What are Protected Characteristics?

Set out in The Equality Act, which came into force on 1 October 2010, protected characteristics were defined to protect employees from discrimination. These apply to all elements of HR, including recruitment adverts, contracts and conduct.

  • Age
  • Disability
  • Gender reassignment
  • Marriage and civil partnership
  • Pregnancy and maternity
  • Race
  • Religion and belief
  • Sex
  • Sexual orientation

Let us know if you would like a chat and advice on protected characteristics.