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In December 2003, the Employment Equality (Religion or Belief) Regulations 2003 was introduced to protect against discrimination on the grounds of religion, religious belief or other philosophical belief in employment and vocational training. ACAS (the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service) has produced a guide for employers and employees on religion and belief in the workplace to support the above legislation. NHS Employers is already supporting around half of all organisations in the NHS to undergo a change management process whereby equalities and diversity are mainstreamed, through the 'Positively Diverse' initiative. This over-arching programme is intended to facilitate the recruitment, development and retention of a workforce that reflects the community it serves. An action plan, 'Equal Values: Equal Outcomes', launched in 2005, specifically addresses discrimination and harassment faced by doctors and dentists. In addition, NHS Employers is now spearheading a project across the NHS which offers both a rationale and working definition of 'Positive Action', case studies and practical guidance. This aims to support a range of lawful actions among targeted groups that have previously experienced disadvantage, or that have been subject to discriminatory policies and practices, or that are under represented in the workforce. The Department of Health (DH) has also published a best practice guide for managers and chaplaincy-spiritual care managers. It sets a framework for the context and provision of chaplaincy-spiritual care services throughout the NHS and offers guidance about providing spiritual care that is equal, just, humane and respectful. To counter the scarcity of guidance available on religious issues, the DH has published a guide which explains why board level action on equality, fair treatment and social inclusion is important for staff and patients. It provides information about supporting NHS frameworks and policies, as well as legal obligations and a checklist of priority areas for action. Last reviewed 16 Dec 2005 |
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