August 01, 2011
A person's choice over their sexual orientation continues to be a major cause of discrimination in the UK, despite increased protection from the law.
This week, the London Lesbian and Gay Switchboard (LLGS) revealed that calls from gay people claiming to be bullied at work due to their sexuality are now an every day occurrence.
"It happens at all levels, in private sector and public sector organisations and can be very stressful, demoralising and isolating," A spokesman for the organisation told the Independent.
“Just because this sort of discrimination is no longer legal doesn’t mean it no longer happens.”
But Peter Purton, Policy Officer for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender at the Trades Union Congress, pointed out that everyone should be free to choose their sexual preferences and should not feel they have to suffer in silence.
“Sometimes it’s just one person who’s the problem, with the other workers going along with it because they feel unable to challenge this behavior. Once they see management taking action, they feel able to challenge it and help develop a more positive attitude,” said Mr Purton.
If you've been discriminated against in the workplace, for you sexual orientation or otherwise, contact our employment law experts today and make sure your treatment does not go unpunished.
