Change in definition of direct discrimination

Key changes

The new definition of direct discrimination extends protection based on association and perception to include:

• age (note: there are exceptions around direct discrimination and age, see Equality Act 2010: Implications for higher education institutions)
  
• disability
• gender reassignment
• sex

This is already applicable to race, sexual orientation and religion or belief.

This change means that those providing care for someone due to a protected characteristic would be protected because of their association.

Actions

• Ensure carers understand that they may be protected from discrimination due to association
• Ensure that the protection for carers is reflected in current policies and procedures
  
• Use the new definition of discrimination or outline the full extent of what is covered when gathering evidence around staff and student experiences of discrimination (for example, as part of satisfaction surveys) 

Also see General actions