Essential points

  • The principal legislation governing discrimination on the grounds of religion or belief is the Equality Act 2010.
  • Religion or belief discrimination can occur directly when someone is treated less favourably  because of their religion or religious or philosophical belief.
  • The discrimination can also be indirect  when they are disadvantaged by an unjustifiable policy,  practice or criteria.
  • Discrimination can also be in the form of harassment because of their religion, religious or philosophical belief which is a protected characteristic, or victimisation because an individual brings a claim or internal complaint about discriminatory treatment or supports another to do so.

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Please note

While every care has been taken in compiling this content, the CIPD cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. These notes are not intended to be a substitute for specific legal advice. 

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