‘Straight’ bouncer wins compensation in discrimination case

A woman who worked as a bouncer at a gay nightclub has won more than £6,000 compensation after claiming that she had been bullied by other staff because she was heterosexual.

Sharon Legg, who was dismissed from her job in 2006, says she was referred to as “breeder” and subjected to other abusive remarks because she was not bisexual or a lesbian. She was awarded £3,000 for injury to her feelings because of the harassment and £3,222 for unfair dismissal because the club did not adhere to the correct procedures. However, the tribunal did not conclude that she was dismissed because she was not gay.

Ms Legg won her award for damages under the Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations Act 2003 – legislation more usually associated with protecting the rights of gay staff. The case shows that discrimination laws can be used to protect all employees, not just those from minority groups.

Anyone who feels they have been discriminated against at work should seek legal advice.