Thread by @zeno001

Hi @GEOgovuk @trussliz

I note you're advertising for a 'Senior Research Officer, Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Research':

civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk/csr/jobs.cgi?j…

The Equality and Diversity section of the job application asks for the applicant's 'gender' and includes the options 'Male' and 'Female'.

'Gender' is not a protected characteristic under the Equality Act 2010 and is not defined in the Act.

Sex is the protected characteristic and the only two possible options for sex are 'Female' and 'Male' as defined in the Act and consistent with biology.

Asking about a personal characteristic such as 'gender' that is not a protected characteristic under the Act, may be in breach of the GDPR by processing personal data without a lawful basis.

Language and meaning of words are important and proper use & understanding of terms is vital so that the public is aware of what rights they have and what your duties are. Any confusion or inconsistency over meaning may prevent people from accessing their rights in law.

Will you undertake to correct these errors and to review all your other policies, documents, reports, etc to ensure compliance?

Please respond.

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@threadreaderapp @GEOgovuk @trussliz

I'm disappointed you've not yet responded but I further note that your advert for the position gives what appears to be a list of the protected characteristics under Equality Act 2010 but it includes 'gender' & 'gender identity':

cabinetofficejobs.tal.net/vx/appcentre-1…

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These terms are not protected characteristics and your list omits sex, which, as you will be well aware, is a protected characteristic under the Act.

Will you correct this?

Please respond.

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