Age discrimination

It was clearly not the DTI’s policy intention that age discrimination claims should be subject to a fixed period of conciliation. They do aim to remedy the oversight as soon as possible. Consequently, until that happens, We understand that it is the intention of Acas to exercise its power to conciliate in all age discrimination claims which are not resolved within the 13 week fixed period.

For further information www.acas.org.uk/.

From 1 October 2006 the Employment Equality (Age) Regulations make it unlawful to discriminate against workers, employees, job seekers and trainees because of their age.
This booklet, A guide for Employers - Age and the Workplace, describes the regulations and gives you guidance on how to implement them and is available for download from www.acas.org.uk/media/pdf/d/t/6683_Age_and_the_Workplace_AWK.pdf

Workers are covered in the regulations and in this guidance. Workers often undertake roles similar to employees but do not have contracts of employment like employees. Workers include office holders, police, barristers and partners in a business.

The guidance uses the term ‘employee’ throughout to cover all workers except under length of service issues, retirement, and right to request which are for a narrower range of employees.

Fairness at work and good job performance go hand in hand. Tackling discrimination helps to attract, motivate and retain staff and enhances your reputation as an employer. Eliminating discrimination helps everyone to have an equal opportunity to work and to develop their skills.