(Page updated 21/07/2023)
It is against the law to discriminate against anyone because of race including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin.
What is race discrimination?
Race discrimination is when you are treated unfairly because of your race, or because of the race of someone you are connected with, such as your partner.
‘Race’ includes colour, nationality, citizenship and ethnic or national origins.
Race discrimination can be direct or indirect. It may also take the form of harassment or victimisation.
Race discrimination in employment & training:
It is illegal for an employer to discriminate against you because of race. This includes all employers, no matter how few people they employ. Most workers, including employees, agency workers, trainees and those who are self-employed have protection from race discrimination at work. This includes:
- recruitment and selection
- promotion
- training, pay and benefits
- redundancy and dismissal
- terms and conditions of work.
You can check if your problem at work is discrimination.
Trade unions have a duty not to discriminate against their members or those wanting to become members.
There are some situations where employers are allowed to treat you less favourably because of your race and this won't count as discrimination.
What help can is available?
If you want to take legal action about race discrimination, you may be able to get some help with your case.
You can get advice about this from your local Citizens Advice
Other Helpful Links:
Citizens Advice: Discrimination because of race
gov.uk/discrimination-your-rights
ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/work-learning/discrimination-rights/the-equality-act
