The Equality Act 2010 is a legislation in the United Kingdom that aims to promote equality and prevent discrimination across various protected characteristics. It consolidates and strengthens previous anti-discrimination laws to provide comprehensive protection against unfair treatment in various areas of life.
Aspect |
Details |
Protected Characteristics |
The Act covers nine characteristics: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. |
Prohibited Conduct |
Prohibits discrimination, harassment, and victimization in employment, education, housing, and the provision of goods and services. |
Types of Discrimination |
Identifies forms of discrimination including direct, indirect, harassment, and victimization. |
Reasonable Adjustments |
Duty on service providers and employers to accommodate individuals with disabilities for equal opportunities and access. |
Positive Action |
Allows measures to address disadvantages or underrepresentation, if proportionate and non-discriminatory. |
Enforcement and Remedies |
Provides the right to pursue legal action against discrimination, with remedies like compensation and injunctions. |
The Equality Act 2010 plays a crucial role in safeguarding equality and combating discrimination in various aspects of life. By providing legal protection and promoting inclusive practices, it helps create a fairer and more equal society for all individuals, irrespective of their protected characteristics.
This post was originally published on Feb. 9, 2023. It was updated on Jan. 3, 2024.