Acas have published basic guidance on the Human Rights Act, pointing out that human rights are the basic rights and freedoms that every person in the world should be entitled to and that many of these rights help to protect everyone within the workplace as they have been incorporated into general employment law. The rights are based on core principles such as dignity, fairness, equality, respect and autonomy. The guidance provides information about all of the rights included in the Human Rights Act. It also highlights that some human rights are absolute, i.e. they can never be altered or removed by governments in any circumstances, while some are qualified rights, where any action taken requires a legitimate aim and a balance needs to be applied between the rights of the person, and the needs of the wider community or interest of the country. 

Content Note

The aim is to provide summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. In particular, where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out full details of all the facts, the legal arguments presented by the parties and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Click on the links provided to access full details. If no link is provided contact us for further information. Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, SM&B cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.