Sex discrimination

The Equality Act 2010 contains provisions which protect employees from being discriminated against on grounds of gender, one of the nine protected characteristics. The provisions apply to all elements of employment from recruitment, access to training, promotion, dismissals etc.

Under the act the following types of discrimination are covered:

• Direct;
• Indirect;
• harassment;
• victimisation.

Sex discrimination may be permitted in certain circumstances where there is an occupational requirement for a an employee of a specific sex (for instance a cleaner in a ladies toilet).

Do you need a discrimination solicitor to help you?

• If you are an employee and you think you have been discriminated against, take a look at our employment tribunal representation page. If you are not yet at the stage of making a complaint, take a look at our workplace representation page.
• If you are an employer and an employee is making allegations of discrimination against you in the employment tribunal, take a look at the employment tribunal defence service. If allegations of sex discrimination have been raised internally take a look at our effective disciplinary and grievance procedures page.

If one employee harasses another on grounds of sex, the employer will still be liable unless it has taken reasonable steps from preventing such behaviour from taking place. For more information on harassment

Please note that you must bring most employment tribunal claims no later than three months from the date of the act of discrimination and so do not delay in seeking advice!