Workplace discrimination is when an employee or job applicant is treated unfairly due to protected characteristics such as race, gender, age, religion, sexual orientation, or disability. These actions violate the Equality Act 2010 and can affect a person’s confidence, income, mental health, and career progression.
In a diverse borough like Brent, where people from many backgrounds contribute to the workforce, discrimination can appear in subtle or overt ways. Whether it is unequal pay, offensive remarks, failure to promote, or unfair dismissal, employees have a legal right to challenge this behaviour and seek compensation for the harm they have suffered.
Marley Solicitors supports workers in Brent who have experienced discrimination at work. We offer clear legal advice and professional representation to help you get the justice you deserve.
What is workplace discrimination?
Workplace discrimination occurs when you are treated less favourably at work because of a protected characteristic. These include:
- Age
- Disability
- Gender reassignment
- Marriage or civil partnership
- Pregnancy or maternity
- Race
- Religion or belief
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
Discrimination can happen during recruitment, while employed, during redundancy processes, or even when applying for promotions or training opportunities.
What are the types of workplace discrimination?
Understanding the different forms of discrimination helps identify when your rights may have been violated:
- Direct discrimination – being treated worse than others because of a protected characteristic
- Indirect discrimination – when a workplace rule or policy disadvantages a group
- Harassment – unwanted behaviour that causes distress, humiliation, or offence
- Victimisation – unfair treatment for making a complaint or supporting someone else’s complaint
For example, if a disabled employee is excluded from meetings because of assumptions about their ability, or if a Muslim employee is denied time off for religious observance, this may constitute discrimination.
Can I make a workplace discrimination claim in Brent?
Yes. If you believe your employer in Brent has discriminated against you, you may have a valid claim. Discrimination can occur in any type of workplace, from schools and hospitals to shops, offices, construction sites, and warehouses.
Many claims in Brent arise from:
- Unequal treatment between male and female workers
- Dismissals following maternity leave
- Lack of reasonable adjustments for disabled employees
- Racial or religious harassment
- Age-based exclusion from opportunities
- Hostile work environments for LGBTQ+ employees
- Discriminatory hiring or promotion practices
It is your legal right to work in an environment that respects diversity and treats everyone fairly.
What should I do if I experience discrimination?
Taking early action helps protect your rights and build a strong claim:
- Document incidents – Keep records of what happened, including dates, times, and names of those involved
- Report the behaviour – Raise the issue informally with your manager or HR department if possible
- Submit a formal grievance – Follow your company’s grievance procedure to escalate the matter
- Speak to a solicitor – Marley Solicitors can review your case and help you decide on next steps
Do not feel pressured to stay silent. Your experiences are valid and may qualify for legal action.
What can compensation cover?
If your claim succeeds, compensation may include:
- Injury to feelings
- Loss of earnings
- Future income losses
- Damages for stress, anxiety, or depression
- Pension losses due to early departure
- Loss of statutory benefits
- Legal costs, in some cases
In certain situations, the Employment Tribunal may also order your employer to reinstate your role, rehire you in a different position, or revise policies and training within the company.
How much compensation could I receive?
Compensation is based on several factors, including the severity of the discrimination, how long it lasted, and the impact on your well-being and career.
As a general guide, injury to feelings may be awarded as follows:
- Lower band: £1,100 to £11,200 – for less serious cases
- Middle band: £11,200 to £33,700 – for more serious but not extreme cases
- Upper band: £33,700 to £56,200 – for the most severe cases
Loss of earnings and other damages are assessed separately and can significantly increase the total amount.
Some successful cases in London boroughs have resulted in compensation of over £100,000 when combining emotional distress, lost income, and future losses.
Local resources in Brent
You may also find support through local services:
- Brent Council Equalities Service – support and guidance on equality matters
- ACAS – conciliation and workplace rights information
- Brent Citizens Advice Bureau – help with discrimination and employment disputes
- NHS Talking Therapies in Brent – mental health support for stress and anxiety
- Community Action on Racial Equality (CARE Brent) – outreach and support for marginalised groups
- Disability Rights UK – guidance for disabled employees experiencing inequality at work
Marley Solicitors can also refer you to independent counsellors and medical experts to support your recovery.
Why choose Marley Solicitors?
We have helped many individuals in Brent stand up to workplace discrimination and restore their dignity and financial security. Our service includes:
- Free initial consultation
- Discreet and compassionate support
- Representation during conciliation and tribunal proceedings
- No upfront legal fees in many cases
- Clear communication and step-by-step guidance
- Access to specialist employment law barristers when required
- Assistance with gathering witness evidence and employer documentation
We understand how emotionally draining workplace discrimination can be and work hard to protect your rights and well-being.
FAQs
How long do I have to bring a discrimination claim?
You must usually begin your claim within three months less one day from the date of the last discriminatory act. Acting promptly is essential.
Do I have to quit my job to make a claim?
No. You can make a claim while still employed. However, some people feel their position becomes untenable and choose to resign. We can advise you on your options.
Will I need to attend an Employment Tribunal?
Many cases settle through conciliation via ACAS. If a tribunal is necessary, we will represent you and prepare you for the hearing.
Can I claim against a manager or colleague directly?
Yes. In some cases, claims can be made against individuals as well as the employer. We will assess whether this applies to your situation.
What if I signed a settlement agreement?
Depending on the terms, you may still be able to claim. Let us review your agreement and provide advice.
Take action against workplace discrimination in Brent
If you have been mistreated at work because of who you are, you deserve justice. Marley Solicitors is ready to help you challenge discrimination and move forward with strength and support.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation and find out how we can help you reclaim your rights.
