Providing an account to a person suspecting discrimination

Employer's obligation to provide an account

If an individual suspects that they have been discriminated against in working life, the employer is to give without delay, on the employee's request, a written account of the reasons for their actions. In this way the employee can evaluate whether there is reason to continue pursuing their case and possibly refer it to a court of law. The giving of such an account helps to prevent unnecessary legal actions.

If the matter relates to a recruitment situation, the account must include the grounds for selection, the education, work experience and other experience of the chosen candidate, and any other factors influencing their selection. When there is cause to suspect pay discrimination, the employee has to be given information of the grounds for their pay and other necessary information concerning the employee.

Educational institution's obligation to provide an account

If a student suspects that they have been discriminated against at an educational institution in a manner referred to in the Equality Act, the educational institution or other organisation providing education and training is to give without delay, on the student's request, a written account of their actions. Information on anyone's state of health or other personal circumstances may not be entered in the account without the person’s consent.