The 2011 Census shows that the religious make-up of people living in Shropshire, Telford & Wrekin is:
|
66.0% |
|
0.5% |
|
0.3% |
|
0.4% |
|
0.3% |
|
24.3% |
|
0.0% |
|
7.1% |
|
0.8% |
|
|
The Equality Act 2010 provides protection against discrimination on the grounds of religion or belief. People’s religious beliefs and traditions are important to Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service as an employer and as a service provider.
As an employer we need to be aware of and make suitable arrangements for our employees’ religious practices while they are at work.
As a provider of services, we need to be sensitive to beliefs and traditions that may affect the way we are seen by different communities, and which affect the way we provide services ‘on the ground’; for example providing first aid, and entering people’s homes.
People may have significant non-religious beliefs, that are also protected under the Act. Such beliefs are protected if they are philosophical beliefs that included a weighty and substantial aspect of human life and behaviour. Examples include atheism and humanism.
Useful links
Local Interfaith Forums
Interfaith forums and groups exist in South Shropshire, Shrewsbury (http://shrewsburyurc.co.uk/wp/interfaith-forum/) and Telford & Wrekin (https://www.interfaith.org.uk/involved/contact/telford-and-wrekin-interfaith-group-twig)
Interfaith forums provide an opportunity for dialogue and discussion, meetings on religious topics; awareness raising; promoting good relations and community cohesion; social gatherings; speakers for schools, and advice and assistance to public bodies. They are open to people of all faiths who share an interest in working together for better understanding and action based on their beliefs.
