The UK Equality Act 2010 (the “Act”) covers all areas of equality
and discrimination legislation. The Codes of Practice (the “Codes”) are
key to understanding the new obligations under the Act.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission (“EHRC”) has produced draft
Codes of Practice (the “Codes”) in connection with the Act.
The Codes
The Codes cover Employment, Equal Pay and Services, Public Functions
and Associations and their purpose is to explain the statutory
provisions of the Act.
The Codes are designed to ensure that the Act is applied
consistently by the courts and tribunals as well as making the Act
accessible to a lay audience, including those who have rights and their
representatives. Therefore they are a good source of reference for HR
Professionals.
The Codes are comprehensive and set out exactly what the legislation means, using case law to do so where appropriate.
The Codes were laid before Parliament on 12 October 2010 and as the
requisite 40 days have now passed they may come into force at any time.
Resources
Draft Code of Practice on Employment
Draft Code of Practice on Equal Pay
Draft Code of Practice on Services, Public Functions and Associations
For further information or to discuss the issues raised, please get in touch.