Petition · Ministry of Justice

Make social class a protected characteristic under the Equality Act

Closed 392 signatures

What the petition asks

The government should amend the Equality Act 2010 and make social class a protected characteristic.
Research has shown that social class is one of the greatest influences on life chances. Class discrimination impacts upon access to postgraduate courses, recruitment and promotions in all the professions. There are also well-evidenced class pay gaps between those of equal qualifications and experience. We are concerned that the law remains silent about such discrimination, whereas it prohibits other forms of discrimination.

Timeline

12 Jan 2026 Petition opened for signatures
12 Jul 2026 Closed to new signatures

Key facts

Signatures 392
Status Closed
Department Ministry of Justice
Opened 12 Jan 2026
Closed 12 Jul 2026

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Source: the official petition page. Last checked 5 Aug 2026.