Workplace discrimination occurs when an employee is mistreated for being different. Typical reasons for discrimination may include race, religion, age, gender, sexuality, political beliefs, appearance or pregnancy. Examples of workplace discrimination could include:
- Paying an employee less because they are a woman
- Refusing to hire an employee because of their age
- Not allowing employees to wear items important to their religion
- Making derogatory comments regarding an employee’s sexuality (also classed as harassment)
Discrimination cases are not always straightforward. While there are cases where discrimination is clear and intentional, there may be others cases where it may be ambiguous or unintentional. It is important that you take the right action depending on the severity of the case – taking action is essential for maintaining a healthy workplace environment. This post explains more as to how to deal with discrimination as a victim, as an employer or as a colleague.
What to do as a victim
If you feel you are being discriminated against, it’s important that you talk to the right person. If you think an act of discrimination may be unintentional, it is worth talking informally with the person who is doing the discriminating – simply by talking to them about how you feel you may be able to clear up any misunderstanding and make them aware of your rights.
If someone is being intentionally discriminatory towards you, consider their level of authority. If they are a colleague, you may want to consider making a complaint to your manager or employer. If your manager or employer is doing the discriminating and you do not feel that you can talk to them, consider whether you need to take it higher. One option could be to make a claim to an employment tribunal to ensure that their behaviour is looked into. Another option could be to hire a lawyer to make a legal claim (this is typically preferred when no longer working at the company – such as being unfairly dismissed). At the very least, it could be worth talking to a lawyer for the best legal advice on how to proceed.
What to do as an employer
As an employer, you need to be able to handle dscrimiantion cases correctly. A GoodHire survey on diversity at work found that 75% of people trusted their employer to take the right action if harassment or discrimination did occur.
So just how should you act? Any complaints or cases that you witness should be dealt with promptly and confidentially. Talk to any employees that are involved individually, including any reliable witnesses if you were not present, and try to settle the problem. Unless there is proof that the victim is lying, try to side with them. Depending on the level of discrimination determine how to discipline the employee that is responsible. Of course, if you have been accused of discrimination, make sure to take this complaint seriously, apologise and amend your behaviour.
What to do as a colleague
It’s possible that you may have witnessed a colleague discriminating another colleague. Consider offering your support to your colleague and consider making a complaint on their behalf if they are too afraid to do so themselves. You may be able to take this complaint to your employer. If your employer is the one doing the discriminating, consider making an employment tribunal claim. You may be able to do this anonymously in some cases.
