UKI'm being discriminated against because of my race at work. What law protects me?
The Equality Act 2010 protects you from race discrimination at work. It makes it unlawful for employers to treat you unfairly because of your race, colour, nationality, or ethnic or national origins.
What the Law Says
The Equality Act 2010 is the main law protecting people in the UK from discrimination, including at work. Section 13 specifically defines direct discrimination — treating someone less favourably because of a protected characteristic, such as race.
Race is a 'protected characteristic' under the Equality Act 2010. This includes your colour, nationality, ethnic or national origins.
Direct race discrimination happens when someone treats you worse than another person in a similar situation because of your race — for example, denying you promotion, pay rises, or training opportunities.
The law also covers indirect discrimination, harassment, and victimisation related to race — all unlawful under Parts 5 (work) and 8 (advancement of equality) of the Act.
Statutory TextA person (A) discriminates against another (B) if A treats B less favourably than A treats or would treat others because of a protected characteristic.
— Equality Act 2010, s. 13 — Direct discrimination
What to Do
Keep clear records: dates, times, witnesses, and what was said or done.
Raise the issue informally first — speak to your manager or HR, or use your employer’s grievance procedure.
If unresolved, make a formal written grievance following your employer’s policy.
You may bring a claim to an Employment Tribunal — but you must usually do so within 3 months less one day of the discriminatory act.
Seek free advice from ACAS, Citizens Advice, or a specialist employment solicitor before filing.
Sources
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JapanNot legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.