In the UK there are a wide range of different religions that both employers and employees may need to have some understanding of and how they may occasionally affect the workplace.
One of the holiest months of the Islamic calendar, Ramadan, is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, spiritual reflection, and community.
Muslims follow a lunar calendar and Ramadan is expected to begin Friday 28 February 2025 or Saturday 1 March 2025, lasting for 29 or 30 days depending on the sighting of the crescent moon.
Many workplaces have employees from different religious and non-religious backgrounds.
Other examples include:
- Diwali (Hindu)
- Guru Nanak (Sikh)
- Lent (Christian)
- Pesach/Passover (Jewish)
- Vesak (Buddhist)
Encouraging greater awareness and understanding of these backgrounds can be rewarding, particularly in terms of team building. It can also help to reduce the chance of misunderstanding resulting in complaints or disciplinary action.
For further advice and guidance please select the following links:
- Religion or belief in the workplace | EHRC (equalityhumanrights.com)
- Acas guide on religion or belief discrimination | Acas