Race discrimination, illegal in the UK since 1976, arises when someone is unfairly disadvantaged for reasons related to their race which, in the Equality Act 2010, includes colour, nationality and ethnic or national origins. 

This factsheet gives an overview of the different types of discrimination, with examples. It highlights the need for employers to act and suggests good employment practices to ensure everyone has fair access and opportunity to progress in work, regardless of racial or ethnic background.

Explore our viewpoint on race inclusion in the workplace in more detail, along with actions for government and recommendations for employers.

On this page

Members access only

Unlock exclusive, tailored content and resources, just for members.

Sign in to access

Not a member yet? Find out how you can become a member today!

CIPD Trust

Tackling barriers to work today whilst creating inclusive workplaces of tomorrow.

Find out more

Bullying
and harassment

Discover our practice guidance and recommendations to tackle bullying and harassment in the workplace.

View our resources

Related content

Employment law
Religion and belief discrimination: UK employment law

Explore our collection of resources around legal issues relating to religion and belief discrimination in the workplace, including philosophical beliefs

For Members
Employment law
Sex discrimination: UK employment law

Explore our collection of resources around legal issues relating to sex discrimination in the workplace, including pregnancy and maternity discrimination

For Members
CIPD Viewpoint
Religion and belief

Explore the CIPD’s point of view on religion and belief, including actions for Government and recommendations for employers

CIPD Viewpoint
Gender equality at work

Explore the CIPD’s point of view on gender equality at work, including recommendations for employers and actions for the UK Government

Explore our other factsheets

Factsheet
HR policies

An overview of the purpose and benefits of HR policies and how to implement and communicate them effectively throughout an organisation

Factsheet
Workforce planning

Explores the benefits of workforce planning, the activities involved and the stages of the workforce planning process

Factsheet
Discipline and grievance at work

Learn the fundamentals of disciplinary and grievance policies and practices in the workplace

Factsheet
Employee relations: an introduction

Understand what employee relations means as a concept and what it means to employers

Factsheets