Do you know your rights? At Heriot-Watt Student Union, we’re here to help you navigate student life with confidence. Whether you’re studying, working, renting a flat, or just living your day-to-day life, you have rights that protect you and we’ve created handy booklets to make sure you know exactly what they are.
Know Your Rights
Do you know your rights? At Heriot-Watt Student Union, we’re here to help you navigate student life with confidence. Whether you’re studying, working, renting a flat, or just living your day-to-day life, you have rights that protect you and we’ve created handy booklets to make sure you know exactly what they are.
University is an exciting time, but it can also feel overwhelming. From housing contracts to part-time jobs, from international visas to academic policies, there’s a lot to figure out. By knowing where you stand, you’ll feel more informed, more confident, and more empowered to make the most of your time here.
Why it matters
Knowing your rights means you can stand up for yourself and live with confidence. It also means you’ll know where to turn if something feels unfair. Whether it’s your employer, landlord, university, or even the government, there are systems in place to protect you—and we’re here to help you access them.
If you ever feel unsure, don’t be afraid to reach out to us at the Union. Our Advice Hub team can guide you through your options, point you in the right direction, and support you in taking the next step.
💡 Remember: Your rights aren’t just about protection, they’re about empowerment. The more you know, the more you can shape your student experience for the better.
Keep reading to find out more about your rights.
1. Education Rights
Digital Brochure - Know Your Education Rights
CONSUMER RIGHTS
As a student, you’re protected by the Consumer Rights Act 2015. Universities are legally required to treat students fairly as consumers of education.
Learn more here: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2015/15/contents
You must receive clear, accurate information about your course before you enrol—this includes modules, contact hours, assessments, and costs.
Once enrolled, this information becomes part of your contract with the university.
Universities cannot make major changes (e.g. removing modules, increasing fees) without:
- A valid reason.
- Clear communication.
- Your agreement or a fair exit option.
If your course is disrupted (e.g. strikes, cancellations), you may be entitled to:
- A repeat of the service.
- A partial refund or compensation.
- Reasonable adjustments
You have the right to complain or withdraw if the university doesn’t meet its obligations.
EQUALITY AND ADJUSTMENTS
Under the Equality Act 2010, universities must make reasonable adjustments for students with: Physical disabilities, Mental health conditions and or Learning differences.
You are protected from discrimination based on:
- Disability (including mental health and neurodivergence)
- Race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, and more.
You also have the right to tailored and confidential support. Reasonable adjustments might include:
- Extra time in exams or coursework.
- Lecture recordings or note-taking support.
- Assistive technology. (e.g. screen readers, dictation tools)
- Quiet or separate exam rooms.
If you’re Not Given the Adjustments You Need, you have the right to challenge this. Here’s how:
- Raise the issue with your School or Disability Service.
- Speak to your Class Rep or Student Union.
- Submit a formal complaint if the issue isn’t resolved.
- Escalate to the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman if needed.
Learn more here: https://www.spso.org.uk/
ACADEMIC FREEDOM
Academic freedom protects your right to:
You cannot be penalised for expressing academic views in coursework, research, or discussion—unless it breaches university conduct policies (e.g. hate speech or harassment).
If you feel your academic freedom is being restricted, speak to your Class Rep, Student Union, or submit a formal complaint.
FEES, COSTS AND REFUNDS
Students have the right to clear and upfront information about tuition fees, Payment schedules and Additional costs
Under consumer law, Universities must:
- Be transparent about what you’re paying for.
- Offer fair refund policies if you withdraw or if services aren’t delivered.
- Provide support if you fall behind on payments.
If you believe you’ve been overcharged or misled:
- Seek advice from the Student Union or Advice Hub.
- Submit a formal complaint if needed.
MITIGATING CIRCUMSTANCES
Life can be complicated at times. If illness, bereavement or personal crisis affects your studies, you can apply for mitigating circumstances.
Submit the form through the student self-service homepage. You will need to provide evidence, for example, a medical note for the total time you will be affected by the circumstance. You can self-certify if you are aware that very strict deadlines and unique situations apply, so make sure you act quickly and check policy. If you miss a deadline, you will have to provide very clear evidence as to why you were unable to apply earlier.
APPEALS & COMPLAINTS
If you believe something went wrong with your academic result, like a procedural error or when mitigating circumstances were not considered. The advice hub is here to support you in making your appeal. Keep in mind ,you can’t appeal just because you disagree with your grade.
You need to submit it within 10 working days.
If something goes wrong—poor teaching, unfair treatment, or lack of support—you can:
- Try informal resolution.
- Submit a formal complaint online.
- Request a Stage 2 review.
Universities must have a clear, fair, and accessible complaints process. If unresolved, you can speak to the Student Union for next steps.
FAIR ASSESSMENT
You have the right to be assessed in a way that is:
- Transparent – You must be told how your work will be marked, what criteria apply, and how feedback will be given.
- Consistent – All students should be assessed using the same standards.
- Free from bias – Your background, identity, or personal circumstances must not affect your grade.
If you believe your assessment was unfair, you can:
- Request feedback.
- Appeal the result.
- Seek support from your Class Rep or Student Union.
You have the legal right to see all written comments on your exams and coursework if you request it.
UNIVERSITY POLICY
To protect your rights, it’s important to know which university policies apply to you.
If something feels unfair—like a denied extension or unexpected fee—you can quote the relevant policy in your appeal or complaint, and ask staff to explain how it was applied.
Policies can change, so check for updates regularly, especially at the start of each academic year or when your circumstances change.
Check here: https://www.hw.ac.uk/policies.htm
REPRESENTATION
You have the right to be involved in decisions that affect your education.
Under the Higher Education Governance (Scotland) Act 2016, universities must:
- Include student representatives on governing bodies and academic boards.
- Support democratic student unions.
- Ensure students have a voice in shaping policy, curriculum, and campus life.
At Heriot-Watt, Class Reps, Department Officers, and the Student Union ensure your voice is heard in decisions that affect your education
REASSESSMENT
You have the right to resit if you are a 1st to 3rd year undergraduate.
4th-year undergraduates are not entitled to resits unless there are mitigating circumstances; postgraduates are only entitled to a maximum of three resits.
- You can’t resit if you pass and want a better mark.
- You are required to pay a fee of £35.
In some rare cases, you may be able to repeat the course or appeal the decision. The Advice Hub is always on hand to help you decipher what an outcome means and explore next steps.
Please be mindful if you are someone who is currently studying on a visa- always check in with the global office about how this may impact your visa.
Learn more here: https://www.hw.ac.uk/uk/services/go-global-office.htm
PERSONAL TUTORS/ STUDENT ADVISORS
It's their job to make sure you are feeling supported during your time at university by providing you with the academic or non-academic tools you need.
Your personal tutor should contact you a minimum of three times each semester- but you can reach out as much as you need. Contact the student union if your tutor/ student advisor has not reached out or is not replying.
You can find out who your Personal Tutor/ Student Advisor is by going to the student portal, then clicking 'Student Services' and then 'Your student record' at the top of that page, you'll find the name and email address of who to contact.
2. International Student Rights
Digital Brochure - Know Your International Rights
RIGHT TO WORK
Your Student visa comes with strict conditions. Breaking them can lead to visa cancellation, deportation, or being barred from re-entry.
On a Student visa, you have conditions that limit your working hours to a maximum of 20 hours per week. This limit includes both paid and unpaid work.
Working beyond these hours may result in you being unable to get a Graduate visa or an extension of your Student visa.
You can work full-time in the summer period as an undergraduate student.
You are entitled to the same rights as a worker with permanent status or British citizenship (You can find out more about these rights in our employment rights section).
- You must be paid at least the UK National Minimum Wage (or higher if agreed).
- You are entitled to safe working conditions, proper work breaks, and respectful treatment.
- You have the right to report exploitative employers or unfair labour practices.
If you feel exploited at work, contact Citizens Advice, a UK-based free support service.
Check their website here: https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/
VISA CHECK INS
As a Student visa holder, you are required to engage with regular visa check-ins. These are part of your university’s legal duty to monitor your status and report to the Home Office.
There will be multiple points throughout your studies when you are required to attend a visa check-in on campus.
If you are going to miss this check-in, you will likely be sent a reminder. You may have to provide evidence to register an absence if it is over a certain period and you cannot make the check-in, e.g. a medical note.
As your visa sponsor, Heriot-Watt University has legal obligations to support you throughout your studies.
They:
- Must guarantee your access to everything needed to complete your course.
- Must not block you from attending graduation or applying for the Graduate visa.
- Must offer specific support for international students.
If you miss a check-in or something goes wrong, don’t panic; you still have rights and options. You Should :
- Contact the Visa Team immediately.
Explain the situation clearly and provide any evidence (e.g. doctor’s note, screenshots).
ATTENDANCE
As an international student, your attendance is monitored as part of your visa conditions. Your university is legally required to report non-attendance to the Home Office.
You must notify your school immediately if you are ill or unable to attend. You must engage with your course regularly—this includes submitting coursework and attending meetings.
Students who do not meet minimum attendance requirements will have their Tier 4 or student visa sponsorship withdrawn, and their visa will be cancelled.
You can report attendance via the SafeZone app and the Student Service Centre.
IMMIGRATION INFORMATION AND SUPPORT
You’re Entitled To:
- Guidance on Student Visa, Graduate Route, and Skilled Worker transitions.
- Notifications about visa changes or updates.
- Help with BRP card issues, address changes, and more.
Heriot-Watt has a student visa team that can help you at the student service centre.
HEALTHCARE ACCESS
As an international student in Scotland, you have access to free and subsidised healthcare through the NHS.
What’s Free:
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS):
- If you paid the IHS as part of your visa, you’re exempt from hospital fees.
- If your course is less than 6 months, you likely didn’t pay the IHS and may need private health insurance.
Registering with a GP:
- You must register with a GP once you’ve moved into your accommodation.
Bring:
- Passport or photo ID.
- Proof of address.
FINANCIAL SUPPORT
As an international student (as well as when you are on a Graduate visa), you will most likely have no recourse to public funds.
However, you are able to apply for a change in circumstances, which would enable you to gain access to public funds. Contact The Unity Project Charity for support in this process.
Heriot-Watt has a discretionary hardship fund for international students, you can apply for.
Learn more here: https://www.hw.ac.uk/uk/students/money/uk/student-hardship-funds.htm
POLITICAL ACTIVISM
You have a (limited) legal right to protest, but there are increasing restrictions on this.
This includes student politics and activism. For international students, there are ways this can affect your immigration status; for example, if you are suspended, this can have consequences for your immigration status.
There is no legal requirement to disclose your immigration status or nationality to the police just because they ask, even if you are arrested.
The likelihood of arrest varies with the action you partake in. Attending a strike or a march is less likely to result in an arrest, compared to an occupation of a company.
RIGHT TO STAY POST STUDIES
Your Student visa remains valid until the expiry date printed on your BRP (Biometric Residence Permit) or digital visa.
This date is typically set to include a short “wrap-up” period after your course ends. 4 months after the official course end date for degree-level courses.
You can use this to:
- Stay in the UK legally until your visa expires.
- Use this time to prepare and apply for a Graduate visa.
- Travel within the UK.
You cannot:
- Overstay your visa—even by one day.
- Work beyond your permitted hours unless you’ve switched to a Graduate visa.
The Graduate Visa is a post-study work visa that allows you to stay in the UK for:
- 2 years. (Bachelor’s or Master’s degree)
- 3 years. (PhD or other doctoral qualification)
You do not need a job offer to apply. You must apply before your student visa expires. You do not have to wait until graduation, but you must have completed your course and be currently in the UK to apply.
3. General Rights
Digital Brochure - Know Your General Rights
ONLINE SAFETY & PRIVACY
You have strong rights over how your data is collected, used, and shared—by universities, companies, and online platforms.
You have the:
- Right to be informed – You must be told how your data is used (e.g. in privacy notices).
- Right of access – You can request a copy of all personal data held about you (see below).
- Right to rectification – You can ask for incorrect or incomplete data to be corrected.
- Right to erasure – You can ask for your data to be deleted in certain cases.
- Right to restrict processing – You can limit how your data is used.
- Right to object – You can object to data being used for marketing or profiling.
- Right to opt out - You can stop your data being used by any company for any reason.
You have the right to a copy of the personal data organisations hold about you. You can put in a Subject Access Request, and ask for:
- Copies of emails, notes, or records that mention you.
- Data used in decisions about you. (e.g. academic appeals, disciplinary actions)
- Information about how your data is being used, stored, and shared
FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION ONLINE
You have the right to express your views, identity, and beliefs online. This is protected under the Human Rights Act 1998.
Learn more here: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1998/42/introduction
You’re Free to:
- Share your opinions on social, political, or academic issues.
- Express your cultural or religious identity.
- Criticise institutions, policies, or public figures.
- Join online campaigns, petitions, or student movements.
Universities must protect your freedom of speech, even if your views are unpopular—as long as they don’t incite harm.
You are not allowed to partake in:
- Hate speech or incitement to violence.
- Harassment, bullying, or defamation.
- Sharing private information without consent. (doxxing)
- Posting illegal content (e.g. extremist material)
These actions can lead to:
- University disciplinary action.
- Police investigation.
- Legal consequences.
If you feel your freedom of expression is being unfairly restricted, speak to the Student Union or seek legal advice.
CONSUMER RIGHTS
The Consumer Rights Act 2015 protects you when you buy Goods, Services and Digital content.
Learn more here: https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2015/15/contents
Goods must be of satisfactory quality, meaning they should be free from defects and last a reasonable amount of time. They must also be fit for purpose and match the description provided at the time of purchase.
You can get a full refund within 30 days of purchase if the item is faulty. After 30 days, you can request a repair or replacement. If that doesn’t work, you may be entitled to a partial refund.
You have a 14-day cooling-off period for most online purchases. You can cancel and get a refund even if the item isn’t faulty. This applies to:
- Online shops.
- Phone contracts.
- Subscription services.
Custom-made items, perishable goods, and some digital downloads may not be refundable once accessed.
If Something Goes Wrong:
- Contact the seller or service provider directly.
- Keep receipts, screenshots, and emails.
If they refuse to help, contact:
DEMOCRATIC RIGHTS
As a student in Scotland, you have the right to participate in civic life, regardless of your nationality or background.
British, Irish, EU, and qualifying Commonwealth citizens can vote in Scottish Parliament and local elections if they live in Scotland.
You must be 16 or over and registered to vote at your term-time or home address.
You can vote in UK general elections if you are 18+ and a British or Irish citizen.
You have the right to peacefully protest, campaign, and express your views under the Human Rights Act 1998.
Universities must protect your freedom of speech, provided it doesn’t incite hatred or violence.
All students can legally engage with political activities, including joining political parties, campaigning, and attending protests.
You have the right to challenge decisions by public bodies (e.g. councils, universities) through:
- Complaints procedures.
- The Scottish Public Services Ombudsman. (SPSO) https://www.spso.org.uk/
- Judicial review in serious cases.
POLICE RIGHTS
If You’re Stopped or Searched:
- Police must have reasonable grounds or a legal power (e.g. a warrant or suspicion of drugs, weapons, stolen goods or entering a venue where the conditions apply).
- You can ask: “Under what power?”
- You have the right to a receipt of the search and to refuse a voluntary search
- If you are searched without a legal reason (even if you consent), the police have acted unlawfully.
If You’re Arrested:
- You have the right to:
- Free legal advice.
- Know why you’re being detained.
- Contact someone you trust.
- Be treated with dignity and care.
- Police must review your detention after 12 hours and either release or charge you within 24 hours
Giving your details to the police:
You only have to give your name, address, date and place of birth, and nationality if:
- You’re suspected of a crime.
- You’re under arrest.
- You’re driving a vehicle.
Otherwise, you can say: “No comment”
Section 60 Order:
Authorised by a senior officer, this allows police to stop and search anyone in a set area for a set time without suspicion, usually due to an “anticipation of violence” (often during protests or sporting events). If searched, you don’t have to give personal details.
For more information on police rights, visit Scottish Community & Activist Legal Project (SCALP), a volunteer-run collective of people offering legal support.
Learn more here: https://www.scottishactivistlegalproject.co.uk/guide-to-activism-scottish-law-and-the-police/
DISABILITY & ACCESSIBILITY RIGHTS
Under the Equality Act 2010, you are protected from discrimination if you have a physical or mental impairment that has a substantial and long-term effect on your ability to carry out day-to-day activities.
You Have the Right To:
- Reasonable adjustments in education, housing, work, and public services.
- Accessible facilities. (e.g. lifts, toilets, lecture materials)
- Support for invisible disabilities. (e.g. autism, chronic illness, mental health conditions)
- Protection from harassment or unfair treatment.
You’re also protected if you’re perceived to be disabled or associated with someone who is.
You don’t need a formal diagnosis to be protected, what matters is the impact on your daily life.
If your needs aren’t being met, you can:
- Raise the issue with your university’s disability service.
- Contact the Equality and Human Rights Commission.
- Seek advice from Citizens Advice Scotland.
4. Housing Rights
Digital Brochure - Know Your Housing Rights
WRITTEN TENANCY AGREEMENT
You must receive a written agreement on or before move-in day.
- It must state your rent amount and due dates.
- It must outline deposit details and how it’s protected.
- It must explain how to end the tenancy and give notice.
- It must cover repairs, landlord access, subletting and other occupant rules.
If your agreement includes a term that removes your legal rights, you can apply to the tribunal to have it struck out.
DEPOSIT PROTECTION
Your landlord can ask for up to two months’ rent as a deposit. They must lodge it in a government-approved scheme within 30 working days and give you the scheme details.
On move-out, the scheme holds the deposit until you and your landlord agree on deductions
Ask for a cost breakdown if deductions are proposed. If you disagree, the scheme will adjudicate fairly.
Landlords can only deduct to return the property to its original condition, cover unpaid rent, or repair damage beyond fair wear and tear.
RENT, INCREASES & ILLEGAL CHARGES
Your landlord can only raise your rent once a year, and they must give you at least 3 months’ notice in writing. If they don’t follow this process, the increase may not be valid.
If you think your rent is going up too much or is higher than similar flats in the area, you have the right to challenge it.
You must do this within 21 days of getting the rent increase notice.
To challenge it, you apply to Rent Service Scotland. Keep paying your current rent while you wait for a decision to be made.
Learn more here: https://www.mygov.scot/create-rent-increase-referral
It is also illegal for landlords or agents to charge admin, viewing or reference fees; only your rent and deposit are due up front. If you’ve been charged illegal fees, you can ask for a refund.
GUESTS & SUBLETTING
You’re allowed reasonable visitors, just be mindful of noise rules in your contract or HMO code of conduct.
Charging guests or offering rooms on platforms like Airbnb is classed as subletting and normally forbidden unless you get written landlord consent.
Unauthorised sublets breach your tenancy and risk eviction.
SAFE, HABITABLE HOME & REPAIRS
Your flat must be fit to live in from day one and kept in good repair throughout your tenancy.
The structure and exterior should be sound, free from serious damp, leaks or dangerous hazards. Windows and doors must lock. You’re entitled to working heating, constant hot and cold water, functioning toilets, baths or showers, and smoke alarms.
Repair timelines and access:
- Emergencies (no heating in winter, gas leaks, major water leaks) must be addressed within 24–48 hours.
- Non-emergency repairs require at least 48 hours’ written notice before your landlord or contractor enters.
- Landlord must use qualified, competent contractors and respond “promptly” to all repair requests.
What to do if repairs aren’t carried out:
- Report the issue in writing (email or text) and keep a copy of your request
- Date-stamp photos of the defect and any damage it’s causing
- If no action is taken, contact Shelter Scotland or escalate to the housing tribunal.
EVICTIONS & HOW TO CHALLENGE THEM
Landlords cannot force you out or change the locks—they must follow strict steps under Scottish law:
- Serve a valid Notice to Leave with a legal “ground” (e.g., rent arrears, landlord’s personal use)
- Apply to the Housing & Property Chamber (First-tier Tribunal) for an eviction order
- If granted, a Sheriff Officer enforces the removal
Challenging an Eviction: You have the right to stay until the tribunal decides.
To defend yourself:
- Check the Notice to Leave: Is the ground correct and the notice period valid?
- Gather evidence: rent receipts, emails about repairs, witness statements.
- Submit your written objection to the Tribunal before the deadline. (usually 14 days)
- Attend the hearing to present your case and request a stay or delay if needed.
Any attempt to change locks, cut utilities, or physically remove you without a tribunal order is illegal. If this happens:
Call Police Scotland immediately if you feel unsafe and contact Shelter Scotland.
Learn more here: https://scotland.shelter.org.uk/
LEAVING YOUR TENANCY & MOVING OUT
You can end your tenancy at any time by giving 28 days’ written notice (email or signed letter). Notice starts the day your landlord receives it. You don’t need to give a reason, but you must stick to the notice period.
Before you leave, you need to:
- Clean Thoroughly.
- Repair Small Damages.
- Remove All Belongings.
- Take “Before and After” Photos.
Final Inspection & Deposit Return
- Request a joint final inspection, attend with your landlord or agent to note any issues.
- Use your inventory and photo evidence to dispute unfair damage claims.
- Ask for a written breakdown of any deductions.
- If you can’t agree, raise a dispute with your landlord’s deposit protection scheme within 30 working days.
Joint Tenancies & Replacements
- In a joint tenancy, all tenants share responsibility—one person’s notice usually ends the entire agreement.
- Want out, but flatmates want to stay? - Propose a replacement flatmate and ask the landlord for approval.
PRIVACY & PROTECTION FROM HARASSMENT
You have the right to quiet enjoyment of your home. Harassment by a landlord or agent is a criminal offence.
Harassment includes:
- Entering without permission or notice.
- Turning off gas, water or electricity.
- Sending threats or repeated unwanted messages.
- Intimidation, aggressive behaviour or unlawful eviction tactics.
What to do:
- Keep a log of dates, times and incidents.
- Take photos or screenshots of any evidence.
- Report to your council’s Private Rented Team.
- If you feel unsafe, contact Police Scotland.
- Seek support from Shelter Scotland.
TENANTS UNION
You can (and should) join your local tenants' union. Tenants unions bring renters together to understand, defend and expand the rights you already have by law.
As a student, joining gives you collective muscle to tackle issues that affect everyone in your flat or building making it easier to secure safe homes, fair rents and respectful treatment.
5. Employment Rights
Digital Brochure - Know Your Employment Rights
MINIMUM WAGE & INTERNSHIPS
You must be paid at least the legal minimum wage. This changes every year and is different depending on your age.
You can check the UK government website for the current minimum wage.
If you have been underpaid, raise it with your manager or report it to HMRC anonymously.
Unpaid internships are only legal if you’re shadowing or volunteering. If you’re doing real work, you must be paid.
Learn more here: https://www.gov.uk/national-minimum-wage
WORKING HOURS & BREAKS
You have the right to rest and fair treatment.
- 20-minute break if working over 6 hours.
- 11 hours rest between shifts.
- 1 full day off every 7 days.
You cannot be fired, have your hours cut or be treated unfairly for speaking up about your rights.
Employers must not pressure you to work hours that interfere with classes or exams. You're not legally required to prioritise work over education.
Learn more here: https://www.gov.uk/rest-breaks-work
CONTRACTS & WRITTEN TERMS
You have the right to a written statement of employment terms on or before your first day. This must include:
- Job, title, pay, hours, holiday entitlement, and notice period.
- Verbal agreements are not enough—always ask for written confirmation.
- If you don’t receive this, request it in writing. If ignored, contact the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration.
- Service (ACAS)
Zero–hour contracts mean that you are not guaranteed any hours, but you are entitled to employment rights when working, which also means you can refuse shifts without penalty.
You’re still entitled to:
- Holiday pay.
- Rest breaks.
- Protection from unfair treatment.
If you’ve worked 12+ weeks, you can request a predictable schedule. Employers must respond reasonably. If you’re being pressured to accept shifts or punished for saying no, raise it with your manager in writing. If it continues, contact Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (ACAS - https://www.acas.org.uk/contact)
AM I BEING EXPLOITED?
Working while studying can be a great way to earn money and build skills, but it must be safe, respectful, and legal.
Signs You Might Be Exploited:
- Not paid for trial shifts.
- Refused breaks or holiday pay.
- No written contract or payslips.
- Unsafe working conditions.
- Bullying, harassment, or discrimination.
- Unexplained or unfair deductions from pay.
These practices are illegal or unacceptable. You have the right to speak up and report it.
It is illegal for employers to discriminate based on age, gender, race, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.
You are protected from harassment, including inappropriate comments, bullying, or unfair treatment.
What to do if you are being exploited or discriminated against:
DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES
If your employer is concerned about your performance or conduct, they can seek disciplinary action.
Your employer must follow a fair and transparent process before taking disciplinary action. This includes:
- A written explanation of the issue.
- A chance to respond and give your side.
- A meeting where you can bring a colleague or union rep.
- A written outcome with reasons.
- The right to appeal the decision.
DISMISSALS
You can only be dismissed for a valid reason if you are an employee, such as:
- Misconduct (e.g. repeated lateness, serious behaviour issues)
- Poor performance.
- Redundancy.
Even then, your employer must:
- Follow a fair process.
- Give you a chance to respond.
- Provide a written explanation.
If your employer makes your job unbearable through bullying, unsafe conditions, or major contract breaches, you may have a case for constructive dismissal.
ACCESSIBILITY ADJUSTMENTS
If you have a disability or health condition (including mental health), your employer has a legal duty to make reasonable adjustments so you can do your job.
This might include:
- Flexible hours or remote work.
- Extra breaks or reduced workload.
- Equipment or software.
- A quieter workspace.
Tell your employer what you need (you don’t have to share full medical details). If they refuse without good reason, seek advice from your union or ACAS.
Learn more here: https://www.acas.org.uk/contact
Learn more here: https://www.gov.uk/reasonable-adjustments-for-disabled-workers
BULLYING & HARASSMENT
You have the right to feel safe and respected in the workplace. It is illegal for anyone, whether a manager, colleague, or customer, to harass or bully you.
Harassment includes:
- Offensive jokes or comments.
- Unwanted touching or attention.
- Discrimination and microaggressions.
- Being shouted at or humiliated.
You are also protected by all 9 protected characteristics under the Equality Act.
Age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation.
You have the right to report harassment. Your employer must take it seriously.
Helpline - https://www.nationalbullyinghelpline.co.uk/workplace-grievance.html
JOIN A TRADE UNION
Trade unions are legal organisations that support workers.
They help you:
- Understand your rights.
- Challenge unfair treatment.
- Negotiate better pay and conditions.
- Get representation in disputes.
You have a legal right to join a union. Your employer cannot:
- Stop you from joining.
- Punish you for being a member.
- Offer incentives to leave or avoid joining.
If there is no Union at your workplace, you can start one!
Steps to get started:
1.Talk to your co-workers – Find out if others are interested in joining a union.
2.Contact a union – Use join-a-union to find the right one for your sector.
3. Ask for support – A union organiser can help you: Set up a local branch Organise for better conditions Campaign for recognition
4. Build support – The more members you have, the stronger your voice.
5. Request recognition – Once enough people join, you can ask your employer to formally recognise the union. Recognition gives you the right to negotiate pay, hours, and conditions.
Learn more here: https://www.gov.uk/join-trade-union