Dialogues in the workplace
Workplaces are increasingly taking the role of religion in people’s lives more seriously.
For example, see the Equality and Human Rights Commission's guidance. As a result of this, a number of forums in work places are developing, many encouraged and supported by the Employers’ Network for Equality and Inclusion.
These can enable dialogue between members of staff and leadership teams about how best to support the religious needs of employees in a constructive way that enhances the working environment.
In some cases, employees may talk with each other about their faith traditions and non-religious beliefs – what is important to them, how they can mutually support each other and how they can grow in understanding colleagues with whom they share much of their week. Some work places, such as Leicester City Council have faith based staff groups which sometimes talk or carry out projects together.
Further Resources
IFN has produced three resources that may be useful in work place inter faith dialogue, and these can be downloaded at the bottom of this page.
An IFN blog providing guidance on religion in the workplace can be found here: https://www.interfaith.org.uk/resources/workplaces. It was originally created by IFN's Assistant Director as a guest blog for the Employers' Network on Diversity and Inclusion during Inter Faith Week 2021.
Training is available to support dialogue in a number of contexts, visit: https://www.interfaith.org.uk/involved/find-a-national-initiative to see those provided by IFN member bodies.
