BONALLACK & BISHOP - SALISBURY LAW FIRM - PRESS RELEASE

Last quarter 2005 

New Legislation affecting Employers

The Civil Partnership Act 2004 and parts of the Disability discrimination Act 2005 have now come into force.

A new legal relationship of “civil partnership” will allow same sex couples to register as civil partners to enjoy similar rights as married couples. This has particular relevance to access to employment and pension benefit and recognition for immigration, nationality and tax treatment purposes.

Employers need to review their policies and procedures to ensure they do not discriminate against such employees and risk an employment tribunal claim.

Equally important is the Disability Discrimination Act 2005 which now removes the requirement for a mental illness to be clinically well recognised before it can constitute a mental impairment. It also gives greater protection to employees with cancer, HIV or multiple sclerosis. Employers must be aware that employees are now protected from the point of diagnosis.

For further information please contact employment solicitor Nigel Mills of Salisbury Lawyers, Bonallack and Bishop, on 01722 422300.