13 January 2025
Page 6 of 8
Examples
In a golfing context, some examples of discrimination might include:
• Not allowing the use of golf buggies, as this increases the cost of maintaining the
course. Permitting the use of golf buggies may be a reasonable adjustment, and
the increased course maintenance costs are a factor to be assessed in deciding
whether or not the adjustment is reasonable.
• Restricting the number of tee times available to women during peak hours at a golf
course. Whilst it may be permissible to limit access to the course at certain times,
for example to allow a competition to be played, a club will need to be certain that
it is providing equal opportunity to access the course for various groups.
• Not allowing competitions to be played on alternate days to accommodate for
certain religious beliefs.
B. Harassment
Harassment is defined in section 26(1) of the Equality Act 2010. Harassment occurs where
a person engages in unwanted conduct related to a Protected Characteristic (outlined in
the Equality Act 2010), which has the purpose of either:
• Violating the other person's dignity; or
• Creates an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment
for the other person.
In determining whether conduct amounts to harassment, regard is had to:
• The perception of the victim
• Whether it is reasonable for the conduct to have the perceived effect
• The wider circumstances of the matter.
Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment occurs where a person engages in unwanted conduct of a sexual
nature, and the conduct has the purpose or effects outlined above.
One Off Incidents
A single, isolated, or one-off incident can still amount to harassment. The key consideration
is the purpose or effect of the conduct.