Following September’s warning by employment law firm Eversheds, - that young people are more likely to suffer from age discrimination at work than old – the Employers Forum on Age (EFA) has reiterated the message, and warned that younger victims are far more likely to initiate legal proceedings as well.

age discrimination legislation comes into force in 2006 and the younger generation, weaned on Judge Judy and LA Law, are a much more litigious bunch. They are aware of their rights and are not afraid to use them!

Sam Mercer, Director of the EFA, comments:

“I anticipate that the first claims from employees will come from the younger end of the workforce. Employers have got their eye their eyes on how they treat workers over 50, but don’t realise how they treat younger workers is just as important.”

The EFA have pointed out that the rush to advance the image of older workers as devoted and diligent employees often has the effect of suggesting that younger workers are the opposite. Indeed, Mercer says has said that following a conference about employing older workers, one attendee claimed they would never employ a young one again!

The types of discrimination younger workers were most susceptible to were inferior benefits packages and fewer promotion prospects. Audrey Williams of Eversheds said:

“If all these people start issuing claims, employers will be faced with a serious problem. The treatment of younger workers is a very real risk area for employers and that cases currently brought under sex discrimination legislation might in future be brought under age discrimination.”