Study finds weight discrimination occurs in 69% of workplaces

What did the study find on weight discrimination?

Almost half of the respondents (47%) consider it to be a problem. More than 30% of workers reported witnessing discrimination against someone else due to their weight.

Unfortunately, over 35% of those who reported weight discrimination at work did not see any action taken in response to their complaint.

According to the study, 40% of workers opted not to report cases of weight discrimination because they did not view it as a significant matter worth reporting.

Weight discrimination is also present during the hiring process, as 11% of those surveyed admitted they would not consider hiring an overweight applicant, citing concerns about their health (31%), work ethic (21%), and motivation (17%).

Additionally, a fifth of individuals believe that their weight has negatively impacted their career prospects.

How can HR deal with weight discrimination in the workplace?

Kate Palmer, HR Advice and Consultancy Director at Peninsula emphasises the need for HR departments to recognise that weight discrimination is a problem in the workplace.

She suggested that those involved in recruitment and talent identification should be educated on the issue and its impact on employees’ careers and work life.

Could the Bullying and Respect at Work Bill help weight discrimination in the workplace?

The Bullying and Respect at Work Bill, which was proposed on July 11th, would require employers to establish procedures for reporting, investigating, and punishing bullying.

This bill would also promote positive behaviours through a Respect at Work Code, which would be enforced by the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) that specifies bullying behaviours.

If the Bullying and Respect at Work Bill becomes law, workers subjected to abuse or differentiation because of their weight will have greater clarity and protection.

Free HR advice

It’s important for employers to spot the signs of weight discrimination in the workplace early on, as early detection can help prevent bullying and future-proof employee mental health.

It is also important for employees to understand where and how they can seek the right support and help.

You have a duty of care when it comes to your employees and not providing them with this care can cause unhappy and unmotivated staff. That’s why it’s important to implement policies and procedures that strengthen your company culture.

We offer 24/7 assistance to guide you through the processes and procedures for HR and employment law.

Please speak to one of our HR and employment law advisors free at 0800 152 2287 or fill in the form here to request a callback.