Types of discrimination (protected characteristics)
It is against the law to discriminate against anyone because of:
age
gender reassignment
being married or in a civil partnership
being pregnant (external link) or on maternity leave
race including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin
religion or belief
sex
sexual orientation
You are protected from discrimination:
at work
in education
as a consumer
when using public services
when buying or renting property
as a member or guest of a private club or association
You are legally protected from discrimination by the Equality Act 2010 (external link).
You are also protected from discrimination if:
you are associated with someone who has a protected characteristic, for example a family member or friend
you have complained about discrimination or supported someone else’s claim
Action against discrimination
You can do something voluntarily to help people with a protected characteristic. This is called positive action.
Taking positive action is legal if people with a protected characteristic:
are at a disadvantage
have particular needs
are under-represented in an activity or type of work