We have to do this online course in work on Diversity! To be honest, some of what they say on there seems out of touch…but anyway, I thought I’d do the course like my colleagues.
So, I’m on the first module and get to about the 8th page out of 13 and there’s this bit that goes on to say you’re protected by employment law if someone discriminates about your age, sexual orientation, colour, religion etc.
But then the next paragraph went on to say that you were not protected if the issue was to do with weight or physical appearance!! WHAT!!??
Basically it says:
*"Bullying and harassment at work are unlawful under equality legislation if they constitute discrimination in employment on grounds of age, colour, disability, ethnic or national origin, gender, being married, nationality, race, religion or belief or sexual orientation.
If the victim is bullied because of other factors, such as their weight or physical appearance, they cannot take action under employment law but they should still seek the support of their line manager.
They may be protected under Health and Safety at Work legislation and under the implied general duty of care of employers."*
So, you have some protection as a fatty like me, but not the same level as everyone else. Although Dave mentioned my weight could come under the disability protection as I have no control over it cos of the Lipoedema…but I ain’t registered as disabled so I’m stuffed still.
Suffice to say I’ve not carried on with the course which needs to be done by the end of March so I’ll get into trouble with it. But I’m gonna stand my ground with this one and say that I’ll complete it when the law it changed to protect the likes of people like me! Balls to em!!