High heel policy
High heel policy is a name given to various inhouse dress code policies whereby employers can "demand that female members of staff wear heels,". The height of the footwear ranges from 2 to 4 inches.[1] The rule was scrapped when a 27-year old woman were sent home unpaid for refusing to wear high heel shoes.[2]
According to Frances O'Grady, general secretary of the British Trades Union Congress, a dress code including high heels "reeks of sexism". "High heels should be a choice, not a requirement," she added.[3]
Controversy
The requirement of wearing 2-4 inches high heel shoes demanded by UK firms faced criticisms when, Nicola Thorp, the 27-year old actress and part-time receptionist, refused to"buy a pair of heels as directed by a supervisor" and was sent home unpaid. She then launched a petition to make it illegal for companies to force female staff to wear makeup and high heels. The petition gathered over 100,000 signatures which means that members of Parliament "must consider it for Parliamentary debate". Also, The petition was signed by Conservative MPs Margot James and Caroline Dinenage.[1]
References
- ^ a b Yorke, Harry (12 May 2016). "MPs back temp worker's campaign to end 'sexist' high heel policy". The Telegraph. Retrieved 13 May 2016.
- ^ Johnston, Chris (12 May 2016). "Woman's high-heel petition receives 100,000-plus signatures". the Guardian. Retrieved 13 May 2016.
- ^ Bates, Claire; Parkinson, Justin (11 May 2016). "Is it legal to force women to wear high heels at work?". BBC News. Retrieved 13 May 2016.