Sex discrimination
A Practice note examining sex discrimination in employment under the Equality Act 2010 (EqA 2010). It provides guidance on the key protections against direct and indirect sex discrimination, harassment, and victimisation in the workplace. It discusses the statutory definition of "sex" and the distinction between sex discrimination and equal pay claims. The note explores core concepts such as less favourable treatment, the use of real and hypothetical comparators, and what constitutes a provision, criterion or practice (PCP). It also covers the objective justification defence and lawful exceptions to discrimination, including occupational requirements. It also considers the practical application of these principles to workplace issues such as dress codes, menopause, breastfeeding, and the special treatment afforded to women in connection with pregnancy and maternity.
Already a Practical Law customer? Sign in
Get access to this document with Practical Law
Why Practical Law?
Gain a built-in attorney network
Practical Law’s resources are written and maintained by over 650 dedicated, full-time attorney-editors globally. They’re highly qualified, having practiced at the world’s leading law firms, corporate law departments, and government agencies, so they understand the challenges you face. They dedicate themselves to creating resources to help you navigate the new legal realities, legislative changes, and practice areas impacting your clients or organisation.
See how to leverage the expertise of Practical Law’s attorney-editors to help you practice more efficiently.
Learn more about Practical Law
Expert guidance
650+ full-time, experienced attorney-editors keep you up to date globally
Total resources
118,000+ total resources across 17 practice areas ensure comprehensive coverage
Timely updates
150,000+ hours spent in 2025 maintaining and updating resources