Labour Research March 2005

Equality news

New advice for employers of Jews

The Board of Deputies of British Jews has published a new pamphlet giving guidance on the legal framework and workplace arrangements affecting the employment of Jewish people.

Employment - a practical guide for employers and Jewish employees points out that the level of religious observance varies among Jews of different affiliations, as do the requirements of Jewish employees. The guide deals principally with observant Jews, whose requirements are greater.

As well as the relevant law, the guide covers the Sabbath and festival observances, food, clothing and bereavement.

It says that, to an employer with no experience of working with practising Jews, "there may appear to be obstacles to employing them. In practice, difficulties can often be diminished or even eliminated."

For a copy of the pamphlet, telephone 020 7543 5400.