Whether you’re applying for a job, volunteering, starting an apprenticeship, attending university, or moving into employment, it’s important to understand your rights.
Knowing your rights can help you:
- Feel more confident
- Understand what support is available
- Recognise unfair treatment
- Access reasonable adjustments if you need them
- Make informed decisions about work and education
You do not need to know everything about employment law. This page is designed to give you a simple introduction and show you where to find further support.
In the UK, there are laws that help protect people from unfair treatment in workplaces, education settings, and recruitment processes.
This means employers and organisations should not treat someone unfairly because of characteristics such as:
- Age
- Disability
- Race or ethnicity
- Religion or belief
- Sex
- Sexual orientation
- Gender reassignment
- Pregnancy or maternity
- Marriage or civil partnership
Everyone should have the opportunity to access education, training, volunteering, and employment fairly.
Your Rights When Applying for Jobs
When applying for jobs, employers should:
- Treat applicants fairly
- Focus on skills, experience, and suitability for the role
- Make recruitment processes accessible
- Avoid discrimination
You should not feel pressured to share personal information that is not relevant to the role.
If you have a disability, health condition, learning difficulty, or additional support need, you may be able to request support during the application or interview process.
What Are Reasonable Adjustments?
A reasonable adjustment is a change that helps remove barriers during recruitment, education, volunteering, or employment.
Examples might include:
- Extra time during assessments
- Interview questions provided in advance
- Alternative formats such as large print
- Online or telephone interviews
- Assistive technology
- A quieter interview space
- Flexible working arrangements
Reasonable adjustments are designed to help create a fair and accessible experience.
Disability and Long-Term Health Conditions
You do not need to face challenges alone.
If you have:
- A physical disability
- A sensory impairment
- A mental health condition
- A neurodivergent difference such as ADHD, autism, or dyslexia
- A long-term health condition
you may be entitled to support during recruitment, employment, education, or training.
Many employers are keen to support staff and learners to succeed.
Access to Work
If you are in paid employment or about to start work, the government’s Access to Work scheme may be able to provide support.
Depending on your circumstances, this could include:
- Specialist equipment
- Travel support
- Mental health support
- Communication support
- Workplace adjustments
Access to Work is designed to help disabled people and those with health conditions start work and stay in work successfully.
More information about Access to Work here: Access to Work | Disability Rights UK
Understanding Workplace Rights
When you begin employment, you have rights relating to:
- Pay
- Working hours
- Holiday entitlement
- Health and safety
- Equality and discrimination
- Flexible working requests
- Parental leave
Your rights may vary depending on your contract and circumstances, so it is always helpful to seek advice if you’re unsure.
Your Rights as a Volunteer
Volunteers may not have the same legal rights as employees, but organisations still have responsibilities.
You should expect:
- Respect and dignity
- A safe environment
- Appropriate support and supervision
- Clear information about your role
- Equal opportunities
Good volunteering organisations should help you feel valued and included.
Where Can I Get Advice?
If you’re unsure about your rights, there are organisations that can help.
Citizens Advice
Citizens Advice provides free, confidential, and independent advice on issues including:
- Employment rights
- Benefits
- Debt and money advice
- Housing
- Consumer issues
- Discrimination
Website: www.citizensadvice.org.uk
Citizens Advice is often one of the best places to start if you are unsure about your rights or need practical guidance.
ACAS
ACAS provides information and advice about workplace rights and employment issues.
Website: www.acas.org.uk
GOV.UK
The Government website contains information about employment rights, disability support, apprenticeships, and Access to Work.
Website: www.gov.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I think I’ve been treated unfairly?
- Try to keep a record of what happened and seek advice as soon as possible. Citizens Advice or ACAS may be able to help you understand your options.
Can I ask for adjustments during an interview?
- Yes. If you need adjustments to help you take part fully in the interview process, you can ask the employer before the interview takes place.
Do I have to tell an employer about my disability?
- This is a personal choice. However, sharing information may help employers provide support and reasonable adjustments if needed.
Can I still get support if I don’t have a formal diagnosis?
- In some situations, support may still be available. It is worth discussing your circumstances with the organisation or seeking advice.
What if English is not my first language?
- You still have the same rights as everyone else. If you need support understanding information or processes, ask what assistance is available.
Further Support
If you would like guidance on:
- Employment rights
- Further support services
- Accessing reasonable adjustments
- Progression into work or study
- Finding trustworthy information
you can contact:
Email: robyn.dawes@fircroft.ac.uk
Phone: 07984 444750
