Discrimination at work

rdisc

I have already applied now for the course in the correct way. However, the person approving the course wanted me to gain approval from local management. This isn't the correct way.

But how did my colleague get approved, and just after I raised getting a course?

rdisc

There may be a correct way on paper, however in practice this isn't used for the particular course i am applying for.

rdisc

I appreciate some may think there is no intent, however I do interpret it as racial discrimination.

Tiddlywinks

People get passed over every day for promotions, courses, leave dates etc - maybe because of inept management, favouritism, seniority or just the plain fact that someone else is more qualified, has a better attitude, happens to be in the right place etc etc etc

The list is endless - so why jump to the conclusion that it's your race that is the major factor? Particularly when you haven't yet fully established the facts.

Tiddlywinks

rdisc wrote: »

I appreciate some may think there is no intent, however I do interpret it as racial discrimination.

But WHY? There must be a reason behind that assumption - other than the fact that you are of a different ethnicity / race etc.

rdisc

Point taken thanks, but as it stands that's how it looks to me.

One of the managers who got involved jumped to the conclusion a mistake had been made, before establishing the facts, which annoyed me.

I am in the process of raising another grievance and will let any subsequent investigation hopefully establish the reason.

rdisc

Yes, the reason is that all those who have gotten this course and all managers are a different colour than me.

TBagpuss

I would not dismiss the possibility of discrimination, but I think you need to be a little clearer.Have you asked the colleague who is in the same role as you, and who did get on the course, what steps he took to apply? It may be that he can identify a step you've missed, and if you identify that you followed exactly the same procedure as he did you my have a stronger argument if it does come to a discrimination claim.

Also consider whether there are differences *other* than race between you and him - you have the same role, but has he been there longer, got better (or worse) appraisals than you, different qualifications etc?

Who, specifically, do you feel is discriminating? If your manager wasn't involved, who do you think is making that decision? Is it possible that your colleague simply found a more effective way of by-passing an inept manager?

It may also be worth setting out in writing to HR the steps you have taken, the advice/information you have been given so far and ask them to clarify *exactly* what steps you need to take to make the application, including stating that while you were told that local authorisation was required, you have since learned that your local manager did not give (and was not asked for) approval for the last application, so ask them whether there is any other person who can provide authority.

If you do all of that, then if there is discrimination, you will have stronger evidence, and if there isn't, you may be able to get the course, which is presumably what you ideally want.

I would suggest in particular that you aim to make it as easy as possible for your manager - if you can go to him and say "here's the form, can you sign it now" it's more likely to get done.

It may also be worth you calling the ACAS helpline to ask about whether there are other steps you can take, and what you would need to be able to show in order to claim discrimination.

swingaloo

rdisc wrote: »

Yes, the reason is that all those who have gotten this course and all managers are a different colour than me.

Equally, could it not be that you are being discriminated against because they don't think you are a team player/have not shown the same enthusiasm as others/are not producing the results others are/or simply because your face doesn't fit as happens where I work.


There is also the possibility that your attitude at work may go against you or simply that they do not really think that they would benefit from you taking the course. It may be that there are a restricted number of courses available and they think other applicants may be more suited.


You need to speak to your manager and the HR dept. Simply claiming its a race thing is not wise.

rdisc

Thanks for the long reply. Much appreciated.

1. I have not spoken to the person, as I do not know them very well. But I can assure you, I have followed the correct process to apply. Problem is partly due to not being supported and given correct information how to apply in the first place.

2. There is little difference between him and I. He has worked in the same role for a similar time as me, however has been in the organisation less. I would be surprised if he had better appraisals and sure he hasn't. Only shortly before he got the course he was on light/restricted duties.

3. I feel the manager who discriminated against me is the one I emailed to ask about applying for a course. This is the same manager who shortly afterwards, approved my colleagues application for a course. I also believe this is indirect discrimination as the organisation (managers and HR) are not following procedure correctly, which in my case has discriminated against me.

4. Thanks. Yes, I have emailed HR in order to clarify who authorises courses locally, however have had no reply from the representative.

5. Yes I would like the course, but this goes much deeper for everyone. We should all have an equal opportunity to apply for a course and then the application process should be transparent and fair.

6. My manager has said he doesn't know how to get a course. However, according to the official process, he actually isn't part of the process.

Going to an Employment Tribunal is obviously a big step, but some employers just don't want to come in line with current employment responsibilities. I need to consider the 3 month rule with this.