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If an individual feels that they have been discriminated against as a result of their sexual orientation our team would welcome the chance to discuss the case with you. We appreciate that this is often a difficult time and offer a range of funding options to help. In some circumstances we may be able to offer a ‘no win no fee arrangement’ to you. Please complete our online enquiry form or telephone us on 01616 966 229 and we will be happy to discuss your options and guide you through the process.
It is unlawful to discriminate against an individual whether they be an employee, colleague, consumer or service user on the grounds of their sexual orientation.
The Equality Act defines sexual orientation as a person’s sexual attraction towards persons of the same sex, persons of the opposite sex or persons of either or both sexes. The law therefore protects those of any sexual orientation from discriminatory behaviour.
Discrimination can occur in various ways. It may be that an individual is treated differently, less favourably or have unpleasant comments made towards them.
Such conduct can be considered by the tribunals and the courts as harassment if it is believed that the behaviour has had the effect of violating the individual’s dignity or created an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment for them.
An employer, public body, service provider or association can be held accountable for the conduct of their employees which gives rise to claims against these businesses or organisations.
It should also be noted that less favourable treatment due to a perception that an individual is of a particular sexual orientation is also prohibited under equality law.
Such discrimination can occur in various ways. It can involve an individual being treated differently to or less favourably than others of a different sexual orientation. This can include the making of unpleasant comments towards them in the course of their employment by colleagues or in the course of their day to day lives as consumers or service users.
Commonly, cases involving discrimination due to sexual orientation include claims for direct discrimination, indirect discrimination, harassment and/or victimisation.
Our employment law and discrimination teams have successfully represented clients in claims against employers in the Employment Tribunal and other organisations in the County Court in such circumstances.
If you believe that you have been the victim of discrimination as a result of your sexual orientation and would like to speak to a member of our team call us on 01616 966 229 or complete our online enquiry form without delay.
We acted on behalf of two employees who worked for a national supermarket chain and both were subjected to a campaign of homophobic abuse and discrimination. Both employees were able to provide significant detail as to the nature and occasions on which they were subject to such discrimination which we were able to present to the tribunal. We acted for these clients on a “no win, no fee” basis meaning there were no up-front legal fees for both clients. We were able to successfully settle the claims for both individuals to compensate them for financial loss and injury to feelings for sums in excess of £15,000.
We represented a client in the employment tribunal after he was subject to discrimination and harassment by his colleagues and employer based on his perceived sexual orientation. This included the withholding of his wages and being removed from shifts after complaining about the harassment he was being subjected to by his colleagues. Our client received a favourable compensatory award in the tribunal.
Specialist solicitor Maria Chadwick talks about sexual orientation and gender reassignment discrimination. Maria provides guidance on what can be defined as discrimination, how long you have to make a claim and how the team at Stephensons can assist if you feel you have been the victim of discrimination in the workplace or by public body, a service provider or a private club, society or association.
"We understand that these are very emotive times for our clients and we're committed to getting the best results for our clients day in, day out." - Maria Chadwick
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