Discrimination Support

Understand Your Rights and Take Action

Experiencing discrimination can feel isolating and overwhelming. We’re here to help you understand your rights and provide guidance on taking steps to address and challenge unfair treatment.

Facing Discrimination? You’re Not Alone

Discrimination happens when someone is treated unfairly because of who they are. It can affect people in many areas of life, including at work, in education, when accessing services, or in public life. At Citizens Advice Staffordshire South West, we’re here to help you understand your rights and the steps you can take to challenge unfair treatment.

What Counts as Discrimination?

Discrimination can be:

• Direct discrimination – when you are treated less favourably because of a protected characteristic.
• Indirect discrimination – when policies, rules, or practices disadvantage certain groups, even if it isn’t intentional.

Protected characteristics under UK law include:

• Age
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Marriage and civil partnership
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Race
• Religion or belief
• Sex
• Sexual orientation

Recognising discrimination is the first step in protecting your rights.

Discrimination in the Workplace

In the workplace, discrimination can take many forms, including:

• Being unfairly treated or excluded from opportunities
• Harassment or bullying
• Being overlooked for promotion, training, or benefits

The Equality Act 2010 protects employees from discrimination based on the characteristics listed above. If you think you’ve experienced discrimination at work, it’s important to understand your rights and the options available to you.

How to Take Action

If you experience discrimination, you can:

• Raise the issue with the person or organisation, either informally or formally.
• Seek mediation or alternative dispute resolution to help resolve the issue.
• File a complaint or take legal action with relevant bodies if needed.

Keeping a record of incidents, including emails, messages, or witness accounts, can strengthen your case.

Getting Support

Citizens Advice provides free, confidential guidance on discrimination. We can help you understand your rights, options, and how to take action. Other sources of support include:

• Equality Advisory Support Service (EASS) – for confidential advice and assistance on discrimination.

You don’t have to face discrimination alone. Contact us today for guidance and support every step of the way.