Quitting a job is never easy, especially when the decision stems from unfair treatment in the workplace. Whether you’ve experienced bullying, discrimination, or poor management, resigning under such circumstances can be emotionally challenging. However, it’s crucial to handle your resignation professionally to protect your reputation and maintain positive relationships in your industry.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to write a resignation letter due to unfair treatment, including what qualifies as unfair treatment, steps to take before resigning, and tips for maintaining a professional tone. We’ll also provide ready-to-use templates and examples to help you craft a clear and respectful resignation letter.
What Is a Resignation Letter Due to Unfair Treatment?
A resignation letter due to unfair treatment is a formal document that notifies your employer of your decision to leave the company, citing unfair treatment as the primary reason. This letter serves as a record of your experience and communicates your reasons for resigning to your manager, supervisor, or HR department. 
While it’s important to be honest about your reasons for leaving, the letter should remain professional and avoid inflammatory language. This ensures you leave on good terms and maintain your professional integrity.
What Qualifies as Unfair Treatment at Work?
Unfair treatment in the workplace can take many forms, including:
- Bullying or harassment
- Discrimination (e.g., based on race, gender, age, religion, disability, or pregnancy)
- Poor management practices
- Nepotism or favoritism
- Retaliation after filing a complaint
- Unresolved salary or working hour disputes
If you’ve experienced any of these issues and feel your concerns haven’t been addressed, resigning may be the best course of action.
Steps to Take Before Writing Your Resignation Letter
Before submitting your resignation, consider these steps to ensure you’ve exhausted all options:
1. Speak to the Human Resources Department
HR is responsible for addressing workplace complaints. Share your concerns with them and give them an opportunity to resolve the issue. If they fail to take action, you can proceed with your resignation.
2. Meet with Your Manager
If your workplace doesn’t have an HR department or you’re unsatisfied with their response, arrange a meeting with your manager. They may be able to escalate the issue or provide a resolution.
3. Decide How to Proceed
If the situation remains unresolved, it’s time to write your resignation letter. Be clear about your reasons for leaving and whether you intend to pursue legal action.
How to Write a Resignation Letter Due to Unfair Treatment
Follow these tips to craft a professional and respectful resignation letter:
1. Use a Neutral and Civil Tone
Even if you’re frustrated, avoid emotional or accusatory language. A calm and professional tone will help you maintain your reputation.
2. State Your Reason for Resigning
Clearly explain that you’re resigning due to unfair treatment, but keep your explanation concise. Avoid going into excessive detail or naming specific individuals.
3. Include Your Last Working Day
Specify your final working day, adhering to your notice period as outlined in your contract. If you wish to leave immediately, state this clearly.
4. Mention the Positives
Balance your letter by acknowledging positive aspects of your experience, such as skills you’ve gained or relationships you’ve built.
5. Outline Next Steps
Offer to assist with the transition, such as training a replacement or completing pending tasks. If you plan to pursue legal action, mention this briefly.
Resignation Letter Template for Unfair Treatment
Here’s a template to help you structure your letter:
[Your Full Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient’s Name]
[Their Job Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
Dear [Recipient’s Name],
Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as [Your Job Title] at [Company Name], effective [Last Working Day].
While I have greatly valued the opportunity to work at [Company Name] and have enjoyed [mention positive aspects, e.g., “collaborating with the team” or “developing my skills”], I have made the difficult decision to resign due to ongoing unfair treatment in the workplace. Despite raising my concerns with [HR/your manager], the issue remains unresolved, and I no longer feel comfortable continuing my employment.
During my notice period, I am happy to assist with [specific tasks, e.g., “training my replacement” or “completing pending projects”] to ensure a smooth transition. Please let me know how I can be of help.
Thank you for the opportunity to be part of [Company Name]. I wish you and the team continued success in the future.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Signature, if submitting a hard copy]
Resignation Letter Examples
Example 1: With Notice Period
Betty White
202 Harfield Court
Hammersmith, London, W2 7ET
betty.white@email.com
07899344211
21 June 2022
Phoebe Wilson
Marketing Manager
Best Imagine
10 Whitefield Street, London, SW2 7OT
Dear Phoebe,
I am writing to inform you of my resignation as a Marketing Executive at Best Imagine, effective 11 July 2022, in accordance with my contract’s notice period.
While I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Best Imagine and have learned a great deal from you and the team, I regret to say that I can no longer continue my employment due to ongoing unfair treatment. Despite raising my concerns with HR on multiple occasions, the issue remains unresolved, and I feel unsupported in this matter.
During my notice period, I am happy to assist with training my replacement and ensuring a smooth handover of my responsibilities.
Thank you for the opportunity to be part of Best Imagine. I wish you and the team all the best in the future.
Yours sincerely,
Betty White
Example 2: Immediate Resignation
Betty White
202 Harfield Court
Hammersmith, London, W2 7ET
betty.white@email.com
07899344211
21 June 2022
Phoebe Wilson
Marketing Manager
Best Imagine
10 Whitefield Street, London, SW2 7OT
Dear Phoebe,
Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from my position as Marketing Executive at Best Imagine, effective immediately.
Unfortunately, I have experienced ongoing unfair treatment in the workplace, which I have raised with HR on multiple occasions. As the issue remains unresolved, I no longer feel comfortable continuing my employment.
I apologize for any inconvenience my immediate departure may cause and am happy to provide support during the transition if needed.
Thank you for the opportunity to work at Best Imagine. I wish you and the team continued success.
Yours sincerely,
Betty White
Conclusion: Leave with Dignity
Resigning due to unfair treatment is a difficult but sometimes necessary step. By following the steps and templates above, you can ensure your resignation letter is professional, respectful, and leaves a positive impression.
Remember, your well-being and career growth are paramount. If you’re ready to move on, use this guide to craft a resignation letter that reflects your professionalism and sets you up for future success.
Call-to-Action:
Need more career advice? Check out our free resignation letter templates and job search guides to help you navigate your next steps with confidence!
