Every business should strive for a workplace where women are valued, respected and are given the same equal rights and opportunities as the guys. And why wouldn’t they! A diverse workforce that’s inclusive of women fosters creativity and innovation, and that’s just smart business 🙌💼
Thankfully, we have numerous laws and regulations to protect women in the workplace 💪 But navigating these legal requirements can sometimes be a bit daunting! So let’s breakdown the essentials that every business needs to know 💡
📜Equality Act 2010 – Prohibits discrimination, harassment and victimisation based on protected characteristics, including sex ️This means you should not make decisions regarding recruitment, terms and conditions, promotions or dismissals on whether an employee wears a skirt or slacks 💅
📜Equality Pay Act 1970 – Women should get paid what they deserve 💸💁♀️This act prohibits employers from paying men and women differently for performing the same work. You may have heard the term “Equal Pay for Equal Work!”.
🤱Maternity Leave and Pay – Got a bun in the oven? Congratulations! 🤰And don’t worry! Employees are entitled to 52 weeks of maternity leave, and are entitled to maternity pay up to 39 weeks.
👆Additional tip, the Equality Act 2010 also protects for discrimination against mothers to be as well ❤️
👨👩👧👦Shared Parental Leave and Pay – Dad’s can get in on the action too! Parents can share up to 50 weeks of leave and 37 weeks of pay in the first year after birth/adoption.
📜The Domestic Abuse Act 2021 – This act also includes provisions to support employees who are the victims of domestic abuse. Your workplace should have your back by giving you flexible work arrangements or time off for any legal proceedings or medical appointments 🛡️
Knowing your rights and the rights that should be implemented in the workplace is key to empowerment and equality. By understanding and advocating for these laws and regulations, we can ensure every woman has the opportunity to thrive in her career 🌟
