What protection do I have against religious discrimination?

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The Employment Rights Act introduces major reforms to UK employment law, with changes being implemented in stages from December 2025 through to 2027.

Employment Rights Act

Published date

20 Oct 2025

The Equality Act 2010 makes it unlawful for employers to treat workers less favourably than others because of religion or belief.

Workers are protected at all stages of employment, including recruitment and dismissal, against both direct discrimination and indirect discrimination.

Discrimination includes harassment and victimisation. There are some narrow exceptions called '“occupational requirements”, where the nature of the job requires a person of a particular religion or belief.

Note: This content is provided as general background information and should not be taken as legal advice or financial advice for your particular situation. Make sure to get individual advice on your case from your union, a source on our free help page or an independent financial advisor before taking any action.

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