See the Answer is the explanation
Explanation:
Overall explanation
Below you will find how you can plan and draft the essay. Remember this is an example of one way you could approach the question. At Level 6 the questions are much more open so your response may be completely different and that's okay.
Essay Plan
Introduction - discrimination undermines principles of fairness, equality and justice Section 1: Employees should: use internal reportinc mechanisms, seek legal advice, talk to union, use ADR, keep records Section 2: Council's risks: legal, reputational, productivity, loss of talented staff, regulatory scrutiny Conclusion: Council needs to promptly address these issues Example Essay Discrimination in the workplace is a grave issue that undermines the principles of fairness, equality, and justice. In this essay, we will discuss how employees at Fakeborough City Council can deal with discrimination at work and the risks currently faced by the council as a result of these discriminatory practices.
Dealing with Discrimination at Work:
Internal Reporting Mechanisms: Employees should utilize internal reporting mechanisms established by Fakeborough City Council to address discrimination issues. These mechanisms typically include channels for lodging complaints, such as HR departments or designated ombudsman officers. There may also be a whistleblowing channel which would inform senior leaders of issues such as the pay gap between male and female workers. By reporting incidents, employees can initiate formal investigations into these types of discriminatory practices.
Seek Legal Advice: If internal mechanisms do not yield satisfactory results or if employees fear retaliation, seeking legal advice from employment law specialists is a viable option. Legal professionals can provide guidance on pursuing legal remedies, such as filing discrimination claims with employment tribunals or courts. One way to do this may be for the employees at Fakeborough Council to speak to their trade unions or workers' councils, which could help individuals collectively address discrimination concerns. These representatives can negotiate with the council on behalf of affected employees and advocate for fair and equal treatment.
Document Incidents: Employees should keep detailed records of discriminatory incidents, including dates, times, locations, witnesses, and any relevant communication or documentation. These records can serve as valuable evidence in any legal proceedings or internal investigations.
Seek Mediation or Conciliation: Mediation or conciliation services can be explored as alternative dispute resolution methods. These processes aim to facilitate constructive dialogue between employees and the council to resolve discrimination issues amicably.
Risks Faced by Fakeborough City Council:
Legal Consequences: Fakeborough City Council is at risk of facing legal consequences if discrimination allegations are substantiated. If they are found to have paid male workers more than female workers, this would be in violation of the Equalities Act 2010. Consequences of a breach of this legislation may involve fines and compensation payments to affected employees.
Reputational Damage: Discrimination revelations can lead to significant reputational damage for the council. Negative media coverage and public backlash can erode public trust and support, making it challenging to attract and retain talent or secure funding for essential projects. As this is a public sector organisation, Fakeborough do not need to worry about loss to profits, as a private company would in a similar situation, however, damage to reputation could have other financial impacts such as losing out on opportunities. For example losing the opportunity to host events such as sporting events in the city because the event organisers don't want to be associated with the Council, or losing funding from central government.
Employee Morale and Productivity: Discrimination negatively impacts employee morale and productivity. Employees may disengage from their work, leading to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and high turnover rates, which can further strain the council's resources. This is particularly true when opportunities to advance are not equal. For example if Fakeborough council are only promoting white employees, then employees of other ethnicities will be disincentivised from working hard as they know that their work will not be compensated or rewarded.
Regulatory Scrutiny: Regulatory bodies, including the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) in the UK, may investigate Fakeborough City Council's employment practices if discrimination allegations arise. This can result in further legal obligations and potential penalties.
Loss of Talent: Discriminatory practices can drive away talented employees who seek workplaces with fair and inclusive cultures. This can result in a loss of valuable human capital, hindering the council's ability to deliver services effectively.
In conclusion, addressing discriminatory labour practices at Fakeborough City Council requires employees to use internal reporting mechanisms, seek legal advice, engage with employee representatives, document incidents, and explore mediation or conciliation. The council faces significant risks, including legal consequences, reputational damage, diminished employee morale and productivity, regulatory scrutiny, and the loss of talent. It is in the council's best interest to promptly address and rectify discriminatory practices to foster a fair, inclusive, and productive work environment while mitigating these risks.