Expect ageism claims as law takes effect

Optical practices and suppliers should expect a rash of potentially expensive claims that they have been ageist, after anti-ageism legislation takes effect in October, according to the Employers' Forum on Age (EFA).

EFA director Sam Mercer warned there will be 'vexatious claims'. Many employers fear that rejected job applicants and existing employees could both cite their age - whether young or old - as the basis of a legal complaint, she said.

However, Mercer said that employers should be safe from censure provided they could show anti-ageist policies and practices. 'It's about employers getting transparent, getting fair and showing they are fair.'

Based on the number of workers making claims under existing discrimination laws and the levels of subsequent awards by employment tribunals, the EFA estimated that anti-ageism awards could cost all UK employers £193m in 2007 alone. There is no limit on employment tribunal pay-outs.