you because of the absence you are taking.
Indirect discrimination is anything that can put you at a disadvantage due to your protected characteristics. This could be replacing all desks with standing desks when you have a walking problem or moving the female toilets to another part of the building while the males remain where they are. Harassment is another type of discrimination you can face. If a manager or other member of staff makes jokes about one of your protected characteristics, this is harassment.
Refusal to make reasonable adjustments is also a type of discrimination. This could be not allowing an employee to make private calls to a therapist or doctor during the day, or refusing to include a wheelchair ramp to help get into the building. An adjustment is defined as reasonable if the change deals with the disadvantage, is practical to make and whether resources or finances can cover the adjustment. If the adjustment is reasonable and is refused, this is where it can turn into a case for discrimination.
What To Do
After the suspected discrimination incident, you should immediately write down what happened. Try to remember and write down as many details as possible such as who was involved, what happened, what was said and what was done. The discrimination will usually be about something said or done, but can also be about what isn't said or done. This could be asking for accommodations for your disability and being denied.
For discrimination cases you need to show your protected characteristics played a part in the situation, or else this could instead just be a workplace grievance.
Contact Employment Lawyers
If you believe you have been discriminated against in the workplace, you should get in touch with employment lawyers to assist you in your claim. DJP Solicitors have over fifteen years of experience in the field, providing expert legal advice and representation to clients who feel they’ve faced discrimination in the workplace.
So call now on 01224 590053 to talk through your claim with one of our expert team, or visit our website now to find out more about our services.
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