Equality and Human Rights Commission Support Helpline and Guide UK

The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) is the UK’s national equality body. Its role is to protect and promote human rights and enforce the Equality Act 2010. While the EHRC oversees the law and carries out large-scale investigations, direct support for individuals is primarily provided through the Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS).

If you have been treated unfairly because of who you are, or if your basic rights have been breached, free support UK is available. This guide will help you find the right confidential support UK to resolve your situation.

If You Need Help Right Now (Emergency Path)

If you are currently in danger, or if you are the victim of a hate crime that is happening now or has just occurred:

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• Call 999 immediately if there is a threat to life, a risk of physical harm, or if a crime is in progress.

• Call 101 to report a non-emergency hate crime or incident to the police.

• Report Online: You can also report hate incidents via the True Vision website, which is a police-run service.

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Understanding the Equality and Human Rights Commission

The Equality and Human Rights Commission ensures that everyone in Britain is treated with dignity and respect. The law protects you from discrimination based on nine "protected characteristics":

• Age and Disability

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• Race, Religion, or Belief

• Sex and Sexual Orientation

• Gender Reassignment

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• Pregnancy and Maternity

• Marriage and Civil Partnership

Common Situations People Face

You might seek Equality and Human Rights Commission support UK if you are experiencing:

• Workplace Discrimination: Being passed over for promotion or unfairly dismissed.

• Service Refusal: Being denied entry to a shop, restaurant, or transport due to a disability.

• Harassment: Unwanted conduct that creates an intimidating or hostile environment.

• Human Rights Breaches: Unfair treatment by a public authority (like a hospital or council).

UK Helplines, Support & Official Services

1. The Primary Helpline: EASS

The Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS) is the official Equality and Human Rights Commission helpline UK for individuals.

• Organisation: Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS)

• Who it helps: Anyone in England, Scotland, or Wales facing discrimination.

• Phone Number: 0808 800 0082 (Freephone)

• Textphone: 0808 800 0084

• Website: https://www.equalityadvisoryservice.com

• Availability: Mon–Fri (9am–7pm), Sat (10am–2pm).

• Note: They provide free support UK but do not provide legal representation.

2. Employment and Workplace Rights

For specific disputes between employers and employees regarding equality.

• Organisation: Acas (Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service)

• Who it helps: Employees and employers looking to resolve workplace disputes.

• Phone Number: 0300 123 1100

• Website: https://www.acas.org.uk/

• Availability: Mon–Fri (8am–6pm).

3. Human Rights Advocacy

For those who believe their fundamental human rights have been violated by a public body.

• Organisation: Liberty

• Who it helps: Individuals needing advice on the Human Rights Act.

• Website: https://www.libertyhumanrights.org.uk

• Note: They offer a dedicated human rights helpline on specific days (check website for current hours).

4. Hate Crime Support

If discrimination has escalated into threats, violence, or targeted abuse.

• Organisation: Stop Hate UK

• Who it helps: Victims and witnesses of hate crimes.

• Phone Number: 0808 801 0393 (24/7 Helpline)

• Website: https://www.stophateuk.org

• Availability: 24/7 helpline UK.

How to Choose the Right Helpline

• Facing discrimination in a shop or by a landlord? Call the EASS.

• Issues with your boss or at a job interview? Contact Acas.

• Victim of a crime motivated by prejudice? Call Stop Hate UK or the police.

• General rights questions? Start with Citizens Advice or the EASS.

Step-by-Step: What Happens When You Call

1. Active Listening: An advisor will listen to your story without judgement.

2. Identification: They will help you identify if your situation falls under the Equality Act 2010.

3. Options: You will be given options for "informal resolution," such as writing a formal complaint letter.

4. Templates: The EASS can provide template letters to help you state your case clearly.

5. Referral: If you need a solicitor, they can explain how to find legal aid or specialized services.

Support for Friends, Family, or Carers

If you are supporting someone who has been discriminated against, you can call these helplines for advice. It is often helpful to have dates, names, and a brief timeline of events ready. You can also seek confidential support UK for your own wellbeing, as witnessing discrimination can be distressing.

What You Can Do While Waiting for Support?

• Keep a Diary: Write down exactly what happened, including dates, times, and what was said.

• Save Evidence: Keep emails, texts, or letters related to the incident.

• Check Policies: Look at the equality policy of the organisation involved (e.g., your employer’s handbook).

Role of Government & Regulators

The Equality and Human Rights Commission is an independent body, but it is accountable to Parliament. It monitors how well the UK is protecting rights and can take legal action against organisations that systematically fail to follow the law.

Final Reassurance

No one should have to face discrimination alone. The Equality and Human Rights Commission support UK network is designed to empower you. Reaching out is a brave first step toward ensuring you—and others—are treated with the fairness and dignity you deserve.

Support-Related Questions & Answers

1. Who can I call for Equality and Human Rights Commission in the UK?
   You should call the Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS) at 0808 800 0082.

2. Is there a free helpline for Equality and Human Rights Commission?
   Yes, the EASS is a free service funded by the government.

3. Can I stay anonymous?
   You can call for general advice anonymously, but certain formal processes may require your details.

4. What if it’s an emergency?
   Dial 999 for any immediate threat of violence or a hate crime in progress.

5. Can I call on behalf of someone else?
   Yes, the EASS and Acas both accept calls from friends, family, or advocates.

6. Does the EHRC provide lawyers?
   The EHRC only takes on a small number of strategic legal cases; the EASS helps you find your own legal path.

7. What is a "protected characteristic"?
   These are the nine traits (like race, sex, or disability) that the law protects from discrimination.

8. How long do I have to make a claim?
   For most employment tribunals, you have three months minus one day from the date of the incident.

9. Can the EASS give me legal advice?
   No, they provide information and support, not formal legal advice.

10. Is this service only for English speakers?
    No, the EASS can provide support in multiple languages via interpreters.

11. What is the Equality Act 2010?
    It is the primary law in the UK that protects people from discrimination and unfair treatment.

12. Can I get help if I’m being bullied at school?
    Yes, the EASS provides guidance on discrimination within the education system.

13. Is there a text relay service?
    Yes, use 0808 800 0084 for the EASS textphone service.

14. Does the EHRC cover Northern Ireland?
    No, Northern Ireland has its own Equality Commission for Northern Ireland.

15. What is informal resolution?
    This means trying to fix the problem directly with the person or company before going to court.

DISCLAIMER: Please verify all phone numbers, email addresses, and service details on the official government or organisation websites before use. Numbers and contact information are subject to change without notice.