Codes of Practice

Published: 19 February 2019

Last updated: 19 February 2019

What countries does this apply to?

  • England
  • Scotland
  • Wales

We have updated the Code of Practice for services, public functions and associations. We are running a consultation to gather your feedback on our updates.

To read the updated version, or give feedback, go to our code of practice consultation page

Our Codes of Practice cover what the Equality Act 2010 means in precise and technical terms. They are the authoritative source of guidance for anyone who wants a rigorous analysis of the legislation's detail. 

Three Codes of Practice became law on 6 April 2011

The Codes of Practice provide detailed explanations of the provisions in the Equality Act and apply the legal concepts to everyday situations. This will assist courts and tribunals when interpreting the law and help lawyers, advisers, trades union representatives, human resources departments and others who need to apply the law.

The Codes of Practice can be used in evidence in legal proceedings brought under the Equality Act. Courts and tribunals must take into account any parts of the Codes that appears relevant to questions arising in proceedings.

Employment

Courts and tribunals must take this Code of Practice into account in cases involving discrimination in employment and work-related activities.

People with the protected characteristics set out in the Equality Act 2010 should not be discriminated against:

  • in employment
  • when seeking employment
  • when engaged in occupations or activities related to work

Read the full Code of Practice on Employment.

Equal pay

Courts and tribunals must take relevant parts of this Code of Practice into account when considering an equal pay claim. 

As set out in the Equality Act 2010, men and women in the same employment performing equal work must receive equal pay, unless any difference in pay can be justified.

Read the full Code of Practice on equal pay.

Services, public functions and associations

Courts and tribunals must take this Code of Practice into account in cases involving discrimination in:

  • services
  • public authorities carrying out public functions
  • membership associations

People with the protected characteristics set out in the Act should not be discriminated against when using any service provided publicly or privately, whether that service is for payment or not.

Read the full Code of Practice on services, public functions and associations.

Page updates

Legal professionals

Legal representatives can call the Legal Helpline (Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm).

England: 0161 829 8190

Wales: 029 2044 7790 

The Legal Helpline can also be contacted at regulatory.request@equalityhumanrights.com

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0161 829 8190