Religion, Religious Beliefs & Philosophical Beliefs in the Workplace - Who is Protected?

Introduction

Religion and belief discrimination in the workplace has been unlawful since 2010, when religion and belief was enshrined as a protected characteristic in the Equality Act 2010.

The Equality Act prohibits direct discrimination, indirect discrimination and harassment in the workplace relating to religion, religious belief and philosophical belief. It also prohibits victimisation against employees who have taken steps under the Equality Act.

People's views about emotive matters such as Brexit, COVID-19, the environment, immigration etc., are becoming increasingly polarised, and disagreements about conflicting opinions can sometimes become toxic.

Aimed at employment lawyers and HR professionals, this new virtual classroom seminar will examine the very latest case law, including detailed consideration of the EAT's 2022 judgment in Forstater v CGD Europe, and will consider who is protected.

Expert speaker Emma Tegerdine will also offer guidance on how employment tribunals have navigated this tricky area of law.

What you will learn

This live and interactive session will cover:

• The different types of discrimination
• The definition of religion, religious belief, and philosophical belief
• Gender critical beliefs
• Beliefs around COVID-19 and vaccination
• Veganism
• Political beliefs
• Scientific beliefs
• Lack of belief
• The manifestation of religious beliefs - dress codes and appearance
• Time off for prayers, days of rest and religious holidays
• Proselytising
• Discriminatory religious beliefs