Problems at work
For more information, visit the Parkinson’s UK website (last updated November 2021).
How am I protected against discrimination in the workplace?
It’s against the law for an employer to discriminate against you because of your Parkinson’s.
Having Parkinson’s means you are likely to meet the statutory (legal) definition of being disabled under the Equality Act, or the Disability Discrimination Act in Northern Ireland.
Employers also have a duty to make changes to the way you work to help you continue doing your job. These are known as reasonable adjustments, and are explained more in the next section.
Will I still be protected during periods when I’m feeling fine?
Yes. The law protects people who have fluctuating conditions like Parkinson’s, which are likely to change and develop over time. This means that you’re still protected even when your symptoms are not affecting your ability to carry out ‘normal’ day-to-day activities.
These activities may include:
- walking
- reading and writing
- carrying or moving things
- concentrating and learning
- having a conversation or using the telephone
What if I think my employer is discriminating against me?
If you feel you’re being treated unfairly in the workplace, the first thing to do is talk to your line manager. Ask for a meeting and talk to them about what has been happening.
There are other escalation routes. It’s best to start with an informal discussion.
Your staff handbook should tell you the process for doing this, or you should ask for guidance from the human resources department on your employer’s policies.
You will also need to find out more about your legal rights. Your trade union, the Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS) the Advisory, Conciliation Arbitration Service (ACAS), Citizens Advice or the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland should be able to advise you.
Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS)
Advisory, Conciliation Arbitration Service (ACAS)
Equality Commission for Northern Ireland
What if I believe I am being dismissed because of my condition?
You should seek advice immediately. This can be from your trade union if you are a member, your local Citizens Advice or Law Centre, or from the Disability Law Service.