The Equality Act 2010 sets out nine “protected characteristics”. These are grounds upon which it is unlawful to discriminate against those who fall within the scope of the discrimination legislation. The protected characteristics are: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation. Discrimination is generally lawful; discrimination because of a protected characteristic is unlawful. An employer can discriminate against one candidate in a job interview in favour of who they perceive to be a better candidate. It only becomes unlawful if the basis of their choice is an irrelevant factor such as sex, race or another protected characteristic.
