Employment Lawyer – Racial discrimination in the workplace

Racial discrimination is the term which relates to the prejudicial and/or distinguishing treatment of an individual based on their race/assumed race. The term race, under the Equality Act 2010, can refer to colour, nationality ethnic or national origins.

If you are looking for an experienced and knowledgeable employment lawyer to represent clients who feel they have suffered racial discrimination within the workplace, you have come to the right place.

An employee has protection against racial discrimination in the workplace under the Equality Act 2010. There are two recognised types of racial discrimination in the workplace – direct and indirect.

Direct racial discrimination

An example of direct discrimination is where one person treats another person less favourably due to their race. If this is found to be the case, it is unlawful. This appears straight forward but it is often difficult to prove at a tribunal. Employers will frequently deny the alleged discrimination had anything to do with the person in questions race. The tribunal will have to demonstrate the exact reason for the employer’s discriminative action. The motive of an employer is irrelevant and the defence of justification is not available for direct discrimination.

Indirect racial discrimination

An example of indirect discrimination is where an employer introduces a policy which, appears to be non-discriminative on the surface but in practice employees of a certain race are at a disadvantage. For example if employees are required to follow a certain type of dress code, an employee may not be able to follow that dress code due to certain beliefs.

If you are unsure as to what action to take or if indeed you are not sure you have been discriminated again please do not hesitate to contact us. We have a wealth of experience within numerous different situations and will be able to advice.

N.b. a claim needs to be submitted within 3 months of the last discriminatory incident, also unlike some other employment law issues to bring a claim based on workplace discrimination via an employment lawyer there is no minimum service requirement of 2 years. In fact they could claim compensation even if they haven’t started work yet. The law is designed to protect employees and workers of any race during all aspects of employment.

If you win a discrimination claim, an employment tribunal can award you compensation for injury to feelings as well as for your financial losses. This means you receive compensation for the upset, hurt and distress the discrimination has caused you. This can be as much as £30,000.

Ensure the best outcome for those who have suffered from discrimination in the workplace and contact us today.

Employment Lawyer offering detailed employment law advice including dicrimination advice across Manchester, Bolton, Stoke on Trent.