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, will potentially begin on Wednesday 22 March and will end on the evening of Friday 21 April. This means Eid al-Fitr 2023 will be celebrated on Friday 21 April. As the commencement of Ramadan is confirmed by moon sighting, these dates may vary by one day.
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection and community.
Many workplaces have employees from different religious and non-religious backgrounds.
Other examples include:
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Diwali (Hindu)
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Guru Nanak (Sikh)
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Lent (Christian)
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Pesach/Passover (Jewish)
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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: