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The workforce in the UK is made up of many different types of people, and graduate employers are beginning to realise that their businesses are more likely to succeed if they embrace this diversity and use it to their advantage.
Clued-up employers know that to recruit the best employees they need to consider the entire pool of graduates, and not exclude people on the basis of their sex, race, disability or religion. And businesses that reflect the communities that they serve will be able to keep one step ahead of their competition.
While this is a promising trend, many religious people do still face discrimination in the workplace. A Home Office survey in 2001 showed that employment is one of the three areas of life (along with education and the media) where people from religious organisations are most likely to experience unfair treatment.
Here are some examples from the survey of people’s employment experiences:
- ’A muslim woman knew at the end of an interview that she would not get the job because, unlike the other candidates, she did not shake the interviewer’s hand. When she declined, he jolted back. He wants to hire someone he can relate to.’
- ’You’re seen to be anti-social if you don’t drink.’
- ’There is now more sensitivity to not making people work Sundays, but a portion of the congregation is always missing because some feel the need to support other staff, or due to the threat of losing their job or promotion.’
Good employers are taking steps to avoid cases like this. They encourage their workforce to communicate their needs, and put policies and staff training in place to raise awareness. This leads to a better working environment for all, and in return employees see increased efficiency and less absenteeism.
Individuals and organisations have argued over recent years that people need legal protection from discrimination due to their religion, just like they do for the race or sex. And following new legislation that came into effect in December 2003, religious discrimination in employment is illegal.
Find out more
Information, advice and support organisations
The following organisations will be able to offer information, advice and help.
Race for Opportunity
www.raceforopportunity.org.uk
Equality and Human Rights Commission
www.equalityhumanrights.com
