A Staffordshire solicitors' firm is to host a seminar warning businesses of the dangers of engaging in office 'banter'.

Stoke-on-Trent-based Woolliscrofts Solicitors has joined forces with accountants RSM Tenon to organise the event, discussing the implications of the Equality Act 2010.

Woolliscrofts' employment law specialist David Ellis will discuss the main aspects of the Equality Act 2010 at the event, which takes place at the Best Western Moat House, Festival Park on Wednesday 9th March (8am-10am).

His 20-minute presentation will be followed by a slot on the options available to businesses in offering various employee benefits, for example salary sacrifice schemes, from RSM Tenon's Sam Davies.

David Ellis said: "The legislation applies to comments which could be construed as 'banter', and may lead to a tribunal which could cost the business many thousands of pounds.

"There is no maximum limit to tribunal awards under the new legislation. The employer would also need to add legal costs to their bill.

"People are more aware of their rights than ever, and in the current economic climate, could be more inclined to make a claim as payouts are often in the thousands."

The Equality Act 2010 came into force in October last year and brings all discrimination legislation under one umbrella, making it easier for individuals to take their employer to a tribunal if they have been discriminated against - even if it was meant light-heartedly.

This means any discriminatory comment related to race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability and other so-called 'protected characteristics', could be the basis of a tribunal claim.

Breakfast and refreshments will be provided for delegates. Places are limited to 40.

To book your place, contact Alison Niebieszczanski at Woolliscrofts Solicitors on 01782 204000 or acrump@woolliscrofts.co.uk.