2. Protected characteristics — who the law covers

Great Britain

In England, Wales and Scotland the Equality Act 2010 lists nine protected characteristics: age; disability; gender reassignment; marriage and civil partnership; pregnancy and maternity; race; religion or belief; sex; and sexual orientation. You do not need to memorise a courtroom test — you do need to stop and think before a booking rule, a joke, or a “we don’t treat people like that here” refusal.

Northern Ireland

Equality law is not identical. Practices in Northern Ireland must follow the statutes and guidance that apply there, not an England-only poster copied from another group.

Disability is broader than a wheelchair

A physical or mental impairment with a substantial, long-term effect on day-to-day life can be a disability. That can include sensory loss, learning disability, autism, some mental-health conditions, and long-term illness. You should not demand a diagnosis letter before you are polite, clear, and willing to adjust how you communicate.

You will not always know

People are not obliged to disclose everything at reception. Do not out someone’s HIV status, gender history, or sexuality in the waiting room. Record only what is needed for care, with the usual confidentiality rules.

Belief and no belief

Religion or belief includes philosophical beliefs and the lack of religion. You can still refuse clinically inappropriate treatment. You cannot refuse a lawful, clinically indicated service because you dislike the person’s faith or lack of it.

Age is not a clinical shortcut

Do not assume an older adult cannot consent, or that a teenager “does not mind” poor explanation. Capacity and consent stay decision-specific (see Legal and Ethical 1). Ageist jokes in the surgery are still harassment if they create a hostile environment.