To discriminate on the grounds of sex whether deliberate or
accidental is unlawful under the 1975 Sex Discrimination Act.
If you feel you are being
discriminated against at work because of your sex, marital status
or gender, it is unlawful and your employer has a responsibility to
stop this.
The law against sex discrimination covers
almost all workers and all types of organisations in the UK and
includes:
·
recruitment
·
employment terms and conditions
· pay
and benefits
·
status
·
training
·
promotion and transfer opportunities
·
redundancy
·
dismissal
It is illegal for an employer to discriminate
against you because of your gender or marital status in regards to
recruitment, pay, training, promotion or dismissal. The 1970
Equal Pay Act makes it unlawful to discriminate between men and
women in terms of their pay and conditions.
Sexual harassment covers a whole range of
things from rude remarks to unwanted physical contact. This as
known as direct discrimination under the Sex Discrimination Act,
1975. Both men and women may be victims of sexual
harassment.
Unfair treatment, such as being refused a job
or a place on a course or suffering from discrimination while
trying to buy something or rent a flat, is also covered by the
Act.
If you think you are suffering from
discrimination on the grounds of sex try speaking to someone you
trust, such as a parent, teacher or Connexions personal
adviser. Remember to make a note of any such incidents so
that you are clear about the facts should it be necessary to
complain.
For more information on legal issues relating
to discrimination.
Diversity and discrimination
Sex discrimination and equal pay
Discrimination by employers