Discrimination

Discrimination is the unfair treatment of a person or group on the basis of prejudice. It can include bullying, victimisation and harassment.

There are different types of discrimination but they all have one thing in common; they are never the fault of the person being discriminated against.

Homophobia is hatred, irrational fear or a negative attitude towards gay lesbian and bisexual people. It can involve calling someone names, making homophobic jokes, verbal and physical attacks or acting in a way that discriminates. It's often a sign that a person is ignorant of what being gay, lesbian or bisexual means or they may be a bit frightened of it, because they don't understand it and can't relate to it.

Sexism is negative attitudes or feelings towards someone because of their sex, which means if they are a boy or a girl, man or woman. It can include negative jokes and comments, verbal and physical attacks.

Tranphobia is intolerance towards someone because of their gender identity. This means acting in a negative way towards transexuality and transsexual or transgendered people.

If any of these things is happening or has happened to you, you can call Ask Brook on 0808 802 1234 for help and advice.

It’s important to know that the law protects you from discrimination in education, employment or services due to your age, gender, race, religion or beliefs, disability, sexual or gender orientation, because you are pregnant or have just had a baby, or because you are married or in a civil partnership.

To find out how the law protects and what to do if you have been discriminated against contact Directgov