Rachel Collar.
AN EMPLOYMENT tribunal has fined a property management company in London £90,000 after finding the business guilty of sex discrimination.
The case followed a job interview with a candidate at which she was asked about the age of her children. Six days later, her job offer was withdrawn.
The decision was likely linked to the conversation at the interview, the tribunal concluded. She had been asked the question because she was a woman.
Rachel Collar, founder and managing director of Towcester-based independent HR specialist Haus of HR, looks at the case and its messages to employers.
“As business owners, you are aware that the Equality Act 2010 protects your employees from discrimination at work. This protection starts before they even step through the door.
“Discrimination can happen from the very first interaction with a candidate. Business owners must be aware that discrimination claims can be brought by individuals even before their first day on the job.
“Recruitment can be a creative process – think open house events, video introductions or other fun and innovative ways to attract great candidates. There are no set processes required by law. But whatever route you take, it is essential to follow a fair process and stick to objective criteria when assessing a candidate’s suitability for the job.
“The case in London and the eye-watering penalty should be a wake-up call. From the very first moment of contact, an employer should focus solely on the candidate’s ability to do the job.
“Personal questions about protected characteristics, such as marital status or family plans, for example, are an absolute no-go area. Instead, business owners must create objective, clear and specific job descriptions that can be referred back to throughout the recruitment process. Document your decisions and ensure your recruitment process is fair and free from discrimination.”
‘It is fantastic to receive this recognition’
RETAIL entrepreneur Theo Paphitis has given a significant business boost to Northamptonshire-based business Haus of Coaching.
Its founder Rachel Collar, who is also a director of Northamptonshire and Milton Keynes Chambers of Commerce, was among the winners last month in the businessman’s Small Business Sunday initiative, in which he selects six businesses each week and supports them on Twitter and Instagram.
Haus of Coaching is also featured on the #SBS website, a hub exclusive to all Small Business Sunday winners. The initiative now boasts a community of over 4,000 small businesses.
“It is fantastic to receive this recognition from Theo, especially as we are just three years into the business,” Rachel said. “His support will help raise our profile and showcase the work we do to a wider audience.”
Haus of Coaching’s sister business Haus of HR received SBS recognition last year.
Theo, who chairs Ryman Stationery, homeware retailer Robert Dyas and lingerie chain Boux Avenue, is a self-proclaimed champion of small businesses. He said: “We are excited to welcome new members to the #SBS community every week and highlight the importance of supporting small businesses here in the UK.
“My hope is that all #SBS winners become part of a collaborative community where they can share their experiences and successes. The website offers an additional platform to showcase their profiles and I wish Rachel continued success with her business ventures.”
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