Religion in the Workplace
Where does the balance lie between an employer respecting an employee’s religious views, but protecting others from upset and complaints if religion is preached in the workplace?
Michael Slade, mhl support’s Managing Director looks at a recent decision involving this very dilemma faced by Wandsworth Council.
Michael explained that “the hearing in June and July is reported to have ruled that Mr Amachree, a former Homelessness Prevention Officer was indeed “fairly dismissed” from his council job.
The applicant is reported to have worked there for 18 years before being dismissed following the council’s internal disciplinary procedure. He later lodged claims for unfair dismissal, religious discrimination and breach of contract.
Michael went on to explain that “the disciplinary procedure appears to have been begun shortly after the Council’s receipt of a complaint from an individual who had met with Mr Amachree. The individual is reported to have an incurable illness and was subjected to a “30 minute barrage” in which she was advised to “put her faith in God” and not to bother with doctors. The individual is reported to have been “shocked” and “upset” by Mr Amachree’s actions.”
Michael, whose team of Employment Law Specialists have advised on many cases such as this before explained, “This is not an uncommon situation by any means. Many employees will wish to preach their religious views in the workplace, but not everyone wants to listen.” Michael said “it’s a balancing act. On the one hand you have to balance the views of someone who preaches a particular faith against those views and beliefs shared by others. In our experience, having an equal opportunities policy is a must; making clear what is, and what is not acceptable religious behaviour is essential so that employees don’t’ feel discriminated against.” The cost of getting it wrong could be a costly religious discrimination claim. If you are faced with a similar situation, please call one of the specialist advisers today. If you are an existing client, please call us on 08453 100 999 quoting your PCN number. If however you are not yet a client of mhl, but are interested in learning more about the matter above, or the services mhl provide, please call Katy Vaughan today on 08453 100 600 for further details.
This News Release is intended to provide a general overview and discussion of the subject matter. It is not however, intended to give advice or to act as a substitute to taking legal advice from our Support Line in any specific situation. Mhl accepts no liability or responsibility for the information contained within this news release. If you would like specific advice about this subject matter, please contact one of the Employment Law Team today on 08453 100 999.
