Equality, is it Fair?

There is no limit on the compensation that can be awarded for a discrimination claim. One of the largest settlements was for £4.5 million paid to a consultant physician in 2011.

According to a recent survey one in five employees (20%) have taken action to hide their age, disability, social background or sexuality when applying for a job. The same survey also found that four in ten workers had experienced a form of bias in their workplace.

The Equality Act 2010 defines direct discrimination as less favourable treatment because of one of the following:

Age;
Disability;
Gender reassignment;
Marriage and civil partnership;
Pregnancy and maternity;
Race;
Religion or belief;
Sex; and
Sexual orientation.

It is vital that all employers have a Diversity Policy to show that the business is fully committed to the elimination of unlawful and unfair discrimination and values.

The business must ensure:

They have a diversity policy and procedure document in the employee handbook;
That there is a senior level champion leading the diversity strategy
That it is communicated throughout the business
That it is regularly audited to ensure its compliance

There is no point in having an employee handbook, unless it is regularly updated and communicated to all employees.

If you would like help in creating a diversity policy for your company, contact Nichola Coulthard at Nichola@coulthardhr.co.uk. www.coulthardhr.com Mobile is 07946 541606