Marriage & Civil Partnerships

What do we mean by Marriage & Civil Partnerships?

In the UK, marriage is a legally recognised union between two individuals, while a civil partnership is a legally recognised relationship between same-sex or opposite-sex couples, offering similar rights and responsibilities as marriage. Both marriage and civil partnerships provide legal recognition and protection for the couple’s relationship, including rights in areas such as inheritance, taxation, and pensions.

What is the law on Marriage & Civil Partnerships when it comes to recruitment and careers?

In the United Kingdom, the Equality Act 2010 serves as the primary legislation that safeguards employees from discrimination based on various protected characteristics, including marriage and civil partnerships. This legislation mandates that employers must treat individuals who are married or in a civil partnership equally, ensuring that they do not face any form of discrimination during recruitment, career advancement, or other employment-related matters.

During the recruitment process, employers are prohibited from making decisions based on an individual’s marital status or civil partnership. This includes avoiding questions about an applicant’s relationship status during interviews, as well as ensuring that job advertisements do not discriminate against individuals based on whether they are married or in a civil partnership. Employers must focus on assessing candidates based on their skills, qualifications, and experience, rather than their personal lives.

In terms of career progression, employers must ensure that employees who are married or in a civil partnership have equal access to opportunities for training, development, promotions, and other benefits. It is unlawful for employers to treat employees less favourably due to their marital status or civil partnership, which includes denying them access to training programs or career advancement opportunities.

By adhering to the UK law and promoting a fair and inclusive work environment, employers can foster a diverse and thriving workforce.

Specific considerations

Key organisations & resources

Calendar events

23 September 2024

National Inclusion Week

Founded by Inclusive Employers, National Inclusion Week (NIW) is a week dedicated to celebrating inclusion and taking action to create inclusive workplaces.

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25 November 2024

International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women

This campaign, led by the UN Secretary-General and UN Women since 2008, aims to prevent and eliminate violence against women and girls around the world, calling for global action to increase awareness, promote advocacy and create opportunities for discussion on challenges and solutions.

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2 December 2024

International Day for the Abolition of Slavery

The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery marks the date of the adoption, by the General Assembly, of the United Nations Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Exploitation of the Prostitution of Others (resolution 317(IV) of 2 December 1949).

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10 December 2024

Human Rights Day

In the decades since the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948, human rights have become more recognised and more guaranteed across the globe.

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14 May 2025

National Day for Staff Networks

The National Day for Staff Networks is the world’s only nationwide day dedicated to recognising networks/resource groups and the incredible value they add to the workplace.

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9 June 2025

Carers Week

Carers Week is an annual campaign to raise awareness of caring, highlight the challenges unpaid carers face and recognise the contribution they make to families and communities throughout the UK.

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