Best Job Discrimination Lawyers in Canterbury

About Job Discrimination Law in Canterbury, United Kingdom

Job discrimination occurs when an individual is treated unfairly or less favourably at work because of a protected characteristic such as age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation. In Canterbury, as in the rest of the United Kingdom, laws are in place to protect people from discrimination in all areas of employment including recruitment, terms and conditions, promotions, transfers, dismissals, and training. Workplace discrimination can be overt or subtle and may affect individuals as well as groups.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations where someone in Canterbury may benefit from legal advice or representation in a job discrimination matter. Typical scenarios include being denied a job, promotion, or training opportunity for discriminatory reasons, facing harassment or bullying at work tied to a protected characteristic, being unfairly selected for redundancy, or dismissed based on discriminatory grounds. A lawyer can provide guidance in gathering evidence, navigating internal complaints or grievance procedures, negotiating settlements, and representing you before a tribunal or court if needed. Legal expertise is often invaluable when interpreting complex employment laws and ensuring your rights are fully protected.

Local Laws Overview

The principal piece of legislation governing job discrimination in Canterbury and across the UK is the Equality Act 2010. This Act consolidates previous laws and sets out a clear legal framework to protect individuals from discrimination in the workplace. Key aspects include:

• Protected Characteristics: The Act lists nine protected characteristics. It is unlawful to discriminate against someone because of any of these.
• Types of Discrimination: Discrimination can be direct, indirect, by association, by perception, or arise from harassment or victimisation.
• Scope of Protection: The law applies to employees, job applicants, agency workers, contract workers, and sometimes even volunteers or interns.
• Employer Duties: Employers must not discriminate and have a responsibility to prevent and deal promptly with discrimination and harassment in the workplace.
• Complaints and Remedies: Employees may raise a grievance internally and, if unresolved, can bring a claim to an employment tribunal. Remedies include compensation, reinstatement, and recommendations for employer action.

Local authorities, such as Canterbury City Council, and the South East region’s Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS) offer information and support relevant to the area.

Frequently Asked Questions

What counts as job discrimination in Canterbury?

Job discrimination occurs when you are treated less favourably than others at work due to a protected characteristic such as age, disability, sex, race, or beliefs. This includes unfair treatment during hiring, employment, promotion, or dismissal processes.

How do I know if I have been discriminated against?

Signs of discrimination can include being repeatedly overlooked for promotions, being paid less for the same work, being harassed because of your protected characteristic, or being dismissed without reasonable explanation. Documentation and witness accounts are often important in proving your case.

What should I do if I experience job discrimination?

Try to keep a detailed record of incidents, save any relevant communications, and, when safe, raise your concerns with your employer informally or formally through a grievance procedure. Seeking legal advice early can help you understand your rights and next steps.

Can I make a claim if I am a job applicant?

Yes. The Equality Act 2010 protects job applicants as well as employees. If you believe you have been discriminated against during recruitment, you can take legal action.

How long do I have to make a discrimination claim?

Claims to an employment tribunal for discrimination usually must be made within three months less one day from the date of the incident or the last in a series of incidents. Early legal advice is strongly recommended.

What remedies are available if my discrimination claim is successful?

Possible remedies include financial compensation, reinstatement to your previous position, recommendations for your employer to take specific actions, and declarations that discrimination occurred.

Is my employer allowed to dismiss me for making a discrimination claim?

No. The law protects you against victimisation for asserting your rights. If you are dismissed for making or supporting a claim, this could give rise to an additional separate claim.

What if the discrimination is based on more than one protected characteristic?

The law recognises that discrimination can be complex and involve more than one protected characteristic. You can raise this complexity in your claim and all relevant circumstances should be considered.

Does my employer have a duty to make adjustments for disability?

Yes. Employers are legally obligated to make reasonable adjustments to the workplace or practices to accommodate employees or applicants with disabilities, ensuring they are not unfairly disadvantaged.

Do I need to go to court to resolve my claim?

Not always. Many discrimination issues are resolved internally or through mediation. However, if these steps do not produce a satisfactory outcome, taking your claim to an employment tribunal may be necessary.

Additional Resources

If you need more information or support regarding job discrimination in Canterbury, the following organisations can be helpful:

• Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS): Provides free, confidential advice on workplace rights and disputes.
• Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC): Offers guidance and information on discrimination law and your rights as an employee or job applicant.
• Citizens Advice: Offers free advice on legal rights and how to deal with workplace discrimination.
• Canterbury City Council: Local authority support services for employment and discrimination issues.
• Trade Unions: Many employees are eligible to join a trade union, which can offer advice, support, and representation.

Next Steps

If you believe you have been affected by job discrimination in Canterbury, start by recording relevant details, communications, and any witness accounts. Raise your concerns with your employer through their formal grievance procedure if you feel able. Early legal advice can clarify your rights, guide you through procedures, and assess your case's merits. If matters are not resolved internally, your lawyer can assist you through ACAS Early Conciliation and, when necessary, represent you before an employment tribunal. Remember to act promptly, as strict time limits apply for bringing claims. Seeking support from charities, local council services, or trade unions can also provide valuable assistance throughout the process.