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In a recent case of racial harassment an employer put forward a ‘Reasonable Steps Defence’; claiming that all reasonable steps had been taken to prevent employees from engaging in discrimination against people, in the workplace, who had a protected characteristic.

The employer had a written an Equality & Diversity Policy and had provided Equality and Diversity Training. However, the Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) has highlighted that there is a direct link between the quality of the training and the frequency by which the training is provided.

Having a policy and providing training, on its own, is insufficient to be able to rely on a ‘Reasonable Steps Defence’ in cases of discrimination, harassment and victimisation. The quality and frequency of the training will also be taken into account. As an aside, the EAT also commented on inconsistencies found in the Equality & Diversity Policy that had been presented to the Tribunal.

Specialist Human Resources Limited now provides Equality & Diversity Training covering:

  • Protected Characteristics
  • Discrimination, Harassment, Victimisation
  • The Difference between Direct Discrimination and Indirect Discrimination (explained)
  • Provision, Criterion or Practice (in connection to Indirect Discrimination – explained)
  • Employer’s and Employees’ Liability
  • Adverse Treatment on the Grounds of Pregnancy
  • Employer Defence
  • Positive Discrimination
  • Unconscious Bias

In addition to explaining the law with regard to Discrimination, Harassment & Victimisation, the course provides guidance on how such actions can have a detrimental effect on productivity, employee engagement, innovation and creativity in the workplace.

This training is delivered by a legally qualified business consultant who is able to draw on the latest case law reports from both the Employment Tribunal and from Courts of Law.

The cost of Equality & Diversity Training is provided at a fraction of the cost of having to pay compensation to a complainant, together with the associated legal fees, and bearing the losses brought about by the detrimental effect on employee engagement, productivity, innovation and creativity that is brought about by discrimination, harassment and victimisation in the workplace.

We can also help in the drafting of a comprehensive policy covering all aspects of Equality & Diversity.  If you would like to know more, please contact us on 01522 688869 or email: [email protected]