Under the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 (as amended) it is unlawful for employers to discriminate on grounds of sex, marital status, pregnancy, maternity leave or gender reassignment.

Four types of discrimination are identified as unlawful under the legislation:

• Direct discrimination. This occurs when an individual is treated less favourably than others because of their sex.
• Indirect discrimination. This is where a criterion, provision or practice is in place which disadvantages people of a particular sex, unless it can be objectively justified.
• Harassment. Harassment is defined as conduct which violates a person’s dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment for them.
• Victimisation. This occurs when an individual is subjected to less favourable treatment because they have made or intend to make a complaint or allegation of discrimination on the grounds of sex.

Sex discrimination covers all aspects of the employment relationship, including job applicants and those whose employment has been terminated.

For further information contact our team or your usual contact in the firm.