Age Discrimination

Age discrimination laws help ensure that you are not denied a job, an equal chance of training or a promotion because of your age. Age discrimination laws also protect you from harassment or victimisation because of your age.

Who is protected from age discrimination?
Age discrimination at work is unlawful in almost all types of employment. All employees and workers of any age are protected from age discrimination including partners of companies, contract workers and anyone in vocational training.

All aspects of your employment (or prospective employment) are protected from age discrimination, including your recruitment, employment terms and conditions, promotions, transfers, dismissals and training.

In some cases different treatment of a worker or employee because of their age can be justified, for example making special provisions for younger or older workers in order to protect their safety and welfare.

If you feel you're at a disadvantage because of age-related criteria for recruitment or promotion policies, or if you think you're suffering age discrimination, you'll be able to bring a claim to an Employment Tribunal. However, it's best to talk to your employer first to try to sort out the matter informally. You are entitled to write to your employer if you think you've been discriminated against or harassed because of your age.