Religion and belief

The Employment Equality (Religion or Belief) Regulations 2003 provide a certain level of protection for people on the grounds of religion and belief, but do not cover issues of incitement and protection against discrimination in the area of goods, facilities and services. Instead, these issues are covered by the provisions outlined below.

The Racial and Religious Hatred Act 2006 amends the Public Order Act 1986, to create offences involving stirring up hatred against persons on religious grounds. The legislation ensures that protection is provided to people against harm because of their religious beliefs or lack of religious beliefs.

The Equality Act 2006 introduces provisions to protect people on the grounds of religion and belief in the area of goods, facilities and services. This became law on the 6 April 2007.