Discrimination in the Workplace: A Serious Risk to Business and Employee Wellbeing

Discrimination at work can be a complicated issue to navigate, whilst often going unnoticed or unaddressed it can majorly affect a business’ performance in the most unexpected of ways. Discrimination can come in many forms and can sometimes be so subtle that although never formally addressed, can create major issues for a business through its psychological effect on employees. Equality in the workplace should be strived for and sought after in every workplace by every employer and employee, as the consequences of inequality and discrimination can be detrimental.

Employment Law in Scotland: Understanding the Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act (2010) was groundbreaking in the protections it afforded to individuals against unfair treatment in the workplace based on what are deemed “protected characteristics”. The legislation states there are nine characteristics which are afforded these protections, and these are things such as age, race, gender and sex. The protected characteristics as named in the Act advocate for an equal playing field for all by preventing any acts of less favourable treatment. The Act works to provide a clear and concise framework to the rights and protections for those who may feel as though they are being treated unfavourably. For employers, it gives robust guidelines as to what they should be actively looking to protect their employees against. By complying with the Act, employers are advocating for equality and fairness for all, across the board. Also, they create an inclusive and welcoming workplace. The Act works for employers and employees imposing duties and responsibilities which when worked with, create a harmonious and thriving work environment.

The Hidden Effects of Discrimination: Advice from Discrimination Lawyers

However, the reality is that discrimination is far more nuanced in day-to-day life. Equality in the workplace allows all individuals to excel in their roles and grow in their confidence whilst performing to their best ability, in turn allowing the business to flourish. For both employers and employees, a working environment should be a safe space for all and free from unfair or discriminatory treatment.

Protecting Workplace Equality Across Scotland: The Role of Employment Lawyers

Having a workplace which is viewed as fair, inclusive and safe for all is essential for a business to grow and succeed. The protection against discrimination based on the “protected characteristics” is so important as it is every individual’s right to feel respected and valued as a person, not only in the workplace but in life. The culture and approach to discrimination from a business has a direct link to the wellbeing of its employees. When there is a sense of respect and value from employer to employee, the latter can be more motivated and engaged in what they produce in their work. Leading to top quality output and streamlined efficiency. When a workplace gains the reputation of holding equality as a true value, it becomes sought after and begins to attract and retain the top talent. There is such an importance behind the protection of equality in the workplace; in doing so we avoid things such as decreased productivity, efficiency and morale. Employers and employees alike have a duty to each other to promote and actively engage in the respectable and equal treatment of others.

While obvious acts of discrimination are still a major concern, it is the detrimental effects of the subtle and indistinct, which carry the biggest consequences. Discrimination can create tensions and a sense of discomfort within the workplace and can quickly turn a healthy environment into a toxic one, generating a bad reputation for a business. Employees who feel as though they are being treated less favourably, may feel a sense of premature burnout, leading to a decrease in productivity and enthusiasm toward their role. There can be serious mental impacts for an employee who feels as though they are being treated unfavourably, there may be a build-up of stress relating to performance-based tasks and undervaluation. In some cases, the effects of this can lead to lengthy absences, and even a high staff turnover, both of which will have a negative impact on the business’ operations.

The actual form of discrimination which an employee is subjected to can vary in severity and projection; however, the consequences of said discriminatory acts are all equally as damaging as each other. When there is discrimination present in a workplace it can chip away at the trust between colleagues and at the self-esteem of individuals. This breakdown in the culture within the workplace can create divides between teams and animosity between colleagues, leading to a decrease in collaboration and internal growth. Which in turn stumps creativity and can often induce workplace-based anxiety, dulling performance and halting productivity.

Need Legal Guidance? Contact Our Employment Law Team in Glasgow

If you’re unsure about your responsibilities under the Equality Act 2010 or are concerned about discrimination in the workplace, our experienced employment law solicitors in Glasgow are here to help.

Whether you need help preventing future issues or addressing existing concerns, we offer tailored legal advice for employees and employers. We can also assist with: