The Human Rights Act came into force in the United Kingdom on 2nd October 2000. This means that for the first time in this country fundamental human rights are now protected by law.

The Human Rights Act represents a cultural shift towards the importance of individual and collective rights, particularly in the workplace, and incorporates the European Convention on Human Rights which seeks to protect fundamental basic human rights as defined in it's various Articles.

Amongst the most important Articles for FBU members are:-

Article 6 - the right to a fair trial (this will be important in the area of disciplinary/professional disciplinary proceedings and administrative pension procedures).

Article 8 - the right to respect for private and family life.

Article 9 - the right to freedom of thought, conscience and religion.

Article 10 - the right to freedom of expression

Article 11 - the right to freedom of assembly and association.

Article 14 - the right to enjoy convention rights without discrimination.

If you are of the view that your human rights are being breached in your workplace, you must contact the FBU in the first instance for advice.