The Equality Act (2010)

The Equality Act (2010) is a law that the UK government created to make sure that the different parts of your identity are respected by public authorities. Specifically, it protects you from: 

• Discrimination – not being treated fairly because of an aspect of your identity 
• Harassment – directly harming someone through your words or actions 
• Victimisation – treating someone badly because they have spoken up about an issue related to their identity 

There are 9 aspects of your identity – aka “protected characteristics” – that the Equality Act recognises. These include:

1. Age  
2. Gender identity – whether you feel like a boy, girl, neither, or anything else 
3. Sexual orientation – you who love and are attracted to 
4. Sex – whether you are legally male, female, or intersex 
5. Being married or having a civil partner 
6. Being pregnant 
7. Race – including the colour of your skin, nationality, and ethnic or national origins 
8. Religion or belief 
9. Disability – visible or invisible 

Top tip from a young person

“There is nothing to be ashamed of for being who you are, and if someone is making you feel that way, it’s your right to call it out.” (Daniela, 18)

If you or someone you know is being bullied online because of any of the identity traits listed above, there are organisations and resources that can help!