Codes of Practice

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.