Equality -Sexual Orientation
EQUALITY ACT 2010 – Sexual Orientation
Sexual orientation is a protected characteristic under the Act and It is unlawful for service providers or employers to discriminate against any person on the grounds of their sexual orientation. All types of discrimination listed in the Introduction to this section apply to this PC.
Employers must also ensure that they do not allow their workers to discriminate on these grounds as they could be vicariously liable for the consequences, whether or not they authorized or had knowledge of the discrimination.
Sexual Orientation is defined as:
a. orientation towards persons of the same sex (lesbians and gay men)
b. orientation towards persons of the opposite sex (heterosexual)
c. orientation towards persons of the same sex and the opposite sex (bisexual)
In an effort to alleviate any potential discrimination, whether direct or indirect or in the form of harassment or victimization, it is important for employers to introduce equality policies, provide appropriate training to staff and be open and transparent in matters of recruitment, promotion and training.
ACAS has produced guidance documents and further information can be obtained from its website: www.acas.org.uk
All PBS information sheets are designed to provide the detail you need to implement best business and employment practices. They are not a detailed commentary on the current law and where advice is needed in a specific case you should contact PBS for expert consultation.
Equality/sex orient.