Equality & Appearance...
Below are our articles on the subject of Equality & Appearance. If you can't see what you are looking for our other categories are displayed on the left under 'Our Quick Links'...
A Brief Overview of World Religions
Many religions exist and are practiced in the world today. This article briefly introduces some of the largest of the world religions....
Ability and Age: Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you are being discriminate against because of your age or ability, read our frequently asked questions to understand your rights....
Age Discrimination and The Law
Age discrimination, also known as ageism, is based on age and often goes unnoticed in the United Kingdom. This article discusses various forms of age discrimination, laws against it and how it is bei...
Age Related Workplace Concerns
Though workers are protected against discrimination based on age by the Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006, there may still be age related concerns in the workplace. Understanding age related...
Ageism and Health and Social Care
Ageism, or discrimination related to age, is unfortunately not necessarily regulated by legislation in the areas of health and social care. This article discusses some ageist practices in health and ...
Ageism and the Consumer
Ageism, or discrimination related to age, is unfortunately not regulated by legislation in the consumer arena. This article discusses some ageist practices in relation to insurance, credit and advert...
Are Students Being Racist Towards Me?
Bad manners are horrible to deal with but unless they are targeted at you because of your race, then it is not racism....
Body Bullying as Discrimination
Body bullying serves no purpose other than to make others feel bad about themselves. Recognising this bullying for what it is, exploring the causes of it, acknowledging the negative effects it can hav...
Breach of Human Rights
Though human rights are universal, breaches of human rights do occur. This article discusses the treaties and laws that guard human rights, the courts which hear human rights cases and the organisati...
Celebrating Diversity in the Workplace
Celebrating diversity in the workplace should positively affect all employees. Policies and procedures, in-service and training, formal programmes and informal actions are all methods through which d...
Celebrating Holidays in the Workplace
Celebrating religious holidays in the workplace can be tricky. Creating an office policy on holiday celebrations can help to provide rules and goals for such celebrations....
Challenging Ageist Attitudes
Ageist attitudes are damaging both to those who hold them and those who are hurt by them. Challenging ageist attitudes in employment, in the community and in the media is imperative to reducing ageis...
Checklist: Standing Up for Your Equal Opportunities
Follow our checklist to make sure you stand up for your equal opportunities....
Children's Rights in the UK and Abroad
Children are vulnerable members of society and unfortunately children’s rights are not always observed. This article discusses international children’s rights, children’s rights in the UK and organis...
Civil Partnership Laws in the UK and Abroad
Civil partnerships are a relatively new legal concept in the United Kingdom. This article discusses the Civil Partnership Act of 2004 and how to find further information on civil partnerships in the ...
Confronting Ageism
Ageism is both inappropriate and illegal, but sadly it does still occur. Confronting individuals about their thoughts and actions, reporting discrimination and educating others about ageism are all w...
Confronting Gender Based Pay Discrimination
Confronting gender based pay discrimination is most successful when you are well prepared for such a confrontation. So read on and find out how to prepare yourself....
Confronting Homophobia
Discrimination due to sexual orientation is both inappropriate and illegal, but sadly it does still occur. Confronting individuals about their thoughts and actions, reporting discrimination and educa...
Confronting Indirect Racism
Indirect racism can be hard to confront because those who engage in it may not even be aware of what they are doing. Refusal to engage, benign ignorance, jokes and banter and imitations and mockery a...
Confronting Religious Discrimination
Discrimination due to religion is both inappropriate and illegal, but sadly it does still occur. Confronting individuals about their thoughts and actions, reporting discrimination and educating other...
Confronting Sexism and Sex Discrimination
Discrimination due to sex/gender is both inappropriate and illegal, but sadly it does still occur. Confronting individuals about their thoughts and actions, reporting discrimination and educating oth...
Coping With My Career and a Disability: A Case Study
Alex says that all disabled people should stand up for their rights and help attitudes to change....
Definition and Explanation of "Gender"
“Gender” is a term that is used interchangeably with “sex” to denote whether an individual is a male or female. This article discusses gender and UK law, sexism in the UK, women’s rights around the w...
Disability and Health and Social Care
A variety of health and social care services are available to individuals with disabilities. This article discusses assessment, disability benefits and registering as a disabled individual in order t...
Disability Discrimination and the Law
Discrimination based on disability still exists in the UK, but there are many laws protecting the rights of individuals living with disabilities....
Disability Discrimination and Your Rights
Disability discrimination, or the second-class treatment of individuals living with physical, mental and/or emotional disabilities, is unfortunately still a facet of our society. This article discuss...
Discrimination and Sexual Orientation
Sexual orientation, or the natural sexual attractions that an individual feels for others, has unfortunately long been a characteristic that can bring about discrimination. This article explores the ...
Discrimination Due to Body Art and Modification
Both body art and modification create less traditional physical appearances, and some people react to such appearances with fear, prejudice and discrimination. Understanding body art, body modificatio...
Discussing Equal Rights With Older Adults
It might seem awkward or even condescending to attempt to discuss equal rights with older adults, but older adults deserve to be treated in the same way as any other adults. Discussing the societal c...
Discussing Unequal Pay With an Employer
Discussing unequal pay with an employer will never be nice, but it may be necessary to ensure that you are paid fairly for your work. Preparing well, asking for a private meeting and following up as ...
Educating Children About Equal Rights
Children learn from what they see and hear, so adults should help them to see and hear the benefits of equal rights. Addressing differences between people, explaining respect, encouraging self-respec...
Equipment for Inclusion of Disabled People
The Disability Discrimination Act of 1995 and Part M of the UK Building Regulations work together to require buildings which are for public use or access to be made accessible to all members of the pu...
Explaining a Disability in the Classroom
Explaining a disability in the classroom can be a great way to quickly and easily convey information and answer questions. If you are considering this kind of action be sure to consider the method yo...
Explaining Your Religion to Others
Explaining your religion to others can be tricky, but it may help you correct some of the falsehoods that others hold about your beliefs or practices....
Fat-ism and Discrimination
Fatism is a widespread problem in society, yet also a type of discrimination in which many refuse to believe. Learning more about the basic beliefs held by fatists, the prevalence of fatism in society...
Fighting Ageism in the Community
Ageism, or age-based discrimination, affects everyone in a community. This article discusses how communities can fight ageism such as by getting to know each community member, addressing ageism speci...
Fighting Racism in the Community
Racism is a form of discrimination based on an individual’s race. This article discusses how communities can fight racism including communicating their views on racism to all members, understanding h...
Fighting Sexism in the Community
A community is only as strong and vibrant as its members and sexism can weaken communities by dividing it along gender lines. This article discusses how communities can become truly sustainable when ...
Gender and Sexuality: Frequently Asked Questions
Check our frequently asked questions to make sure you are not a victim of gender or sexuality discrimination....
Glossary of Ability and Disability Terms
Discussions of physical, mental, emotional, learning, developmental and acquired disabilities can become murky with technical words, jargon and acronyms. This article provides definitions of terms co...
Glossary of Common Religious Terms
Discussions of religion are often burdened by theological terms that not everyone understands. A glossary of common religious terms is a great reference for anyone interested in discussing or learnin...
Glossary of Terms that Qualify as 'Racist'
Discussions of race, colour, ethnicity, culture and discrimination can become confusing due to the variety of technical terms, jargon and acronyms that may be employed. This article provides definiti...
High Profile Discrimination Cases
Some high profile discrimination cases will always be remembered so we take a look at a few....
Homophobia in the Classroom
Homophobia is the fear or hatred of homosexuality and homosexuals. This article offers advice on dealing with homophobia in the classroom....
How are Human Rights Protected?
Human rights are acknowledged as universal around the world, though unfortunately they still need protecting. This article discusses how human rights are protected by international treaties, national...
How Human Rights Are Defended
Human rights are protected and defended in a variety of ways. This article discusses how international treaties, national legislation, courts and voluntary organisations protect and defend human righ...
How I Dealt With Discrimination: A Case Study
If you are facing sexist harassment then you need to take stand, as Kirsty explains....
How to Confront Disability Discrimination
Discrimination against individuals with disabilities is both inappropriate and illegal, but sadly it does still occur. Confronting individuals about their thoughts and actions, reporting organisation...
How to Confront Racism
Discrimination due to race is both inappropriate and illegal, but sadly it does still occur. Confronting individuals about their thoughts and actions, reporting discrimination and educating others ab...
How to Confront Racism in Sport
Confronting racism in sport is important so that each player and spectator can enjoy a fair and equal experience. This article discusses how understanding racism, knowing how racism pertains to sport...
How to Tackle Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment still exists across the United Kingdom. This article discusses laws that outlaw sexual discrimination and harassment, as well as steps that all organisations and individuals can tak...
Human Rights Act 1998
The Human Rights Act 1998 was a landmark piece of UK legislation which has been in force since 2000. Understanding the contents of, necessity for and ramifications of violating this Act is important ...
Human Rights and the Law
Human rights are accepted as universal, and a variety of international treaties form the basis of international human rights law. This article discusses the international treaties, national laws and ...
Is my Employer in the Wrong?
An employee is barred from smoking on outside company property after 5pm. This article discusses the smoking ban and employer's responsibilities toward smoking employees....
Is this Advert 'Ageist'?
Employers are required, by law, to keep any age related comments out of job adverts....
Limiting Opportunities for Sexism in Social Activities
Employers could be liable for sexism or sexual harassment which occurs at workplace related social activities. Circulating a clear policy on sexism, advertising the consequences of sexism at social a...
National Rail: Is it Failing Pensioners?
A senior person feels that the availability of the three year Senior Railcard buy online purchase only is not satisfactory. We have reviewed the availability of Senior Railcards from multiple outlets...
Promoting Disability Awareness
Promoting disability awareness requires consistent effort and continuous creativity to hold the attention of everyone involved. Formal training, literature, dedicated programmes and informal socialis...
Put Your Work Relationship on an Equal Footing
How to raise concerns that you are being disadvantaged in the work place by the lack of equal opportunities, how to address the problem and to try and reach a solution on an equal footing with your e...
Putting Together a GLBT Support Organisation
Putting together a GLBT support organisation may take a lot of research, careful planning and quite a lot of energy and enthusiasm, but when your group becomes a vibrant part of your community all of ...
Questionnaire: Can You Recognise Racism?
Racism still exists but it can be quite subtle and lead people to wonder if what they witnessed was really racism at all. This questionnaire presents examples of racism and allows readers to determin...
Questionnaire: Can You Recognise Sexism?
Sexism still exists, but not everyone knows the many forms it takes. This questionnaires allows readers to determine if they can recognise sexism when it happens and offers advice on how to challenge...
Questionnaire: Do You Challenge Discrimination?
Most people hold prejudices, and when they thoughts become actions discrimination occurs. Determining if you challenge discrimination consistently will help you reflect on what you really believe and...
Questionnaire: Do You Discriminate Against Others?
Many people who discriminate against others are surprised to think of themselves in this way. This questionnaire allows readers to determine if they discriminate against others and offers advice on h...
Questionnaire: Does Your School Support Diversity?
UK schools are committed to providing quality education to all students, but some are not quite as committed to supporting diversity. Reflecting on the ways in which a school can support and celebrat...
Questionnaire: Experienced Discrimination School?
Knowing if you have been discriminated against at school can be a challenge. After all, there are many types and forms of discrimination, and not all of them always physically take place at school. R...
Questionnaire: Have You Been Sexually Harassed?
Sexual harassment can occur at any time and to anyone. This questionnaire allows readers to determine if they have experienced sexual harassment and offers advice on how to move forward if they have....
Questionnaire: Have You Experienced Ageism?
Ageism is a type of discrimination based on a person's age. Ageism can be subtle, and some people aren't even sure that they have been the victims of ageism until well after an incident. This questi...
Questionnaire: Have You Experienced Religious Discrimination?
Though there is legislation which protects individuals against religious discrimination in employment and education such discrimination does still exist. This questionnaire will help readers informal...
Questionnaire: Is it Disability Discrimination?
It can be very hard to prove or even recognise disability discrimination when it does occur. This questionnaire will help readers determine if they believe themselves the victims of disability discri...
Questionnaire: Is Your Workplace Supportive of Diversity?
Diversity in the workplace can still be a sensitive issues, particularly if some employees believe that there is great diversity and equal opportunities but other employees feel that there is still di...
Questionnaires: Can You Recognise Ageism?
Ageism, or discrimination against individuals due to their ages, is a subtle but prevalent concept in our society. Reflect on your own attitudes about age and ability to learn more about whether or n...
Race and Religion: Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding what constitutes racial or religious discrimination will help you stand up for your rights....
Racism and the Law
Racism and racial discrimination still exist in the UK, but there are many laws protecting the rights of all individuals. This article discusses UK legislation outlawing racial discrimination, intern...
Racism in the Classroom
Racism and racial discrimination still exist and unfortunately may be found in our classrooms. This article discusses racism and the law in the United Kingdom as well as dealing with racist bullying ...
Recognising and Reporting Racial Discrimination
Racial discrimination still exists across the United Kingdom. This article discusses racial discrimination and the law, recognising racial discrimination, reporting racial discrimination and confront...
Religion and Your Employment Rights
Discrimination due to religion is both inappropriate and illegal, but sadly it does still occur. This article explores the laws regarding religion and employment in the UK, discusses types of discrim...
Religion Laws in the UK and Abroad
Religious discrimination still exists in the UK, but there are laws protecting the rights of all individuals and ways in which anyone can fight religious and all other forms of discrimination....
Religious Discrimination in the Classroom
Religious discrimination in the classroom is still a concern for students across the United Kingdom. This article discusses religion in the United Kingdom, how students can recognise religious discri...
Sexism and the Consumer
Sexism, or discrimination related to sex/gender, is unfortunately still practiced in some consumer arenas. This article discusses some sexist practices in relation to insurance, credit and advertisin...
Sexism in the Classroom
Sexism in the classroom is still a concern for students across the United Kingdom. This article discusses how students can recognise sexism in the classroom, understand why it is wrong and take actio...
Sexism in the Workplace
Sexism in the workplace is still an issue across the United Kingdom. This article discusses the laws that prohibit sexism at work as well as actions that companies and individuals can take to make su...
Sexism Sensitivity Training in the Workplace
Sexism sensitivity training can be a great way for everyone in a given workplace to get on the same page regarding this type of discrimination. If you are considering booking this type of training be...
Sexual Discrimination in the UK and Abroad
Sexual discrimination still exists across the world. This article offers some basic answers to frequently asked questions about sexual discrimination....
Sexual Orientation and the Law
Sexual orientation is the sexual attraction or preference that an individual feels for members of the opposite sex, his or her own sex or both. This article explores the different types of sexual ori...
Sexuality Support Organisations in the UK
There are many sexuality support organisations which exist across the UK. These groups seek to help lesbians, gay men, bisexual individuals, members of the trans community and anyone currently explor...
Sexuality Terms Explained or Defined
Discussions of sexuality and sexual orientation can become confusing due to the variety of technical terms, jargon and acronyms that are related to such subjects. This article provides definitions of...
Single Equality Bill: Employers Must Give Salary Comparisons
The Single Equality Bill is a step forward to help women gain equal pay to their male colleagues....
Speaking to Others About Their Racism
It is awkward, uncomfortable and downright sad when a loved one says or does something racist, but ignoring the incident will not make the racism go away. Speak with others about their racism so that...
Telling Colleagues About Your Sexuality
Telling colleagues about your sexuality is a very personal decision. There are legal protections against employment discrimination due to sexual orientation, but you will likely want to consider the ...
Uglyism and Discrimination
Uglyism, or treating people different due to perceived physical beauty, is a lesser acknowledged form of discrimination which nevertheless permeates society. Understanding the thoughts behind uglyism,...
Unable to Pay National Insurance: Is this Sex Discrimination?
Being unable to contribute to your national insurance while abroad is unfortunate but not sex discrimination....
Understanding Sexual Orientations
Sexual orientation is the sexual attraction or preference that an individual feels for members of the opposite sex, his or her own sex or both. This article explores heterosexuality, homosexuality, b...
Understanding Spirituality and its Role in Society
“Spirituality” could be considered a rather vague term since it very really means different things to different people. This article briefly discusses spirituality and prayer, New Age Spirituality an...
Voluntary Group: How to Create an Equal Op's Policy?
A reader is setting up a voluntary group and wants advice for coming up with an equal opportunities policy. This answer offers information on what should be included in such a policy, as well as expl...
What Are Human Rights?
Human rights are those rights due to all human beings. This article discusses basic human rights as discussed in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) as well as human rights in the United...
What are Your Employment Rights?
The rights of all workers are protected under UK legislation in relation to discrimination based on age, ability, race, religion and sex. This article discusses key legislation dealing with each of t...
What is Ageism?
Ageism, or discrimination based on age, often goes unnoticed in the United Kingdom. This article offers some basic answers to frequently asked questions about ageism in the UK....
What is Gender Identity?
The term “gender identity” is not often widely used in the United Kingdom. This article offers some basic answers to frequently asked questions about gender identity and related topics....
What is Gender Reassignment Surgery?
Gender reassignment surgery is one method by which individuals attempt to bring their external bodies in line with their internal gender identity. This surgery can only be performed following a diagn...
What is Homophobia?
Homophobia and heterosexism still exist across the United Kingdom. This article offers some basic answers to frequently asked questions about these topics....
What is Racism and How to Avoid it?
Racism and racial discrimination still exist across the world. This article offers some basic answers to frequently asked questions about racism and racial discrimination....
What is Weightism?
Weightism is alive and well in society, though not everyone recognises it or even realises it exists. Understanding the different types of weightism, the prevalence of the problem, arguments against i...
Why Can I Not Get My Retirement Pension?
A man has written in asking why he can not draw a pension at the age of 63. The answer describes current State pension standards and offers advice on getting in touch with The Pension Service in Engl...
Women's Rights in the UK and Abroad
Though women’s rights are protected by law, sexism and sexual harassment still exist across the United Kingdom. This article discusses sexism and sexual harassment in the UK as well as the state of w...
Your Rights in the Workplace
Certain workers rights are protected by law in the United Kingdom. This article discusses workers rights to certain standards of health and safety in the workplace, to a workplace free of discriminat...