In terms of discovering the range of ways in which people experience discrimination, I think firstly I should explain that discrimination is the act of treating someone unfairly or differently because of who they are, due to certain beliefs or because they possess certain characteristics. There are many forms of discrimination and sadly, despite the Equality Act 2010 and the fact that everyone falls under several protected characteristics, it is still a problem in society.
The Equality Act 2010 highlights nine protected characteristics. It is against the law to discriminate against anyone because of the following:
• Age
• Sex
• Gender reassignment
• Sexual orientation
• Disability
• Race including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin
• Religion
• Being pregnant or on maternity leave
• Being married or in a civil partnership
Under the Equality Act 2010, you are protected from discrimination in the following instances:
• At work
• In education
• As a consumer
• When using public services
• When buying or renting a property
• As a member or guest of a private club/association
You are also protected from discrimination if you’re associated with someone who falls under any of the nine protected characteristics, if you’ve complained about discrimination or have supported another person’s claim.
You can be discriminated against in a number of ways.
Direct discrimination is when someone treats another person with a protected characteristic less favourably than others, for example: If you have the right qualifications for a job role, but you’re turned down because you are ‘too young’ or ‘too old’.
Indirect discrimination is when a rule, policy or set of arrangements are in place that, while applying to everyone, put someone with a protected characteristic at an unfair disadvantage. Indirect discrimination is more difficult to identify than direct discrimination, as to the majority it looks normal.
Harassment is any unwanted behaviour that makes another person feel intimidated, offended or humiliated. This may be in the form of jokes, abuse, physical gestures, verbal or nonverbal words or offensive emails and expressions. If it violates a person’s dignity or creates an uncomfortable, offensive environment for them, it is harassment.
Victimisation is when someone is treated poorly as a result of them complaining or reporting a discrimination offence or harassment. This also includes a person being victimised because they supported another victim of discrimination.
Discrimination can also come in the form of association and perception.
Discrimination by association is when a person is treated unfairly because they know, or are associated with someone with a protected characteristic, for example: Being refused entry to a bar or restaurant because their friend is of a particular race or religion.
Discrimination by perception is any unfair treatment put on a person because someone thinks they belong to a particular group with protected characteristics, for example: When someone of a particular race is denied a product or opportunity as a result of misconception on their behaviour, appearance etc.
It is important to be aware of discrimination and diversity issues, and use your knowledge of them to inform your counselling sessions.
