Employers

Sexual orientation is one of the nine “protected characteristics” covered by the Equality Act 2010 meaning that it is unlawful for an employer to discriminate against job applicants or employees.

The protection is also extended to workers, and self-employed contractors in some situations. Sexual orientation discrimination is prohibited from recruitment through employment.

An employer will be liable for the acts of its employees unless it has taken reasonable steps to prevent such conduct from happening. If an individual is successful with a sexual orientation discrimination claim, an employment tribunal will make an award of compensation and this may include unlimited net loss of earnings, and a financial award attributed to injury to feelings.

Our team of employment lawyers and HR advisors can help you put in place the relevant polices, processes and training that will prevent such claims. Aside from the risk of an employment tribunal claim, anti –discrimination policies are proven to create a more productive workplace, assist in tender situations and generally increase business.