Religion and Belief

What the Law Says

At work, it is illegal for an employer to discriminate against you because of your religion or belief. However, there is no law covering discrimination on these grounds in other situations.

"Religion or belief" is defined as "any religion, religious belief or similar philosophical belief". It does not, however, include philosophical or political beliefs unless they are similar to a religious belief.

Through the Employment Equality (Religion or Belief) Regulations 2003, it is unlawful for an employer to discriminate in a number of ways. These will include all stages of the employment relationship including in recruitment, promotion, the terms and conditions of employment and in dismissing.

The Regulations cover direct discrimination, which is 'less favourable treatment' on the grounds of religion or belief. They will also provide protection from harassment and victimisation on grounds of religion or belief. In addition, they prohibit indirect discrimination, which means imposing or requiring any practice that, although of general application, puts members of one religion or belief at a particular disadvantage. For example, a requirement that all employees must work on a particular day which could or should not be adhered to by a religious group would put members of the group at a disadvantage and could amount to unlawful religious discrimination.

Contacts

If you have been discriminated against, harassed or abused because of your religion or beliefs, there are a number of options open to you:

1. In an emergency, dial 999. If there is no immediate danger, you can report the incident to the Hate Crime team at the West Mercia Police on 08457 444888, or call into any police station. Alternatively, you can report a hate crime on-line by visiting http://www.report-it.org.uk/. The Police will take your complaint seriously, and thoroughly investigate it.
2. Report it to the Race Equality Development Officer who can help in a variety of ways:
   • Offer free and independent help and advice
   • Provide a local view of equality issues
   • Put you in contact with other agencies and act as an intermediary
   • Put you in contact with others in the community who have experienced similar problems
   • Support any legal action in court or an industrial tribunal
   You can contact him on 01432 267307 or e-mail equality@herefordshire.gov.uk.
3. The Equality & Human Rights Commission can provide support and advice. Contact them on 0845 604 6610 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm), e-mail info@equalityhumanrights.com, or visit their website at www.equalityhumanrights.com.
4. The Citizens Advice Bureau can give you advice about what to do. In some cases, they may also be able to give you legal assistance and help you to bring your case before a court or tribunal.
5. If your complaint relates to working for, or services provided by, Herefordshire Council, you should report it immediately to the Corporate Diversity Team on 01432 267307 or e-mail diversity@herefordshire.gov.uk.