The Minstry of Defence has, for many years, maintained that it is an Equal Opprtunities employer and that it doea not and will not, discrimate against anyone. Despite this significant principle, as with many situations found in civilian life, there are incidents within the Forces, where personnel are not treated fairly by their line manager.
Examples of this, some of which have received wide scale publicity during the last fews years, include incidents of genda discrimination relating to pregnancy & physical ability and homosexuality.
The issues, harassment, victimisation, bullying and in some cases, more extreme acts, need to be persued within strict time limits and should commence with an application for a redress of complaint, in accordance with section 180 of the Army act 1955, Air Force Act 1955, or the appropriate book of record for the Royal Navy, within three months of the grievance arising.
Very often, as a result of applications for a redress not being compiled in the appropriate way, the applications may be dismissed and aggrieved members of the Armed Forces, may need help in pursuing matters further. In addition, there may be a necessity to commence Employment Tribunal proceedings within a relatively short time frame.
The form of proceedings may be complex and advice should be taken to provide a more thorough guide to the form of complaint and the solution which is required.
Not only do these matters apply to members of the regular Armed Forces, the reserve forces are also protected by the same acts of Parliament and regulations which are available to protect their regular counterparts.
