LRD guides and handbook July 2013

Representing older workers - a guide for trade union negotiators

Chapter 2

Age discrimination awareness training

It is good practice for all organisations to have an Equality Policy and to train all employees and update them on a regular basis. All employees should be aware of the age discrimination policy. Acas says that all employees should understand:

• what the terms “discrimination” and “harassment” mean;

• why discrimination and harassment are hurtful, unlawful and totally unacceptable; and

• what to do if they witness it or are subjected to it.

All those who make decisions that affect others should receive age discrimination awareness training — not just those who recruit and select; but also to those involved in day-to-day decisions about work allocation and performance appraisal for example.

Supervisors and managers should also have training in recognising and dealing with bullying and harassment.