When should I seek employment advice as a woman at work?

You should seek employment advice if you experience bullying, harassment, unfair treatment, pay inequality, discrimination, disciplinary action or redundancy concerns, or if you simply feel unsure about your rights and options at work.

What employment rights do women have in the UK workplace?

Women are protected by laws such as the Equality Act 2010 and the Employment Rights Act 1996. These cover equal pay, protection from discrimination, maternity rights, health and safety, and fair treatment in processes like discipline, redundancy and dismissal.

What should I do if I am being bullied or harassed at work?

Keep a record of what is happening, check your employer's policies, and seek advice as early as possible. You may be able to raise an informal concern, submit a formal grievance or get support from HR, a trade union or an employment adviser to protect your position.

What is a compromise agreement and how can I get help?

A compromise agreement, also called a settlement agreement, is a legal document that sets out the terms on which you leave your employer and usually waives your right to bring claims. It is important to get independent advice so you understand your rights, the wording and whether the offer is fair.

How does Women of Our Time support women with employment issues?

Women of Our Time offers clear employment advice, support with grievances and disciplinary processes, guidance on compromise agreements and access to trusted legal and HR partners so women can understand their rights and make informed decisions about their situation.

Navigating Employment Advice for Women: How We Can Help Women Who Are Looking for Guidance

Women of our Time
May 12
5 min read

Updated: 6 days ago

Two hands hold icons, a red question mark and a glowing light bulb, around "Women of Our Time" text in bold letters with an oval border.

Employment Advice for Women:

As women in the workplace, it’s not uncommon to find ourselves in situations where we need expert employment advice but don’t know where to turn. Whether you're facing a workplace issue, a potential legal challenge, or just need clarity on your rights, it can feel overwhelming—especially when legal services may seem out of reach financially, and online searches often lead to more confusion than answers.

At the Women at Work Support Hub, we understand these challenges, and we are here to provide the guidance and support you need. Our mission is to empower you with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions, and we are committed to helping women navigate the complexities of employment law in a way that feels clear, accessible, and supportive.

Employment Rights for Women at Work:

Women in the workplace have several legal rights designed to protect them. These rights are safeguarded by various laws, including the Equality Act 2010, the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, and the Employment Rights Act 1996, to name a few. These laws cover a broad spectrum of employment issues, from equal pay to maternity rights and mental health support, and much more. Here are just a few of the critical areas:

Equal Pay and Pay Transparency:

Women are entitled to equal pay for equal work. Gender-based discrimination in pay is illegal under the Equality Act 2010, yet many women still face challenges around pay discrepancies or lack of transparency in pay structures.

If you suspect you are being underpaid or discriminated against based on gender, it's crucial to understand your rights and how to challenge this. Knowing what you're entitled to and how to advocate for fair pay is key to ensuring that you're treated equally in the workplace.

Dealing with Bullying and Harassment:

Workplace bullying, sexual harassment, and other forms of discrimination can significantly impact a woman’s professional life. Subtle sexism, microaggressions, and misogyny can create a toxic work environment, leaving women feeling isolated, vulnerable, and unsure of where to turn for help.

The Equality Act 2010 protects employees from harassment and bullying based on characteristics such as sex, race, and disability. It’s essential to understand your rights in these situations and how to handle them effectively. If you are facing these issues, it’s important to know how to report it, document the behaviour, and seek support to address the situation appropriately.

Mental Health and Stress at Work:

Mental health is an important aspect of overall well-being, and employers have a legal responsibility under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 to support employees with mental health issues. This includes providing reasonable adjustments where necessary and ensuring that employees are not discriminated against because of their mental health.

The stresses of work, coupled with personal challenges, can take a toll on mental health. If you're experiencing stress, anxiety, or depression due to your job, it's vital to know your rights to request accommodations or support. Understanding mental health support within the workplace can make a significant difference to your overall well-being and performance.

Maternity Rights:

Under the Employment Rights Act 1996, women have the right to maternity leave, maternity pay, and job protection during pregnancy and after childbirth. These rights ensure that women are not unfairly treated or dismissed due to pregnancy or maternity. However, many women still encounter challenges, such as discrimination or lack of support during maternity leave. It's important to know your rights, how to access maternity benefits, and how to address any issues that may arise during this time.

Discrimination and Unfair Treatment:

Women may face various forms of discrimination in the workplace, such as being passed over for promotions, facing bias in recruitment, or experiencing unfair treatment based on gender, race, or other protected characteristics. The Equality Act 2010 offers protection against discrimination in the workplace, and if you are facing such treatment, it’s essential to understand your rights and the steps you can take to challenge it.

In addition to these, women may encounter issues related to unjustified disciplinary actions, unfair dismissal, or violations of workplace policies. Many women may not fully understand their rights in these areas, which is why having access to expert advice is so important.

Poor Practices in Some Organisations:

Unfortunately, not all organisations follow the law, or their internal policies, when it comes to protecting the rights of their employees—particularly women. Some organisations may lack awareness or may not prioritise enforcing company policies that are designed to prevent discrimination, bullying, or ensure equal pay.

In these situations, women may feel helpless, unsure of how to proceed, or even fear retaliation for speaking up. This is where many women feel lost—uncertain about who to turn to for support and whether they can trust the systems in place to protect them.

What Do You Do If You Don’t Know Where to Turn?

The good news is that you don’t have to navigate these challenges alone. If you’re unsure of where to turn or can’t afford the expensive services of an employment lawyer, there are other resources and support systems available to you.

At Women at Work Support Hub, we provide expert advice, guidance, and resources to women who are facing employment challenges. Whether you need help understanding your rights, dealing with workplace discrimination, or negotiating a compromise agreement, we are here to support you.

How We Can Help?

Employment Advice: If you're unsure of your rights or facing workplace issues, we can provide clear, accessible advice about the law and how it applies to your situation. We break down the legal jargon into simple terms so you can make informed decisions without feeling overwhelmed.
Compromise Agreements: If you’ve been offered a compromise agreement, we can help you understand what this means, how to negotiate better terms, and whether it’s in your best interest to accept. Compromise agreements are complex legal documents, and having the right support can make all the difference.
Support with Grievances: If you’re experiencing unfair treatment, harassment, or discrimination, we can guide you through the grievance process. We’ll help you understand your options, ensure you follow the correct procedures, and provide support throughout the process.
Support with Disciplinary Actions: If you’re facing disciplinary action at work, it’s essential to understand your rights and how to respond. We can help you navigate the disciplinary process, provide advice on how to handle the situation, and support you in protecting your professional reputation.
Affiliated Expert Partners: In addition to our own in-house experts, we have a network of trusted, affiliated partners, including experienced employment lawyers and HR professionals, who can offer specialised legal advice at an affordable cost. We work closely with them to ensure you receive the best possible support tailored to your unique situation.

Why Turn to Us?

Many women feel powerless in the face of workplace issues, especially when they don’t have the financial resources for legal support or the time to navigate endless online searches for answers. We bridge that gap by offering easy-to-understand, comprehensive advice and connecting you with the right resources.

We know that the emotional toll of navigating workplace challenges—whether it’s harassment, unfair pay, or feeling unsupported—can be significant. Our approach focuses on empowering you with the knowledge and tools to address these issues effectively. We help you regain your confidence, protect your rights, and take control of your professional life.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you're feeling lost or uncertain about your workplace rights, or you simply need guidance on a specific issue, the Women at Work Support Hub is here to help. We are committed to supporting you through every stage of your career, empowering you to make informed decisions and advocate for yourself confidently.

Explore our services today to find out how we can support you in navigating employment challenges and achieving a fair, healthy, and fulfilling work life.