Essential points
- It is against the law to discriminate against someone because they possess one of the ‘protected characteristics’ named in the Equality Act 2010. This includes age.
- Age discrimination encompasses discrimination against people of all ages and at all stages of the recruitment, promotion, employment and redundancy.
- Both workers and employees are covered under the Equality Act 2010.
- Direct, indirect, victimisation and harassment are all forms of age discrimination in employment which are prohibited.
- Direct and indirect age discrimination can be justified if the treatment or provision criterion or practice in question is a proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim. This is unusual and is in contrast to other forms of discrimination where usually only indirect discrimination can be justified.
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While every care has been taken in compiling this content, the CIPD cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. These notes are not intended to be a substitute for specific legal advice.
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