Who is protected under the Equality Act 2010?

The EA 2010 protects workers, not just employees. It covers agency workers and sub-contracted workers, and self-employed workers can also be covered in some cases. It also covers job applicants, and former employees can take a claim for victimisation if a previous employer discriminates against them. Although the Act covers people working in Great Britain, those occasionally working abroad may be able to make a discrimination claim.

However, charities, training and acts done for the purpose of safeguarding national security are exempt from the Act in some circumstances, and those who agree to work illegally risk being left unprotected. This is explained in more detail in the LRD Booklet, Law at Work, which is updated every year (www.lrdpublications.org.uk/publications.php?pub=BK&iss=1664)