Sex Discrimination Act

The two pieces of legislation in Great Britain which make provision relating to discrimination on the grounds of sex are the Sex Discrimination Act 1975 and the Equal Pay Act 1970. They apply equally to women and men. There are similar laws in Northern Ireland.

The Sex Discrimination Act

The Sex Discrimination Act 1975 (SDA) offers protection against unlawful discrimination to both men and women. It makes sex discrimination unlawful in employment, vocational training, education, the provision and sale of goods, facilities and services, the management and letting of premises and the exercise of public functions.

In employment and vocational training, it is also unlawful to discriminate against someone on the grounds that a person is married or a civil partner or on the ground of gender reassignment.

(top)

The Role of Acas

The Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) can advise or conciliate in individual cases. Where a complaint about sex discrimination is upheld by a tribunal, the employer or training provider may have to pay compensation. The tribunal may also make a recommendation that the respondent takes a particular course of action. Visit their website at http://www.acas.org.uk.

The Role of the Equality and Human Rights Commission

The Equality and Human Rights Commission is working to eliminate discrimination, to reduce inequality, to protect human rights and to build good relations, ensuring that everyone has a fair chance to participate in society.

The Commission's role includes giving advice and guidance to businesses, the voluntary and public sectors, and to individuals through their helpline and online resources

0845 604 6610 - England

0845 604 8810 - Wales

0845 604 5510 - Scotland

Visit their website at www.equalityhumanrights.com

(top)

Back to Sex Discrimination Legislation homepage