I'm facing racism or harassment at work

You're protected from harassment and discrimination. Employers must also take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment, including by people you support and their families.

Open the interactive version

The interactive version is available in 6 languages and Easy Read. It includes a ready-made letter you can fill in.

Your rights

• Protection from harassment linked to race, sex, religion, disability, sexual orientation, age or other protected characteristics.
• Your employer must take reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment, including by third parties.
• To raise a grievance and have it properly investigated.
• Not to be punished for complaining (victimisation is unlawful).
• To be moved away from a client who abuses you, if it's reasonable to do so.

What to do next

1. Write down what was said or done, when, and who saw it.
2. Report it to your manager, or to HR if your manager is involved.
3. Use the grievance letter on this page if it isn't dealt with.
4. Tribunal time limits are short (usually three months less one day), so get advice early from Acas or your union.

Say this

“I'm raising a formal grievance about harassment, and I'd like to know what steps will be taken to protect me.”

The law behind it (England)

• Equality Act 2010s.26 harassment, s.27 victimisation
• Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act 2023duty to prevent sexual harassment
• Acas Code of Practice on Disciplinary and Grievance Proceduresfair grievance process

Elsewhere in the UK

Scotland

The Equality Act 2010 applies in Scotland.

Wales

The Equality Act 2010 applies in Wales.

Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland has separate equality laws. Contact the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland.

Last reviewed: November 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. How we check our information.