Woman rejected for job because of her 'strong Welsh accent'

A woman has been turned down for a job because of her “strong Welsh accent”.

Eluned Anderson, 22, did not get the role despite having "performed well throughout" the interview process, according to the rejection letter.

Lawyers are now offering to help the Liverpool University graduate after she posted the notice from the company on Twitter on Monday.

Anderson, from Cardiff, said it was “first time I’ve ever been told I’ve got a strong Welsh accent, so I suppose that’s a win?”

The message from the unnamed organisation said: “Hi Ellie, thank you so much for your time in applying for the role of ... and attending the interview at such short notice.

“We thought you were fantastic, and performed very well throughout. Your skill set would reflect well in the role.

“I’m sorry to say, however, that we have decided not to proceed with your application.

“It was decided that your strong Welsh accent, accompanied by your regional activities, would not suit the office environment.

“Thanks once again for your interest and time.”

Watch: Diversity and inclusion strategist talks about challenges of diversity in the workplace

Eluned received hundreds of messages of support, including from legal experts offering to argue her case.

Jamie Hanley, a partner at Pattison Brewer trade union law, messaged her: “Ellie – if you want my team at to look at this for you please send me a DM. Would be happy to assist.”

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Employment lawyer Deeba Sayed also offered to help, adding: “This is horrible and definitely discrimination under the Equality Act.”

Matthew Scott, Barrister at Pump Court Chambers, said it was “Unbelievable! And bonkers. And unlawful.”

SNP MSP Christina McKelvie tweeted: “When I was first elected, an opposition colleague suggested my language/accent was too common for Parliament & that I should ‘invest in elocution lessons’.

“I told him to ‘away an bile his heid!’ He didn’t raise it ever again. Ellie your accent is beautiful #RegionalAccents”

Eluned is Holocaust Education Trust's regional ambassador and has been active in the Labour movement.

She did not reveal the organisation that rejected her..