Religion and belief
In the 2001UK census, just over three-quarters of the UK population identified with belonging to a religion. The majority of people (72%) identifying themselves as Christian, the next most common faith being Islam (2.7%), followed by Hinduism (1%). Also, 16 per cent stated that they have no religion (this category includes atheists, agnostics and heathens). Religion and belief can be related to ethnicity but the terms are not synonymous.
The Employment Equality (Religion or Belief) Regulations 2003 make it unlawful to discriminate against employees on the grounds of religion or belief. This includes protection for any religion, religious belief or similar philosophical belief (for example humanism), or a lack thereof.
Further extension of these regulations in the Equality Act 2006 make it unlawful to discriminate against people because of their religion or belief, or their lack of religion and belief, in respect of the provision of goods, facilities and services or premises and the exercising of public functions.
- Find out more about the legislation in Great Britain
- Find out more about the legislation in Northern Ireland
Conscientious objection and doctors' personal beliefs
BMA continues to support doctors' rights to opt out of lawful but morally sensitive procedures.
A briefing paper which presents the key findings from a focus group and medical students’ welfare survey on the impact of religion on students educational opportunities.
Religion in medicineReligion & belief links
Links to sources of further information related to religion and belief