Sexual Orientation Discrimination Claims

Being discriminated against because of your sexual orientation is against the law. It can also leave you feeling upset, embarrassed and angry.

If you have suffered discrimination on the basis of your sexuality, our expert discrimination solicitors can help you;

1. Create lasting change so other do not experience the indignity you have, and
2. In some cases, claim compensation

What is Sexual Orientation Discrimination?

This when a service provider treats you unfairly because of your sexual orientation.

Service providers include;

• Individuals
• Businesses and
• Organisations

Discriminatory treatment could be a;

1. One-off act, or
2. A policy or policies

That treats you unfavourably because of your sexuality. Even if it is unintentional, it is still unlawful.

What the Equality Act Says About Discrimination Because of Sexual Orientation

The Equality Act 2010 says it is illegal to discriminate against you because you are heterosexual, bisexual, gay or lesbian.

Sexual orientation, or sexuality includes how you express yourself. Either in the way you dress or the places you visit.

Types of Sexuality Discrimination

There are four main types of sexuality discrimination. These are;

Direct Discrimination

This is when someone treats you worse than someone else because of your sexual orientation.

For example, an insurance company only offering a gay man a life insurance policy on the basis that he takes an HIV test.

Indirect Discrimination

This is when a business or organisation has a rule or policy which applies to everyone. However, it puts those with a different sexual orientation at a disadvantage.

For example, if a club only allows entry to members of the LGTBQ+ community and refuses entry to heterosexual men.

Discrimination By Perception

This happens when someone treats you unfairly because they think you have a different sexual orientation.

An example of this could be a landlord refusing to let you their property because they think you are gay.

Discrimination By Association

This happens when your discriminated against because you know, or you’re with someone of a different sexuality.

For example, if a private club refuses you entry or membership because you’re related to someone who is gay.

Who Can I Make a Sexual Orientation Discrimination Claim Against?

You can make a discrimination claim against business, organisation or person who provides a service to the public.

This includes;

• Shops and retail stores
• Restaurants
• Supermarkets
• Gyms and activity centres
• Leisure and travel companies
• Educational institutions like universities
• Public and private transport companies
• Private healthcare providers and the NHS
•  Private clubs and memberships
• Local authorities
• Councils, and even
• Central government

How Long Do I Have to Make a Claim?

The time limit for making a discrimination claim is 6 months less one day from the date your discrimination took place.

This is very short. If you plan to make a claim, you must seek legal advice as soon as possible.

How to Make a Claim

If someone has discriminated against you because of your sexual orientation, you may have grounds to make a claim.

Contact our discrimination solicitors today. To assess if you have a claim, we will;

1. Take the details of your complaint, and
2. Ask for any evidence you have to support your claim

Evidence includes;

• Any documentation – this could be copies of emails, letters, text messages, voice messages or video evidence.
• Witnesses statements – from anyone who saw your discrimination take place.
• Your own account of what happened – discrimination often happens as part of a conversation or a passing comment. If this is the case, we might be able to use your own statement.

If you have a claim, we will explain how the process works, and what then next steps will be.

Why Choose Ringrose Law

At Ringrose Law, we understand how frustrating, upsetting and embarrassing any type of discrimination can be.

Our expert solicitors have represented clients in all kinds of discrimination cases. Some involving single acts, others involving discriminatory policies affecting thousands of people.

If you have suffered discrimination, we can help you. Not only to claim compensation, but also to create lasting change. We can prevent other people from suffering the indignity you have experienced.