Guide to World Religions and Beliefs
From Atheism to Zoroastrianism
The increasingly cosmopolitan nature of UK society means that employers are often presented with situations in which an understanding of the religion or belief of their employees is required. As just one indication of how the make up of society is evolving, the chart below shows the growth of the Muslim, Sikh and Hindu populations in England and Wales over a forty year period to 2001.
Such knowledge will help employers avoid discrimination against particular groups (for example, in devising dress codes that permit the wearing of items of central significance in a particular religion) and achieving fair solutions that balance the demands of different groups in the workplace (for example, in setting holiday arrangements which take account of religious festivals as well as the needs of those with other commitments).
This guide gives a concise description of the major religions and belief systems which may be most often encountered in the UK workplace, and the impact that they are likely to have on aspects of employment, including:
- Festivals, holidays & leave requirements
- Prayer times and requirements
- Dress codes
- Food and drink
Other topics are included where these are of particular relevance.
This guide aims to give both line managers and human resource practitioners a better understanding of the religion or belief of their colleagues, so that they can, where practical, accommodate their needs at work. It may also help in identifying possible areas of difficulty and minimising negative impacts where an organisation's policy or its business needs do not permit such accommodation.
We have provided links to more information on each religion or belief system included in the guide and would encourage you always to find out more (for example, by checking with appropriate religious organisations) before making policy decisions.
The religions and beliefs included within this guide are:
- Atheism
- Baha'i
- Buddhism
- Candomblé
- Christianity
- Hinduism
- Islam
- Jainism
- Jehovah's Witnesses
- Judaism
- Mormonism
- Paganism
- Rastafari
- Santeria
- Shinto
- Sikhism
- Spiritualism
- Taoism
- Unitarianism
- Zoroastrianism
Should you require information on a religion or belief system not included in the guide, please contact us.
THE FULL GUIDE IN PDF
Further information
BBC is a good source of information and we have included other links at the end of each page. These links have been included to provide further information but the EFB cannot be responsible for the content and authenticity of these external sites. Please contact us if you have any questions or suggestions about external links.