Disability Information UKPlain-language information, rights and support

Discrimination at work

An overview of what disability discrimination can look like at work and the steps and time limits for raising it.

Guidance, not legal advice. This page summarises official UK sources listed below. What applies to you depends on your circumstances and nation.

Last reviewed
1 August 2026
Next review due
1 February 2027

Types of discrimination

  • Direct discrimination: being treated worse because of disability
  • Indirect discrimination: a policy that disadvantages disabled workers generally
  • Discrimination arising from disability: being treated unfavourably because of something connected to your disability, such as disability-related sickness absence
  • Failure to make reasonable adjustments
  • Harassment and victimisation

Time limits

In Great Britain, most employment tribunal claims must usually be started within three months less one day of the discrimination, and you must first contact Acas for early conciliation. Northern Ireland has its own industrial tribunal system with broadly similar short time limits.

Because time limits are strict and can be extended only in limited circumstances, get advice as early as possible.

Checklist

  • Write down what happened, when, and who was involved, as soon as you can
  • Raise a grievance with your employer using their internal procedure
  • Contact Acas for early conciliation before submitting a tribunal claim
  • Get advice from a union, Citizens Advice or a solicitor about your specific circumstances

Where to get help