Nursery World - Whose right?

It is important for managers to understand how discrimination law applies to their setting. Christine Betts offers some advice Complex issues of diversity and equality arise in all workplaces, and nurseries are no exception. In many instances, they can lead to conflict between the wishes of a parent or staff member and the legal obligations of the employer to prevent discrimination.

Complex issues of diversity and equality arise in all workplaces, and nurseries are no exception. In many instances, they can lead to conflict between the wishes of a parent or staff member and the legal obligations of the employer to prevent discrimination.

What is the starting point for an employer when considering discrimination?

The starting point must be employers' legal obligations set out in the laws introduced to counter discrimination. These laws include:

* the Sex Discrimination Act

* the Race Discrimination Act

* the Disability Discrimination Act

* Regulations dealing with sexual orientation and religion and belief.

This legislation currently outlaws discrimination on the grounds of sex, marital status, gender reassignment, race, disability, religion or belief and sexual orientation. Soon to be added to this list is age discrimination, with regulations due to come into force in October 2006.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included