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Discrimination at work

Explains what laws protect you from discrimination at work, what you can do if you are discriminated against, and where you can get support and advice.

  • This information applies to England and Wales.
  • This information applies to adults. It doesn't apply to children unless specifically stated.

What counts as 'work'?

The Equality Act applies when you are:

  • applying for a job
  • at work, including areas of working life such as
    • your pay
    • your terms and conditions of employment
    • sickness absence
    • promotion
    • opportunities for training or other benefits
  • dismissed (including being made redundant)
  • a former employee or worker in certain circumstances.

It can protect you if you are:

  • an employee
  • an apprentice
  • a contract worker.

What type of work is not covered by the Equality Act?

The Equality Act does not protect you if you are:

  • an unpaid volunteer
  • genuinely self-employed.
< Overview Examples of discrimination at work >

This information was published in March 2018. We will revise it in 2021.

References are available on request. If you would like to reproduce any of this information, see our page on permissions and licensing.

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