Definition

Marriage is a union between a man and a woman or between a same-sex couple.

Same-sex couples can also have their relationships legally recognised as ‘civil partnerships’. Civil partners must not be treated less favourably than married couples (except where permitted by the Equality Act).

How this pertains to Higher Education

Marriage and Civil Partnership as a protected characteristic does not apply in the same way as the other characteristics in universities (see p 26 of this AdvanceHE guidance for more details); its chief impact is in tackling discrimination in employment. As such, teachers and institutions are not required to do anything specific about marriage and civil partnership, but the usual rules apply; exhibiting prejudice or creating a hostile environment around this issue is to be absolutely avoided, irrespective of any personal beliefs (even ‘protected’ ones such as religion – the right to have beliefs does not entitle you legally to show prejudice against others).