Sexual Orientation Discrimination
Workplace discrimination based on your sexual orientation or perceived sexual orientation.
What is Sexual Orientation Discrimination
Sexual orientation discrimination involves unfavorable treatment because you're lesbian, gay, bisexual, or heterosexual. This includes discrimination based on perceived sexual orientation or association with LGBTQ+ individuals. The Equality Act 2010 provides comprehensive protection against both direct and indirect discrimination.
Discrimination can range from offensive comments and exclusion from workplace activities to denial of equal opportunities and benefits. Many cases involve assumptions about lifestyle, relationships, or capabilities based on sexual orientation stereotypes.
LGBTQ+ employees often face unique challenges including decisions about disclosure, managing workplace relationships, and dealing with heteronormative workplace cultures that assume all employees are heterosexual.
Common Reasons
We frequently handle cases involving dismissals after employees disclosed their sexual orientation or brought same-sex partners to workplace events. Religious objections from employers or colleagues sometimes create hostile environments, though religious beliefs don't justify discrimination.
Common scenarios include: exclusion from client meetings due to assumptions about customer reactions, denial of equal benefits for same-sex partners, harassment through homophobic language or "jokes," or different treatment after disclosure of sexual orientation.
Particularly concerning are cases where employees face discrimination for challenging heteronormative assumptions, requesting inclusive policies, or supporting LGBTQ+ colleagues. Some employers create deliberately unwelcoming environments hoping LGBTQ+ employees will leave voluntarily.
Transgender employees face additional discrimination around identity recognition, use of facilities, and workplace transition support. Dismissals during or after gender transition are unfortunately common, often disguised as performance or restructuring issues.
Your Rights and Typical Results
Sexual orientation discrimination typically results in £10,000-£25,000 compensation, with harassment cases often achieving higher injury to feelings awards. Employment tribunals recognize the serious impact of discrimination based on sexual orientation.
Your sexual orientation is part of who you are, not grounds for workplace discrimination. Everyone deserves equal treatment and respect.
%20Large.jpeg)
Frequently asked questions
