What is Discrimination?

View

Discrimination is the unfair or prejudicial treatment of people or groups based on their protected characteristics. These protected characteristics are shown in the image below.

This is unlawful under the Equality Act 2010. Part 3 of the Act prohibits discrimination when providing services to the public, and Part 7 prohibits certain clubs and associations from discriminating against members, guests, or applicants. Section 195 of the Act also contains rules about participation in competitive sports based on sex and age.

The Protected Characteristics under The Equality Act 2010.

Image caption: The recognised and legally protected characteristics.

In the next activity, you'll be given some scenarios of potential discrimination that's taken place in sport. Can you correctly recognise which protected characteristic is being targeted?

Last modified: Tuesday, 11 August 2026, 9:17 AM