Know Your Rights
Understanding your legal protections in the workplace is the first step toward justice and healing.
Discrimination Protection
You are protected from discrimination based on:
- Age, race, gender, religion
- Disability and sexual orientation
- Pregnancy and family status
- National origin and ethnicity
Harassment Prevention
You have the right to a workplace free from:
- Sexual harassment and bullying
- Verbal and physical abuse
- Hostile work environment
- Retaliation for reporting
Whistleblower Protection
You are protected when reporting:
- Illegal activities
- Safety violations
- Financial misconduct
- Environmental hazards
Family & Medical Leave
You have rights to:
- Medical leave for serious conditions
- Family care and bonding time
- Pregnancy and childbirth leave
- Return to your position
Key Legal Protections
Equality Act 2010
Protects against discrimination, harassment, and victimization in employment, education, and access to goods and services.
Protected Characteristics:
- Age
- Disability
- Gender reassignment
- Marriage and civil partnership
- Pregnancy and maternity
- Race
- Religion or belief
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
Employment Rights Act 1996
Provides fundamental employment rights including unfair dismissal protection, redundancy rights, and minimum notice periods.
Key Protections:
- Unfair dismissal protection
- Redundancy rights and payments
- Minimum notice periods
- Written statement of terms
- Protection from detriment
Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
Ensures your right to a safe and healthy working environment with protection from retaliation for raising safety concerns.
Your Rights Include:
- Safe working conditions
- Proper training and equipment
- Reporting safety concerns
- Protection from retaliation
- Refusal of dangerous work
Common Workplace Violations
Unfair Dismissal
Being fired without a valid reason or proper procedure.
Warning Signs:
- No written warnings
- Inconsistent disciplinary procedures
- Retaliation for complaints
- Discriminatory treatment
Constructive Dismissal
Being forced to resign due to intolerable working conditions.
Warning Signs:
- Hostile work environment
- Unreasonable workload changes
- Demotion without cause
- Isolation and exclusion
Discrimination
Being treated unfairly due to protected characteristics.
Warning Signs:
- Unequal pay for equal work
- Exclusion from opportunities
- Derogatory comments
- Unfair performance reviews
Harassment
Unwanted conduct that creates an intimidating environment.
Warning Signs:
- Offensive jokes or comments
- Unwanted physical contact
- Bullying behavior
- Sexual advances
What to Do If Your Rights Are Violated
Document Everything
Keep detailed records of incidents, including dates, times, witnesses, and any evidence such as emails, messages, or photos.
Report Internally
Follow your company's grievance procedure. Submit complaints in writing and keep copies of all correspondence.
Seek Legal Advice
Contact employment law specialists or organizations like ACAS for guidance on your specific situation.
File a Claim
If internal resolution fails, you may need to file a claim with an employment tribunal within strict time limits.
Additional Resources
ACAS (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service)
Free and impartial advice on employment rights and workplace issues.
Visit ACASEquality and Human Rights Commission
Information and support for discrimination and harassment cases.
Learn MoreNeed Help Understanding Your Rights?
Our team of employment law experts is here to help you understand your rights and take action when they're violated.