Guernsey people asked how to prevent age discrimination

Wednesday, 14 August 2024 10:20

The first phase of Guernsey's anti discrimination law came into effect in October 2023.

Social Security says it plans to have a policy letter that outlaws age discrimination before the Assembly ahead of the next election.

Not discriminating against someone because of their age is the second phase of Guernsey's anti discrimination legislation.

The first came into force nearly one year ago to prevent someone being disadvantaged because of their race, disability, carer status, sexual orientation and religion or belief.

Social Security (ESS) is carrying out a consultation with local employers, workers, States committees, the charity sector, education and the hospitality industry.

This runs until the end of September and ESS also wants people to contribute their views on how to avoid discrimination, harassment or victimisation because of age.

Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez, the vice-president of Social Security, says peoples' views are important:

“Specific policy considerations are required to make sure that appropriate and practical protections are in place, while ensuring that legislation only prohibits genuinely harmful treatment. It is important that we obtain a wide range of views from across the community.

We are hopeful that stakeholders will engage with this process and are grateful for their time and input.”

ESS plans to have a policy letter ready for debate before June 2025, the date of the next election.