Religion and Belief Legislation

UK Religion and Belief Legislation Summary

A number of legislative acts provide protection for individuals on the grounds of religion and belief. The original Employment Equality (Religion and Belief) Regulations (2003) did not provide cover for individuals that are discriminated against in the areas of goods, services and facilities.

The new Racial and Religious Hatred Act (2006) amends the Public Order Act (1986) and ensures that protection is given against harm because of religious beliefs (or lack of).

The Equality Act (2006) has recently become an Act of Parliament. This act has items to protect individuals with regards to religion and belief in the areas of goods, services and facilities. In relation to HEIs, this means that services offered in areas such as accommodation and food may be subject to this legislation.

Religion and Belief Legislation - Full Documentation

The following is a list of documents that relate to religion and belief legislation. This list is in chronological order (oldest first).

• The Employment Equality (Religion or Belief) Regulations 2003
• Racial and Religious Hatred Act 2006
• The Equality Act 2006
• The Equality Act 2010

Help and Guidance on UK Legislation

Following are a number of guides to religion and belief that have been produced by The Subject Centre for Philosophy & Religious Studies at the Higher Education Academy:

• A Guide to Christianity
• A Guide to Hinduism
• A Guide to Islam
• A Guide to Judaism
• A Guide to Sikhism

In addition, the following documents may be of use:

• Employing People in Higher Education - The Equality Challenge Unit (ECU) 
• Religion and Belief in the Workplace - ACAS

  Religious Belief Policy