Discrimination and harassment at work

Facing discrimination or harassment at work is one of the most distressing experiences an employee can go through. It can affect your confidence, your wellbeing, and even your ability to earn a living. Employment law in the UK sets out clear protections for workers, but many people are unsure of what their rights are or how to take action if they have been treated unfairly.

At Marley Solicitors, we help individuals who have experienced discrimination, harassment, or victimisation in the workplace. We aim to provide clarity, reassurance, and expert legal guidance so that you can move forward with confidence.

What is discrimination at work?

Discrimination happens when an employee or worker is treated unfairly because of a personal characteristic that is legally protected under the Equality Act 2010. These are known as protected characteristics and include:

• Age
• Sex
• Race or ethnicity
• Disability
• Religion or belief
• Sexual orientation
• Gender reassignment
• Pregnancy and maternity

Discrimination can take many forms. Sometimes it is obvious, such as being told you cannot apply for a role because of your age. Other times it can be subtle, like being consistently overlooked for training or promotions compared with colleagues of a different background.

It is also important to understand the difference between direct and indirect discrimination:

• Direct discrimination – where someone is treated less favourably because of a protected characteristic.
• Indirect discrimination – where a rule or policy that applies to everyone puts certain people at a disadvantage.

For example, a company introducing a rigid working hours policy may indirectly discriminate against employees with disabilities or caring responsibilities.

Harassment in the workplace

Harassment is a form of unlawful conduct that goes beyond general unfairness. It involves unwanted behaviour related to a protected characteristic that makes someone feel intimidated, humiliated, or offended.

Harassment can include:

• Derogatory remarks or jokes about a person’s race, gender, or disability
• Mocking someone’s accent or culture
• Offensive gestures or imagery in the workplace
• Excluding someone from meetings or social events in a way that isolates them

It is important to note that the intentions of the perpetrator do not excuse the behaviour. Even if they claim it was “only a joke”, what matters is the impact on the victim.

Sexual harassment

Sexual harassment is a particularly serious issue. It includes behaviour such as:

• Unwanted sexual advances
• Inappropriate comments or remarks about appearance
• Suggestive messages or emails
• Unnecessary physical contact
• Pressure to engage in sexual behaviour

Sexual harassment can happen to anyone, regardless of gender, and can come from colleagues, managers, or even clients. The law is clear that no employee should ever be subjected to this behaviour at work. Employers have a duty to investigate complaints properly and take effective action to stop it.

Victimisation after speaking up

Victimisation occurs when an employee is treated badly because they made a complaint about discrimination or harassment or because they supported someone else’s complaint. It can also arise after whistleblowing.

Examples of victimisation include:

• Being dismissed
• Being denied promotion or training opportunities
• Receiving unfair performance reviews or disciplinary action
• Being excluded from meetings or important communications
• Facing hostility from colleagues or management

The law protects employees from this type of treatment. You should not be punished for standing up for your rights or supporting someone else who has done so.

Employer responsibilities

Employers are legally responsible for ensuring that discrimination and harassment do not take place in their organisation. This means they must:

• Put clear policies in place to prevent unlawful behaviour
• Provide staff training to encourage respectful conduct
• Make sure employees know how to report concerns
• Investigate complaints fairly and without bias
• Take appropriate disciplinary action where needed
• Protect employees from victimisation after raising issues

A workplace that ignores these responsibilities can be held accountable through legal claims.

What you can do if you are affected

If you believe you are experiencing discrimination, harassment, or victimisation, the following steps can help:

1. Keep detailed records – write down dates, times, incidents, and any witnesses. Save relevant emails or messages.
2. Check internal policies – most organisations have grievance procedures. Following the proper process helps protect your position.
3. Raise your concerns – speak to HR, a manager, or another appropriate person. Make your complaint in writing if possible.
4. Seek support – talk to trusted colleagues, family, or external support services. Do not feel you have to go through it alone.
5. Take legal advice – if your employer fails to act, or if you are being victimised, a solicitor can help you understand your rights and next steps.

Why legal advice is important

Discrimination and harassment cases can be complex. Employers may deny wrongdoing, policies may not have been followed properly, and deadlines for bringing claims can be strict. Having the right legal advice gives you the best chance of success.

At Marley Solicitors, we can assess the strength of your claim, explain the process clearly, and represent your interests from start to finish. Whether your case involves unfair dismissal linked to discrimination, ongoing harassment, or victimisation following a complaint, we are here to help.

How Marley Solicitors can support you

Our team is experienced in handling employment law cases with care and professionalism. We know how difficult it can be to challenge an employer, especially if you are still working there. That is why we focus on clear, practical advice tailored to your circumstances.

We can help you:

• Understand your rights under the Equality Act 2010
• Assess whether you have a claim worth pursuing
• Prepare evidence and documentation
• Negotiate with your employer to resolve matters where possible
• Represent you at an employment tribunal if needed

Our approach is supportive and straightforward. We aim to give you confidence in taking action without overwhelming you with legal jargon.

Speak to Marley Solicitors today

Nobody should have to put up with discrimination, harassment, or victimisation at work. If you believe you have been treated unfairly, now is the time to seek advice.

Contact Marley Solicitors to discuss your situation in confidence. We will listen carefully, explain your options, and help you decide on the right course of action. With the right support, you can challenge unfair treatment and protect your future at work.