I believe I have been refused promotion because of my race. Is this legal?

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Published date

20 Jul 2022

It is unlawful to refuse to promote you on the grounds of your race.

Even if your race was not the only reason why you were refused promotion, your employer’s actions will still have been unlawful if your race was a factor in your employer’s thinking.

It is also unlawful to put barriers in place that make it harder for you and for other members of a racial group to secure promotion, when compared to others of a different race, colour or nationality. This is known as 'indirect discrimination'.

Race discrimination can often be subconscious and ingrained, as opposed to overt and deliberate. Either way, it is unlawful.

Note: This content is provided as general background information and shouldn’t be taken as legal advice or financial advice for your particular situation. Whilst it was correct at the time of publication, laws change and the situation may now be different. Make sure to get individual advice on your case from your union, or another trusted advisor before taking any action.

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