Diversity & equality

We have a designated diversity and equality team with experience of advising on all aspects of discrimination and diversity issues.  In particular we have experience in handling complex discrimination claims on behalf of both employers and employees.

In the current economic climate, with employees' income and job security at risk, employee disputes are increasing. Employees are concerned with tackling actual perceived underlying reasons for workplace disputes, particularly those relating to remuneration and dismissal. 

We frequently advise on flexible working arrangements (job share and part-time employment) to meet changing business demands, workplace demographics, whilst avoiding discrimination claims.

The new Equality Bill is due to come into force in April 2010 and we are continually reviewing the impact it will have on employers.  Apart from extending liability for discrimination protection, clarifying rights and obligations, transparency in pay will be a hot topic in the city where remuneration terms are typically shrouded in secrecy.

Experience

Major investment bank on alleged race, sex and disability discrimination claim
Acting for an investment bank in relation to allegations of race, sex and disability discrimination claim brought by an existing senior member of staff.  We advised the bank on all stages of the process from handling the employee's grievance and appeal through to negotiating a settlement of subsequent tribunal proceedings.

National charity on alleged sex, disability discrimination and whistleblowing claim
Acting for a national charity in respect of a claim for sex discrimination, disability discrimination and whistle-blowing.  This matter threw up complicated technical issues and required careful handling to ensure the client's needs were met. 

Representing an international manufacturer on disability discrimination appeal to EAT
Advising and representing a manufacturer employer in a work related stress and constructive dismissal claim involving the defence of allegations of disability discrimination. 

Multimillion pound age and race discrimination settlement for senior executive
Advising our client on an age and racial discrimination claim which resulted in our client receiving a multimillion pound settlement.

Senior executive of major international bank against sex discrimination claims
Advising our client who had suffered a sustained campaign of sex discrimination resulting in the client having a breakdown and being subsequently dismissed.   We won the case on behalf of our client and achieved a significant six figure sum from the employer.