Under the Equality Act 2010 it is illegal to discriminate against an employee because they have a disability (either mental or physical), are perceived to have a disability or because of their association with someone who is disabled. A disability is classed as any physical or mental impairment which has a substantially adverse and long-term effect on an employee's ability to carry out normal day-to-day activities, such as using a telephone or computer or following instructions.
There are four main types of discrimination:
- direct discrimination
- indirect discrimination
- harassment
- victimisation
As an employer you should have rules in place to prevent disability discrimination.
Acas have produced a detailed guide to disability discrimination in the workplace. The Disability discrimination - key points for the workplace guide gives up to date information for employers on all aspects of disability discrimination including what it is, how and where it can happen and what you should do if an employee raises a complaint.
Download the Disability discrimination - key points for the workplace guide from the Acas website.
Browse topics: Employment law