Workplace Discrimination Awareness

Workplace discrimination can be subtle or overt, intentional or unintentional. Understanding your statutory rights helps you recognise problems early, keep good records, and take informed action.

1) What discrimination can look like

Discrimination may involve decisions about recruitment, pay, promotion, training, performance management, disciplinary action, dismissal, or day-to-day treatment.

2) Common patterns to watch for

• Different standards applied to different people

• Being excluded from meetings, opportunities, or information

• Derogatory comments, ‘banter’, or stereotypes

• Unfair criticism or disproportionate discipline

• Policies applied rigidly without considering individual circumstances

3) Harassment and victimisation

Harassment is unwanted conduct that violates dignity or creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating, or offensive environment. Victimisation is being treated badly because you raised a concern or supported someone else’s complaint.

4) Reasonable adjustments (where relevant)

In some situations, employers may need to make reasonable adjustments to remove barriers at work. If you think adjustments are needed, put requests in writing and keep a record of responses.

5) What to do if you’re concerned

Early, calm action often helps. Focus on facts and documentation.

• Write down what happened (dates, times, who was present, what was said/done)

• Keep copies of relevant emails/messages and documents

• Check internal policies (grievance, dignity at work, equality)

• Consider raising the issue informally or through a grievance

• Get support early if the situation is escalating

6) Preparing for a tribunal claim

If matters progress toward a claim, organisation is key: a clear timeline, a document list, and a focused explanation of the issues. This is where many self-representing claimants can strengthen their position significantly.

Closing note

Everyone deserves a workplace where they are treated with dignity and fairness. Understanding equality rights is not about conflict—it’s about clarity, accountability, and professional parity.

Important: This guide is general information and not legal advice. If you’d like practical support preparing your documents and presenting your case clearly, TribunalReady can help.