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Policing Diversity online
Welcome
On this page:
Welcome
How to use the site
Welcome to Policing Diversity Online
Policing Diversity Online is the updated version of the policing diversity handbook that was last published in 2002. This new version has been prepared in the spirit of the original, but because it is a website, it can offer a wider scope of resources such as links and contacts to other sites, both internal and external. A hard copy of any page or pages may be printed off.
The website is intended as a working tool for police officers and police staff to support best practise in their day-to-day working life. It will be regularly updated, amended and extended to meet the needs of its users.
There are six main sections which correspond to the six diversity strands.
The material has been prepared under the guidance of the six strands: Age, Disability, Faith, Gender, LGBT (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender), Race/Nationality. A Met-wide questionnaire was circulated to police officers and staff, and boroughs were consulted as IAGs and members of the communities that are included on the site.
Everyone should be regarded as an individual with his or her own needs, beliefs and cultural background and is entitled to be treated with respect and dignity. With the preparation of this site, it became evident when consulting different leaders and members of the same faith, nationality, age-group, gender, etc that while there is common ground, everyone has their own ideas and interpretations. There is no simple division of the individual into any particular group. Each case is complex, with the possibility of a person fitting into several different categories: gender, faith, nationality, disability, sexual orientation, etc. But in carrying out best practice, it is hoped that Policing Diversity Online can provide information that will support and improve the service that the Met can offer.
This is only a beginning. The intention is for the site to develop organically as required. Information can be removed or added to when appropriate and it is hoped that this will be done with the input of the users of the site to make it as useful and relevant as possible.
Policing Diversity is produced by the Diversity and Citizen Focus Directorate: Diversity Learning and Development Branch
How to use the site
The site has been designed to keep things as simple as possible. It is set out as follows:
LEFT HAND COLUMN - THE MENU
Click on any of the Strands (ie Age, Disability, etc)
Then Click on any of the subsections that are relevant to your needs
RIGHT HAND COLUMN
(Click on any of the following for direct access)
Legislation
(links to Laws relevant to the page)
Links and Contacts
(relevant to the section)
Met Police Support Associations
(direct links to contacts of each Association)
Borough Diversity Contacts
(a unique comprehensive list of all Borough Operational Command Units (BOCU))
Contact Us
(For sending your comments, contributions, etc)
MAIN BODY OF PAGE
This contains the main text.
In certain places in the text there are boxes topped with a red strip.
Example
These contain information for use when dealing with various situations such as visits to homes and religious buildings, custody protocol, first contact, etc.
Policing Diversity Website Disclaimer
Any links to other websites do not constitute an endorsement or an approval by the Metropolitan Police Service of any products, services, policies or opinions of the organisation or individual.
This disclaimer and exclusion shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English Law under the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.
Age
On this page:
Introduction
Acknowledgements
Media articles
Welcome
…to the Age section of the site
Please select the topic you require from the left-hand menu and related legislation, contacts and links on the right of the page.
If you wish to contact us about this section please select the "Contact Us" option on the right of the page.
Acknowledgements
Many thanks to all those who have so generously helped in the preparation of this section.
Media articles
The most recent media articles can be found in the What's New section.
Middle-class children resentful at being pushed to succeed, poll shows
31/10/08
View article from: The Telegraph
Myths 'convince parents their children's drinking is safe'
30/10/08
View article from: The Telegraph
Ask parliament, not courts, whether your husband can help you end your life
30/10/08
View article from: The Guardian
The right to die with dignity (comment)
30/10/08
View article from: The Guardian
Child services reforms after Climbié death are hampering efforts, says watchdog
29/10/08
View article from: The Guardian
How to give your child a better start in life: delay parenthood
17/10/08
View article from: The Guardian
Knife sentencing 'not effective'
16/10/08
View article from: The BBC
Tests scrapped for 14-year-olds
14/10/08
View article from: The BBC
Millions' of UK young in poverty
29/09/08
View article from: The BBC
Children's web watchdog launched
29/09/08
View article from: The BBC
Children allowed to drink at home more likely to develop alcohol problems, study suggests
29/09/08
View article from: The Telegraph
Almost 10,000 centenarians now living in England and Wales
29/09/08
View article from: The Telegraph
Police lose 'offensive' walking stick after confiscating from pensioner
29/09/08
View article from: The Telegraph
Pensioner benefit reforms criticised
26/09/08
View article from: The Guardian
Author's novel invitation to home
11/08/08
View article from: The BBC …or… Metro
Alternatives to Prison: Young Offenders
23/06/08
View article from: TheyWorkForYou.com
Amar Aslam, 17, beaten to death in weekend of violence
27/05/08
View article from: The Times
'I've got kids who sleep with knives under their pillows'
27/05/08
View article from: The Independent
Children forced to rely on 'grey pound' for start in life
27/05/08
View article from: The Independent
Social services called to account as girl, 7, starves to death
25/05/08
View article from: The Independent
Older People Sick At The Thought Of Their Future, According To Landmark Report, UK
20/05/08
View article from: Medical News Today
Abuse Of Older People Nation's 'Secret Shame', UK
28/03/08
View article from: Medical News Today
Six children quizzed over web fights
28/03/08
View article from: The Independent
Boy, 15, murdered student 'because she was a Goth'
28/03/08
View article from: The Independent
Balls to give teachers extra powers to search pupils
28/03/08
View article from: The Independent
Employee fired for being too young
07/03/08
View article from: Chronicle Live
Help The Aged Call For Equal Access To Healthcare, UK
27/02/08
View article from: Medical News Today
Employees 'pressurised to retire before 65'
13/02/08
View article from: The Guardian
Many elderly denied care in their own homes
28/01/08
View article from: The Telegraph
Wii consoles used in virtual PE
28/01/08
View article from: The BBC
Children of nine may get sex advice packs
28/01/08
View article from: The Telegraph
Children for sale: UK's new slave trade
27/01/08
View article from: The Telegraph
Don't treat the old and unhealthy, say doctors
27/01/08
View article from: The Telegraph
Alcohol-related deaths have doubled in 15 years, report says
26/01/08
View article from: The Guardian
Binge drinking in 20s takes its toll in later life
26/01/08
View article from: The Telegraph
Age Discrimination Cases Set to Increase
4/01/08
View article from: OnRec.com
Prime Minister takes charge of battle against binge-drinking
2/01/08
View article from: The Independent
National service could fight yob culture, says Cameron
19/01/08
View article from: The Independent
Prime Minister takes charge of battle against binge-drinking
9/1/08
View article from: The Independent
"If anyone called me a fudge, I'd hit them"
4/1/08
View article from: The Times
BBC ageism a myth, says new face of 'Crimewatch'
2/1/08
View article from: The Independent
Lower school leaving age proposed
15/12/07
View article from: The BBC
Manslaughter verdicts quashed for boys who stoned pensioner
14/12/07
View article from: The Times
Help for special needs children 'matter of class, race and gender'
14/12/07
View article from: The Guardian
Deprived UK children 'still trapped by poverty'
13/12/07
View article from: The Telegraph
Banks to keep age discrimination
8/12/07
View article from: The BBC
Head to head: Age discrimination
20/11/07
View article from: Personnel Today
Boys as young as 12 abuse steroids to impress girls, warn drug experts
30/11/07
View article from: The Independent
Age Discrimination
Ageism, affecting both the young and old, is the most widely experienced prejudice in Britain, according to the first major study into age discrimination*. The survey found that ageism now eclipses racism, sexism and discrimination based on disability in terms of frequency.
The only age group not to experience ageism are those people aged between 35 and 44, who are too old for negative youth stereotyping and too young for prejudice based on advancing years, the study found.
Those who took part in the study believed that older people are viewed as friendlier than younger people, while younger people were perceived as more competent and capable than older people.
As the average age of the British population increases, it is believed that the combating of age discrimination will become increasingly important.
The report was sponsored by Age Concern.
A copy can be found on their website.
* Dominic Abrams, Professor of Social Psychology, University of Kent
Older People
For the purposes of this section, "older people" are defined as over 60 years of age, though it is recognized that while some people are 'old' at 55, others remain 'young' at 80.
Please select the topic you require from the left-hand menu and related legislation, contacts and links on the right of the page.
If you wish to contact us about this section please select the "Contact Us" option on the right of the page.
Retirement
From 1 October 2006, the following has applied:
A retirement age for employees may be set by employers, but it must be at or above 65 - the national default.
Details of police Pensions can be found at the following links.
For Police Officers
For Police Staff
Compulsory retirement cannot be imposed on employees who are younger than 65 unless it can be objectively justified.
Employees must be notified in writing, 6-12 months before their retirement date.
Written requests from employees to work beyond retirement age must be considered by their employer, although the employer is not compelled to agree to the request.
Older people in London In the Census of 2001, London is shown to be one of two areas in Britain with particularly low proportions of older people. The other is Northern Ireland. Of the seven Local Authority Districts with less than 12 per cent of people above state pension age in 2001, five were in London and two in Northern Ireland. Nevertheless there are currently some 1.2 million people aged 60+ in London.
Older People and Crime Surveys throughout the world have shown consistently that:
Crimes against older people Crimes against older people can be divided into two broad categories:
Special issues Growth in numbers of older people An important fact about older people is that their numbers are steadily increasing. This is especially true for people aged 80 and over. Poverty The largest group of people in poverty are those over 65 years of age (60 years for non-married women). Some may be asset rich by owning their own homes, but have little or no income at their disposal. Living alone Over a third of older people in London live alone. This gets more common at more advanced ages and especially for women, who live longer than men. Diversity Older people are diverse in the same ways as the population in general. Some aspects are visible - for example the proportion of older people from BME groups is growing steadily. Others are less visible: London is thought to have a large number of older gay men and lesbians although there are few if any statistics. Medication Older people are more at risk of accidentally harming themselves by taking potentially lethal dangerous mixtures of medicines. Many hospital admissions related to adverse drug reactions involve older people . "This has been a problem for a long time. GPs and pharmacists should be giving elderly people more information, as it can be quite confusing when you have lots of pill to take and they are being changed…If elderly people ended up in hospital because of adverse reactions, the situation could become more complicated", he added. (Jonathan Ellis, policy manager at Help the Aged) Older people and the police
There is no one "correct" way for police officers to relate to all older individuals since they are as diverse as society in general. Middle Age Though crime and discrimination mainly involve the young and the elderly, the middle-aged have issues of their own. Criminal menopause There is a condition identified in the US that is known as: 'criminal menopause' defined as the stage in life during which an older, habitual criminal loses interest in crime, or when an older prisoner no longer poses any threat to society. "As they grow more feeble and sick, geriatric prisoners also become less dangerous. At some point in life, scholars agree, a sort of "criminal menopause" sets in and felons grow less impetuous, less prone to violence. Though there are famous exceptions, national studies show that only about 2% of men paroled after 55 return to prison." (Jenifer Warren, "The Graying of the Prisons," Los Angeles Times, June 9, 2002) Young people and infants Please select the topic you require from the left-hand menu and related legislation, contacts and links on the right of the page. If you wish to contact us about this section please select the "Contact Us" option on the right of the page.
Age and Law On this page:
Age can be a factor when it comes to determining whether or not something is a crime. There are minimum ages for drinking, having sex, using prescribed drugs, driving and working, etc. Alcohol Under 18: 12.6 Section 145 of the 2003 Licensing Act makes it an offence to permit children under the age of 16 unaccompanied by an adult (that is a person aged 18 or over) to be present on premises open for the supply of alcohol for consumption there and being used exclusively or primarily for the supply of alcohol for consumption on those premises under the authorisation of a premises licence, club premises certificate or temporary event notice. In addition, it is an offence to permit the presence of children under 16 who are not accompanied by an adult (that is a person aged 18 or over) between midnight and 5 am to be on premises supplying alcohol for consumption on the premises under the authorisation of any premises licence, club premises certificate or temporary event notice. Shops may not sell alcoholic drinks of any kind to those under 18. The onus is upon sellers to satisfy themselves that the customer is 18, and may asked for evidential proof. They have the right to refuse to sell an item to anyone who they believe is underage unless the customer is able to prove otherwise. Under 18 but over 16: When drinking in a bar or restaurant with a meal those under 18 but over 16 are permitted to buy beer, cider or perry (like cider but made with pears). But a snack such as a bag of crisps does not count as a meal. Under 18 but over 14: This age-group can go into a bar at the bar staff's discretion, but cannot drink alcohol. There is no offence where a 16 or 17 year-old consumes beer, wine or cider with a table meal in circumstances where he is accompanied by a person aged 18 or over. This only applies while a table meal is being consumed. It would not be sufficient for a person to claim that bar snacks amounted to a table meal. (12.16 Under the 2003 Licensing Act) An identity card provided by the Portman Group, an organisation that works to prevent alcohol abuse by young people, helps those over 18 to prove they are old enough to buy alcohol. Alcohol and babies The old remedy for reducing a baby's teething pains by dipping a finger in brandy and rubbing it over the baby's gums is illegal, as it is a criminal offence to give alcohol to any child under the age of 5. Solvents Under 18 It is illegal for a shopkeeper to sell anyone under the age of 18 solvents such as glue, paint, aerosols etc, if they believe the intention is to use them as stimulants. A shopkeeper is therefore entitled to refuse to sell under-18s such products. It is illegal to drive if high on solvents just as it is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Tobacco Under 16: At present it is illegal for shopkeepers to sell cigarettes or other tobacco products to anyone under the age of 16 cigarettes or other tobacco products. The government has raise the legal minimum age at which tobacco can be bought in England and Wales from 16 to 18. Prescription drugs Under 18: It is illegal for an adult to give someone under 18 one of their prescription drugs. Therefore, if medication such as valium (diazepam) or other tranquilizing drugs are offered to calm a young person's nerves before an interview or driving test, etc.the adult giving the tablet is committing an offence. Sex It is legal to have sex in England, Wales and Scotland at the age of 16 for a man and a woman or for two men. There is no specific age of consent for sex between women.
Work rules for young people Young people are of compulsory school age up to the last Friday in June in the academic year of their 16th birthday, after which is the Mandatory School Leaving Age (MSLA) and the child can apply for their National Insurance Number and may work full time.
Wages From 1 October 2007 the national minimum wage for adults became £4.60 an hour for 18 to 21 year-olds, and £3.40 for 16 to 17 year-olds. This is known as the development rate. 22 year-olds and over receive the adult rate of £5.52 an hour. The development rate can also apply to workers aged 22 and above during their first six months in a new job with a new employer while receiving accredited training. Working age The youngest age a young person can work is 13 years old, with the exception of children involved in television, theatre, modelling or similar activities. If a young person is offered work in these areas, they will need to get a performance licence. Performance licences are issued by the local authority. Before granting a licence the local authority will liaise with the head teacher of the young person's school to ensure that the child's education will not suffer should that licence be granted. Chaperoning A young person taking part in a performance - which can include TV, film, theatre, sporting activities or modelling - will require chaperoning. Chaperones are licensed by the local authority. Young people may not work:
Term time work During term time children may work a maximum of 12 hours per week, of which:
School holidays During school holidays 13 to 14 year olds may work a maximum of 25 hours per week, of which:
During school holidays 15 to 16 year olds may work a maximum of 35 hours per week, of which:
Employers Employers must inform the education department of their local council that they have employed a school-aged child. If satisfied with the arrangements, the council will issue the child with an employment permit. A child is not insured without one. Children do not need a work permit for work experience that his/her school arranges. Local by-laws list the jobs that 13 year olds can do. No 13 year old can work in a job that doesn't appear on the list. Local by-laws may place further restrictions on the hours and conditions of work and the nature of employment. For help and advice or to apply for a work permit contact the education department of your local council or education welfare service. School attendance Leaving School In England and Wales, a young person can leave school for good on the last Friday in June in the school year in which he or she turns 16 or will turn 16 before the start of the next school year. Truancy If a child of school age is caught out of school without a good reason when he or she is supposed to be there, the person responsible for that child is guilty of committing an offence. The likely punishment would be a fine and having to attend a class on parenting skills. Youth Inclusion Programme (YIP) The Met's Youth Inclusion Programme seeks to reduce offending, truancy, and exclusion in disadvantaged neighbourhoods. The projects do this by providing targeted assistance and support to the 13-16 year olds at most risk of offending, truancy or exclusion. Click on the link in the first line of this paragraph for direct access to the website. Crime by young people A young offender is someone who has been convicted of an offence between the age of 10 and 20. In England and Wales, as in most of the world, young people are treated differently to adults by the criminal justice system. The law views anyone who has broken the law as being responsible for their own actions and, therefore, open to prosecution, from the age of 10. This is younger than for most other European countries. However in Britain it is still recognised that young people have special needs and so they are dealt with by the Youth Justice System until the age of 21. An estimated seven million offences are committed by people under 18 years of age each year. However, the great majority of young people who commit offences do so infrequently and a small 'hard core' of persistent offenders is responsible for a disproportionate amount of crime. Home Office research has found that about 3% of young offenders commit 26% of youth crime. Even given these statistics, the majority of crime is not committed by young people. In 2000, 88% of detected crime was committed by over 18s, and most of those were over 21. Although there has been some difficulty in interpreting the available statistics, crime committed by young people appears to have been falling for some years. Between 1992 and 2001, 10-17 year olds convicted or cautioned fell by 21%. Kinds of crime Most 'youth crime' is about anti-social behaviour, street crime or violence. Offences committed by young people are usually property crimes with theft, handling stolen goods, burglary, fraud or forgery and criminal damage making up more than two thirds of all youth crime. Despite media attention on violent offending, few cautions or convictions relate to violence. Growing Out of Crime The peak age of offending is 18 for boys and 14 for girls, after which criminal activity usually declines. There is a particularly sharp decline for criminal damage crimes and violent offences. The positive effects of personal and social development, completing education, getting a job, leaving home, and settling down with a partner can all lead young people away from crime. Re-offending 85% of young offenders cautioned don't come to the attention of the police again within two years.
The MPS Youth Justice Policy Manual The Government Office for London (GOL) reported in 2004 that youth crime continues to fall in London. This was shown to be due to the significant contribution made by the MPS in partnership with other agencies to make London's neighbourhoods safer. The publication of the Met's Youth Justice Policy Manual provides police officers, police staff and the extended police family with a source of youth policy information that is easy to find and use. With the help of the manual, active support to partner agencies in addressing a range of difficulties experienced by children and young people in London can be provided. The manual consolidates the Met's existing youth justice procedures and creates a number of new ones. It incorporates national guidance issued by the Home Office, the Youth Justice Board (YJB) and the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO). Runaways For many young people who leave home due to abuse or neglect, London is their chosen destination. Once they are homeless, they are vulnerable and frightened and the response on first contact is very important in gaining the young person's trust. If help from a police officer is willingly received, the young person may be deflected away from crime. A police officer may appear threatening to a young, frightened person who is alone on the streets, but can also represent the only comfort and support available. Agencies to contact for practical help for homeless young people include:
Alone in London: (relevant to all London Boroughs) Centrepoint offers young, homeless people a safe place to stay.
Child Poverty in London In spite of the wealth and opportunities generated by London's dynamic economy, disadvantage and inequality mean that over half a million of London's children - 41% - live in poverty. There are unique and complex issues that lie behind London's high child poverty rates. As such, the Commission seeks to address London's unique needs, identify best practice and devise effective policy solutions. The London Child Poverty Commission website, is an independent body set up by the Mayor of London and the Association of London Government in February 2006. This link will provide information about child poverty, contact and useful links to websites with information on child poverty and related matters. Young People and Prison Even though youth crime has fallen, prison sentences for young people have increased. Between 1992 and 1999 custodial sentences rose by 90% while youth crime fell. There are currently just under 11,000 under 21s in prison in the United Kingdom. Approximately 3000 of that number are held in Young Offender Institutions (YOIs). The number of children in prison in the United Kingdom has more than doubled since 1993 despite a decline in the number of children convicted or cautioned for offences. The U.K. now locks up more children than anyone else in Europe. Custody for young people Prison or 'custody' can mean several different things depending on whether you are a young person, and also whether you are male or female. Young males The three types of 'secure accommodation' in which a young person can be placed are:
Young Females Girls aged 16 or younger may be held in LASCHs, but the United Kingdom has no YOIs for young females. As a result, if a young female receives a custodial sentence she will be sent to a juvenile wing of an adult female prison. There are currently around 70 young females under the age of 18 years old in adult prisons and they are held there in breach of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. The Youth Justice Board, which is responsible for the administration of the juvenile justice system, and Her Majesty's Prison Service consider the removal of 15 and 16 year old females from adult prisons a priority. However, prisons ill-equipped to deal with the unique problems of young people (such as Holloway in London) continue to hold 17 year olds though the government is considering building separate prisons for them. DTOs (Detention and Training Orders) The Detention and Training Order (DTO) is used to sentence young people aged 12 to 17 to custody. The sentence can be between four months and two years. The first half is spent in custody and the second back in the community under the supervision of a Youth Offending Team (YOT). The court can require the young person to be in an Intensive Supervision and Surveillance Programme (ISSP) when released. A DTO is intended for use where there is significant risk of the young person committing further offences and when other sentences are considered inappropriate. Binge Drinking
Binge drinking in 18 -24 year-olds - The government estimates that half of all violent crime is alcohol-related. In October 2006, a series of hard-hitting print and broadcast advertisements were launched in the hope that it would alert young people to the dangers of binge drinking. The "Know Your Limits" campaign shows drinkers becoming the victim of accidents, beatings and rape, and stresses the lack of judgment that comes with being drunk. "Young people drink to get drunk, and we need to find an effective way to change their attitude towards alcohol," said Chief Executive Lesley King-Lewis. A TV commercial shows a masked man in a superhero costume scaling scaffolding to rescue some lost balloons. He falls to the ground, badly injured, and is shown to be an ordinary man who had been fuelled by drink. Other ads will appear in movie theatres, on radio, in magazines and online. "The campaign dramatizes the consequences of drinking irresponsibly by showing that it makes you feel invincible when you are actually more vulnerable," said Home Office minister Vernon Coaker. Police officers have long struggled with high levels of alcohol-fuelled violence, especially in city centres on weekends. Public Health Minister Caroline Flint said the campaign was aimed at 18 to 24-year-olds, many of whom considered "throwing up, embarrassing yourself or getting hurt ... almost a badge of honour." "We feel they will recognize themselves in these advertisements and possibly recognize things that have happened to their friends as a result of drinking," she said. The campaign group Action on Addiction has welcomed the latest campaign. Alcohol & substance abuse in families Children and young people can be the victims of the addictions of those who should be protecting them, such as their own family. Alateen gives young people with family alcohol problems the opportunity to meet with other young people in similar situations. Support, Therapeutic, Advocacy and Outreach (STARS) works with children and young people through the Hidden Harm Working Group, a subgroup of the Government's Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs Bullying On this page:
Bullying is the common denominator of harassment, discrimination, abuse and violence. Different Government departments and voluntary organisations appreciate the harmful consequences of bullying and are seeking to eradicate it. In most instances, bullies commit criminal acts ranging from harassment to assault or battery. Definition of bullying Bullying may be defined as persistent aggressive behaviour directed towards particular victims, who cannot retaliate or defend themselves effectively. Bullying usually differs from harassment and assault in that the latter can result from a single incident whereas bullying tends to be an accumulation of many small incidents over a long period of time. Bullying in Schools
Which young people are bullied?
Bullying in Prison Bullying is a particularly serious problem in prison where there is no chance to escape. Bullying may be carried out by staff or other prisoners: In response to the high reported rates of bullying and intimidation in prison, the Prison Service has adopted a number of anti-bullying strategies. It is unknown whether these have been successful. Child Sex Abuse Child sexual abuse is a form of child abuse and is often hardest to talk about. The NSPCC 'Talk 'til it stops', aims to give the public the courage to talk to someone if they suspect or know that child abuse is happening. Much is made of in the media about paedophiles and the crimes that they commit and there is increasing public concern about these offences especially with the wide use of the internet and foreign travel. Often terms such as 'convicted paedophile' are used, but in reality it is not a crime to be a paedophile. Paedophilia is the condition of adolescent or adult males or females whose primary sexual attraction is towards prepubescent children (usually aged 13 years or younger). This is different to sexual attraction to post-pubescent adolescents, known as ephebophilia. Pederasty refers to attraction toward male adolescents by male adults. However, it should be noted that in the U.K., the term paedophilia is often used (particularly in the media) far more broadly than this definition.
Sex and the Law The legal age for young people to consent to have sex is 16. This applies to heterosexual and gay male sex.
The government reformed and amended the law relating to child sexual abuse in the Sexual Offences Act of 2003. The offences are now split according to age. The NSPCC website provides useful information on this subject. Teen speak Teenagers have always had their own playground vocabulary, but over the past 10 years, teenagers have developed almost a language of their own. It has been influenced by the black community and black music, and as black speak is regarded as something that outsiders can't understand it is a very important part of creating a kind of powerful, attractive, sophisticated identity. "There is this sense that they are really in control of their own culture. Here are some examples of the words and phrases: Biters People who copy from others
Butt out Don't be nosy; go away
Buff Good looking
Bling or bling bling Sparkly things, jewellery
Chillin' Relaxing
Da bomb Great, excellent
Don't even go there I don't want to talk about that
Dork Stupid person
Fit Good looking, attractive
Flash You just said something really stupid
Hello? What on earth are you talking about?
Hench Strong, touch, strong male
Keep it real Be serious
Lush Good looking, gorgeous
Mackin' out Relaxing
Moshin' Shaking your head to loud rock music
Oh go sleep in a tree Shut up, go away
Phat Really cool, great
Phat Phree Uncool
Piggin' Eating
Prity sik Great
Talk to the hand 'cos the face is in Spain I'm not listening
Rank Disgusting (of food or smell)
Rare Ugly, unpleasant person
Tight Closeness (to a friend)
That's tight Mean with money
Yeah, right You're lying
Way Very (ie if someone has said something is cool, just say 'way' and it means, 'it's very cool'
Whatever 'Yeah, yeah, whatever you say' when you don't want to be bothered to talk about it.
Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 Codes of practice - Code C Detention, treatment and questioning of [juveniles] by police officers 1.5 If anyone appears to be under 17, they shall be treated as a juvenile for the purposes of this Code in the absence of clear evidence that they are older. 1.7 'The appropriate adult' means in the case of a:
Note 1B A person, including a parent or guardian, should not be an appropriate adult if they are
Note: if a juvenile's parent is estranged from the juvenile, they should not be asked to act as the appropriate adult if the juvenile expressly and specifically objects to their presence. Note 1C If a juvenile admits an offence to, or in the presence of, a social worker or member of a youth offending team other than during the time that person is acting as the juvenile's appropriate adult, another appropriate adult should be appointed in the interest of fairness. Note 1E A detainee should always be given an opportunity, when an appropriate adult is called to the police station, to consult privately with a solicitor in the appropriate adult's absence if they want. An appropriate adult is not subject to legal privilege. Note 1F A solicitor or independent custody visitor (formerly a lay visitor) present at the police station in that capacity may not be the appropriate adult. 3.13 If the detainee is a juvenile, the custody officer must, if it is practicable, ascertain the identity of a person responsible for their welfare. That person:
3.14 If a juvenile is known to be subject to a court order under which a person or organisation is given any degree of statutory responsibility to supervise or otherwise monitor them, reasonable steps must also be taken to notify that person or organisation (the 'responsible officer'). The responsible officer will normally be a member of a Youth Offending Team, except for a curfew order which involves electronic monitoring when the contractor providing the monitoring will normally be the responsible officer. 3.15 If the detainee is a juvenile, mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable, the custody officer must, as soon as practicable:
3.17 If the appropriate adult is:
3.18 The detainee shall be advised that:
3.19 If the detainee, or appropriate adult on the detainee's behalf, asks for a solicitor to be called to give legal advice, the provisions of section 6 apply. Note 3A
Note 3C If the juvenile is in local authority or voluntary organisation care but living with their parents or other adults responsible for their welfare, although there is no legal obligation to inform them, they should normally be contacted, as well as the authority or organisation unless suspected of involvement in the offence concerned. Even if the juvenile is not living with their parents, consideration should be given to informing them. Note 6.5A In the case of a juvenile, an appropriate adult should consider whether legal advice from a solicitor is required. If the juvenile indicates that they do not want legal advice, the appropriate adult has the right to ask for a solicitor to attend if this would be in the best interests of the person. However, the detained person cannot be forced to see the solicitor if he is adamant that he does not wish to do so.
Note 8.8 A juvenile shall not be placed in a police cell unless no other secure accommodation is available and the custody officer considers it is not practicable to supervise them if they are not placed in a cell or that a cell provides more comfortable accommodation than other secure accommodation in the station. A juvenile may not be placed in a cell with a detained adult. Note 8.10 If a juvenile is placed in a cell, the reason must be recorded. 10.12 If a juvenile…is cautioned in the absence of the appropriate adult, the caution must be repeated in the adult's presence. 11.15 A juvenile…must not be interviewed regarding their involvement or suspected involvement in a criminal offence or offences, or asked to provide or sign a written statement under caution, or record of interview, in the absence of the appropriate adult unless paras 11.1, 11.18 to 11.20 apply. See Note 11C. 11.18. The following persons may not be interviewed unless an officer of superintendent rank or above considers delay will lead to the consequences in paragraph 11.1(a) to (c), and is satisfied the interview would not significantly harm the person's physical or mental state (see Annex G):
Note 11C, 11D 11C Although juveniles or people who are mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable are often capable of providing reliable evidence, they may, without knowing or wishing to do so, be particularly prone in certain circumstances to provide information that may be unreliable, misleading or self-incriminating. Special care should always be taken when questioning such a person, and the appropriate adult should be involved if there is any doubt about a person's age, mental state or capacity. Because of the risk of unreliable evidence it is also important to obtain corroboration of any facts admitted whenever possible. 11D Juveniles should not be arrested at their place of education unless this is unavoidable. When a juvenile is arrested at their place of education, the principal or their nominee must be informed. 13.6 An interpreter should also be called if a juvenile is interviewed and the parent or guardian present as the appropriate adult appears to be deaf or there is doubt about their hearing or speaking ability, unless they agree in writing to the interview proceeding without one or paragraphs 11.1, 11.18 to 11.20 apply. 15.2A Section 42(1) of PACE as amended extends the maximum period of detention for indictable offences from 24 hours to 36 hours. Detaining a juvenile or mentally vulnerable person for longer than 24 hours will be dependent on the circumstances of the case and with regard to the person's: (a) special vulnerability; (b) the legal obligation to provide an opportunity for representations to be made prior to a decision about extending detention; (c) the need to consult and consider the views of any appropriate adult; and (d) any alternatives to police custody. 15.3C The decision on whether the review takes place in person or by telephone or by video conferencing (see Note 15G) is a matter for the review officer. In determining the form the review may take, the review officer must always take full account of the needs of the person in custody. The benefits of carrying out a review in person should always be considered, based on the individual circumstances of each case with specific additional consideration if the person is: (a) a juvenile (and the age of the juvenile); 16.1 When the officer in charge of the investigation reasonably believes there is sufficient evidence to provide a realistic prospect of conviction for the offence (see paragraph 11.6), they shall without delay, and subject to the following qualification, inform the custody officer who will be responsible for considering whether the detainee should be charged. See Notes 11B and 16A. When a person is detained in respect of more than one offence it is permissible to delay informing the custody officer until the above conditions are satisfied in respect of all the offences, but see paragraph 11.6. If the detainee is a juvenile, mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable, any resulting action shall be taken in the presence of the appropriate adult if they are present at the time. See Notes 16B and 16C. 16.3 When a detainee is charged they shall be given a written notice showing particulars of the offence and, subject to paragraph 2.6A, the officer's name and the case reference number. As far as possible the particulars of the charge shall be stated in simple terms, but they shall also show the precise offence in law with which the detainee is charged. The notice shall begin: 'You are charged with the offence(s) shown below.' Followed by the caution. If the detainee is a juvenile, mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable, the notice should be given to the appropriate adult. 16.4A If the detainee: • is a juvenile…… the appropriate adult shall also be given a copy, or the interview record shall be brought to their attention. 16.7 When a juvenile is charged with an offence and the custody officer authorises their continued detention after charge, the custody officer must try to make arrangements for the juvenile to be taken into the care of a local authority to be detained pending appearance in court unless the custody officer certifies it is impracticable to do so or, in the case of a juvenile of at least 12 years old, no secure accommodation is available and there is a risk to the public of serious harm from that juvenile, in accordance with PACE, section 38(6). See Note 16D 16.10 If it is not practicable to make arrangements for a juvenile's transfer into local authority care as in paragraph 16.7, the custody officer must record the reasons and complete a certificate to be produced before the court with the juvenile. See Note 16D Note 16D Except as in paragraph 16.7, neither a juvenile's behaviour nor the nature of the offence provides grounds for the custody officer to decide it is impracticable to arrange the juvenile's transfer to local authority care. Similarly, the lack of secure local authority accommodation does not make it impracticable to transfer the juvenile. The availability of secure accommodation is only a factor in relation to a juvenile aged 12 or over when the local authority accommodation would not be adequate to protect the public from serious harm from them. The obligation to transfer a juvenile to local authority accommodation applies as much to a juvenile charged during the daytime as to a juvenile to be held overnight, subject to a requirement to bring the juvenile before a court under PACE, section 46. Annex A: Intimate Strip Searches 5. An intimate search at a police station of a juvenile or mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable person may take place only in the presence of an appropriate adult of the same sex, unless the detainee specifically requests a particular adult of the opposite sex who is readily available. In the case of a juvenile the search may take place in the absence of the appropriate adult only if the juvenile signifies in the presence of the appropriate adult they do not want the adult present during the search and the adult agrees. A record shall be made of the juvenile's decision and signed by the appropriate adult. When strip searches are conducted:
Annex B: Delay in notifying arrest or allowing access to legal advice Note B1 Even if Annex B applies in the case of a juvenile, or a person who is mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable, action to inform the appropriate adult and the person responsible for a juvenile's welfare if that is a different person, must nevertheless be taken as in paragraph 3.13 and 3.15. Identification of disabled persons by police officers Codes of practice - Code D Identification of persons by police officers (Juveniles) 2.12 If any procedure in this Code requires a person's consent, the consent of a:
2.13 If a person is blind, seriously visually impaired or unable to read, the custody officer or identification officer shall make sure their solicitor, relative, appropriate adult or some other person likely to take an interest in them and not involved in the investigation is available to help check any documentation. When this Code requires written consent or signing, the person assisting may be asked to sign instead, if the detainee prefers. This paragraph does not require an appropriate adult to be called solely to assist in checking and signing documentation for a person who is not a juvenile, or mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable (see Note 2B and Code C paragraph 3.15). 2.14 If any procedure in this Code requires information to be given to or sought from a suspect, it must be given or sought in the appropriate adult's presence if the suspect is mentally disordered, otherwise mentally vulnerable or a juvenile. If the appropriate adult is not present when the information is first given or sought, the procedure must be repeated in the presence of the appropriate adult when they arrive. If the suspect appears deaf or there is doubt about their hearing or speaking ability or ability to understand English, and effective communication cannot be established, the information must be given or sought through an interpreter. 2.15 Any procedure in this Code involving the participation of a suspect who is mentally disordered, otherwise mentally vulnerable or a juvenile must take place in the presence of the appropriate adult. See Code C paragraph 1.4. 2.15 A Any procedure in this Code involving the participation of a witness who is or appears to be mentally disordered, otherwise mentally vulnerable or a juvenile should take place in the presence of a pre-trial support person. However, the support-person must not be allowed to prompt any identification of a suspect by a witness. See Note 2AB. Note 2A For the purposes of paragraph 2.12, the consent required from a parent or guardian may, for a juvenile in the care of a local authority or voluntary organisation, be given by that authority or organisation. In the case of a juvenile, nothing in paragraph 2.12 requires the parent, guardian or representative of a local authority or voluntary organisation to be present to give their consent, unless they are acting as the appropriate adult under paragraphs 2.14 or 2.15. However, it is important that a parent or guardian not present is fully informed before being asked to consent. They must be given the same information about the procedure and the juvenile's suspected involvement in the offence as the juvenile and appropriate adult. The parent or guardian must also be allowed to speak to the juvenile and the appropriate adult if they wish. Provided the consent is fully informed and is not withdrawn, it may be obtained at any time before the procedure takes place.
3.17 Unless paragraph 3.20 applies, before a video identification, an identification parade or group identification is arranged, the following shall be explained to the suspect:
3.21 When a known suspect is not available or has ceased to be available, see paragraph 3.4, the identification officer may make arrangements for a video identification (see Annex A). If necessary, the identification officer may follow the video identification procedures but using still images. Any suitable moving or still images may be used and these may be obtained covertly if necessary. Alternatively, the identification officer may make arrangements for a group identification. See Note 3D. These provisions may also be applied to juveniles where the consent of their parent or guardian is either refused or reasonable efforts to obtain that consent have failed (see paragraph 2.12). 5D Examples of when it would not be practicable to obtain a detainee's consent, see paragraph 2.12, to a search, examination or the taking of a photograph of an identifying mark include: (c) in the case of a juvenile, if the parent or guardian cannot be contacted in sufficient time to allow the search or examination to be carried out or the photograph to be taken. Note 5E Examples of when it would not be practicable to obtain the person's consent, see paragraph 2.12, to a photograph being taken include: (d) in the case of a juvenile, if the parent or guardian cannot be contacted in sufficient time to allow the photograph to be taken. 6.9 When clothing needs to be removed in circumstances likely to cause embarrassment to the person, no person of the opposite sex who is not a registered medical practitioner or registered health care professional shall be present, (unless in the case of a juvenile, mentally disordered or mentally vulnerable person, that person specifically requests the presence of an appropriate adult of the opposite sex who is readily available) nor shall anyone whose presence is unnecessary. However, in the case of a juvenile, this is subject to the overriding proviso that such a removal of clothing may take place in the absence of the appropriate adult only if the juvenile signifies, in their presence, that they prefer the adult's absence and they agree. Child Death Infant deaths This page is being developed and additional material will be added in the near future. The Child Death Help Line The Child Death Help Line is a free-phone service for all those affected by the death of a child. Anyone can call who is affected by the death of a child of any age, from pre-birth to adult. This includes parents, brothers, sisters, grand parents, other relatives, friends, teachers, emergency services, staff and health care professionals. They offer a service of professionals and parents working in partnership to provide: a help line which is staffed by bereaved parent volunteers who are trained and supported by a professional team that offers a listening service with emotional support to all those affected by the death of a child; The opportunity to talk in confidence with someone who is not a counsellor, but has experienced the death of a child and who understands the powerful emotions and feelings involved. These contacts understand the long-term nature and sadness of grief, especially at significant times like birthdays, anniversaries and other family events. The caller's information is kept confidential. The help line number is open every day throughout the year and can be called at any time following the bereavement.
-Every evening between 7pm and 10 pm
Freephone 0800 282986
Disability On this page:
Welcome …To the Disability section of the site. The intention of this section is to provide information on Disability issues for the use of police officers and staff in their professional, everyday duties. Guidance from the Deaf and disabled community has helped us in our efforts to present the point of view of that community. Links and contacts (found on the menu to the right of this page) represent 'organisations OF disabled people' and 'organisations FOR disabled people'. Related legislation can be accessed by selecting from the menu to the right of the page. Acknowledgements Many thanks to all those who have helped in the preparation of this section, in particular the MPS Disability Strand. Media articles The most recent media articles can be found in the What's New section.
Stop the decline of public toilets, say MPs
Deaf people lobby MPs over phones
Disability dolls become more popular
Disabled groups outraged by Beijing snub
Call for understanding following church's autism ban
Prisons unable to cope with rising levels of mentally ill inmates
Call To End Driving Discrimination For People With Diabetes, UK
U.K. travel websites fail disabled users
Mentally ill travel to UK for rehabilitation Disability and the MPS
“We will strive to change the way we have traditionally worked, to ensure disabled people have full access to us. Implementing a Social Model of Disability will remove barriers and proactively tackle discrimination. We also accept that disablism is a form of oppression in the same way as racism, sexism and homophobia.” (MPS Equality Scheme) The Metropolitan Police Service supports the Social Model of Disability (see link, left). This means that policies, procedures and practices should be inclusive, and individual MPS staff and officers must ensure they remove barriers or make adjustments to help the MPS become an inclusive organisation. The MPS has legal duties both organizationally and individually under the Disability Discrimination Act. The social model of disability
There are two ways to understand Deaf and disabled people. One is the medical model and one is the social model. (Models are only ways of seeing things). The medical model Traditionally, Deaf and disabled people have been defined by their "disability" their impairment or their medical condition. The medical model has traditionally seen disabled people as the problem. A Deaf or disabled child is born and it is a problem. A person becomes Deaf or disabled later in life and it is a problem. The result of this medical approach is that disability is viewed as a personal tragedy, disabled people are pitied. In this model, Deaf and Disabled people need help, need professionals to "take care" of them. Disabled people are usually put into separate impairment groups, and provided with segregated facilities such as day centres and special schools. Disabled people often feel they are a burden on family and friends because of these views.
The social model This model was developed by disabled people and is now adopted and used extensively throughout the UK and by the Metropolitan Police Service (MPS). The social model says that disabled people and their impairments or medical condition are not the problem. The problem is society's attitudes, the physical, and cultural environment and institutional barriers which prevent deaf and disabled people from participating in society. Discrimination is the issue - disabled people experience discrimination because of the way society is organized and have a shared experience of discrimination. In this model it is society's responsibility to change. This includes removing barriers to employment, participation, education, leisure, and of course public services. It also includes challenging stereotypes and prejudices. For public services, it includes addressing institutional discrimination - how procedures, policies and the culture of an organization might discriminate against a particular group. The cultural model of deafness Deaf people who use British Sign Language (BSL) do not see themselves as disabled people, but as members of a cultural minority. Deaf people's culture is visual. The UK Deaf community (Deaf with a capital D) are about 70,000 people, of whom a high percentage live in London. BSL is a language in its own right with its own grammar and syntax, and is now recognized by the UK government as a national language. The MPS Disability Independent Action Advisory Group (DIAG)
"Nothing about us without us" The DIAG, has been in existence since 2004. It is a group of Deaf and disabled people reflecting the diversity of London. Members are from different faiths, cultures and sexuality and there are also members who are involved in user led disability and/or Deaf organisations or have experience of particular impairment issues. The DIAG promotes the social model of disability and the cultural model of deafness in all our work. The role of the members of the DIAG as Independent Advisors is to reflect the thoughts, feelings and issues of Deaf and disabled people in London with regard to policing issues. Their goal is to enhance the Met's best practice as well as the confidence of Deaf and disabled people with respect to the service they receive. They advise on policies, strategies, and critical incidents and take part in conferences and consultation events. They also raise issues and concerns of importance to the Deaf and disabled community such as Hate Crime, Domestic Violence, Training, Access, Employment and responses to terrorist attacks.
MPS officers and staff approach DIAG for advice as needed at a strategic level. Discrimination
Discrimination against Deaf and disabled people "We recognize that discrimination and disadvantage are compounded for many disabled people because of their age, gender, race or ethnic origin, or because of religious belief or faith matters, or as a result of their sexual orientation. We will make sure that the concerns of disabled men and women, Black and Asian disabled people, lesbian and gay disabled people and other specific groups of disabled people facing discrimination are fully integrated into the Scheme when we develop the separate specific sections. The diversity of disabled people is, itself, something we acknowledge and value." (MPS Equality scheme) Disability and London
Communication
Disabled people and Communication The vital Issues relating to communicating with Deaf and disabled people may be accessed by clicking on the sections you require to the left of the page. Please don't hesitate to send contributions of experiences or case histories that may help others. The site can be amended at any time. Face to face
Officers may feel they are not equipped to interact with Deaf and disabled people. They wonder what to say, where to look, how to act. They are also conscious of possibly causing offence, however well meaning. As a result it is often easier to ignore the situation or pretend you have not seen the disabled person. The points below may assist in ways to communicate with Deaf and disabled people. Communicating with deaf and disabled people
1. Treat Deaf and disabled people with respect and consideration as you would any other member of the public. Best practice
Don't make assumptions
1. Don't assume that mental health service users may be a danger to other people. The vast majority of users/survivors of mental health system have depression. Only a small proportion of crimes of violence are committed by people with a mental health diagnosis or receiving treatment. Example: You arrive at the scene of a fight outside a pub. You are restraining one of the young men involved in the fight; you talk to him but he does not react. You think he may be deaf. You will need to find a way of communicating with the young man, otherwise he may become more aggressive or distressed because he does not know what is happening. What you can do
1. Get another officer to communicate with the young man whilst you restrain him - as a deaf person, if he can lipread, he needs to see you to be able to understand you. (How to book an interpreters) Accessible formats
The MPS has produced a document on making information accessible and accessible formats called "Producing documents in alternative formats” This is a requirement under the Disability Discrimination Act and is to be used whenever making contact with the public. A practical example If you are preparing a leaflet about your Safer Neighbourhood teams the following points should be observed: What you can do
• Use print large enough for elderly people to read (14 point) Deaf & hearing impaired
Deaf and hearing impaired people are approximately one in seven of the population, about 9 million. They see themselves as a linguistic minority not as 'disabled' people. Deaf (with a capital D) is a way of describing a culture with its own sign language, lifestyle, history, and a sense of belonging. This is a cultural model of deafness rather than a medical model and defines being Deaf as a positive way of experiencing the world visually. The medical model of deafness focuses on how much someone's hearing differs from the rest of society. British Sign Language (BSL) Many Deaf people use British Sign Language (BSL). There are about 75,000 BSL users in the UK, with a significant community in London. An unknown number of Deaf people use a Sign language other than BSL- Turkish or Urdu Sign Language for example - and have almost no access to relevant interpreters. BSL does not easily translate into English so if you are in contact with a Deaf person by Email, their use of language will not be the same as your own. A Deaf person's first language will be BSL. BSL does not have any of the grammar of English. It takes a long time to learn, it is a visual language so you communicate by sight. The voice is not used and many signs combine with facial expression and some lip movement as well as body language. Click here for further information on MPS use of BSL interpreters Aids to hearing
Some Deaf and hearing impaired people use hearing aids, others use hearing aids and lip read. People who use hearing aids will also be able to use induction loops. Induction loops can be portable (they hang around the neck) or can be used in a room. These large portable loops come in a metal case and are fairly easy to set up. In many new buildings induction loops are integral to the room. If you use portable loops in different rooms there could be a tendency for them to "bleed" into each other so whenever you set up an induction loop you should get someone who uses a hearing aid to test it out. It is also a myth that if you shout you will be heard easily. it is more helpful speaking clearly and not loudly which will assist. Be brief. Have a good light on your face. Have eye contact. Speak one at a time. Ask if you are being understood. Persevere. Don't shout, eat or smoke, place yourself too far away from the person, look down or away. Don't talk too fast, change the subject without warning, cover your mouth. The link below gives details of a scheme for Police link officers for deaf people (PLOD) scheme. This operates in various regions and Westminster. www.hampshire.police.uk/internet/advice/plod.htm Minicoms, SMS texting, Typetalk/ TextDirect Many BSL users and hearing impaired people use a textphone or minicom to communicate with voice phone users. increasingly, Deaf people use SMS texting to communicate. If you are publicizing a meeting, or your local Safer Neighbourhood team, or a helpline, it is essential that you provide either a Minicom or SMS text number for Deaf people to contact. Some people with speech impairments also use SMS texting or minicoms to communicate by phone. The MPS are currently considering the use of text messaging through mobile phones to improve access to policing services for young people and possibly for deaf and hearing impaired people. Typetalk or TextDirect allows Minicom and textphone users to communicate with voice phone users by going through a relay service. If you use a textphone or minicom you can make a call through TextDirect by dialing prefix 18001 before the telephone number you want - and vice-versa. TextDirect is available from most UK telephone networks. There is no additional charge for this service. Text Direct is useful when dealing with routine matters, for example to contact a Deaf person to make an appointment to see them. if you are dealing with more sensitive issues, it is more appropriate to meet the person face to face, with a Sign Language interpreter present. Deafblind People
Deafblind people (also called dual sensory impaired people) have a combined sight and hearing loss, which leads to difficulties in communicating, mobility, and accessing information. About 24,000 people in the UK are deafblind, but these figures do not take into account the large number of elderly people who are losing both their sight and hearing. So the number of people with a combined sight and hearing loss could well be as high as 250,000. Blind people use a white cane, deafblind people use the same white cane but with red bands around it, which shows they have a loss of hearing as well as sight. Finding the way from A to B can be difficult if you are deafblind. Also some deafblind people have the added issue of poor balance and have difficulty walking without someone beside them to steady them. Communication with deafblind people Other deafblind people who have either very limited or no sight or hearing, need the speaker to communicate with them on the palm of their hand. One way is to trace out the letters of each word in block capitals, one on top of the other. This is simple but the drawback is that it is slow and also a person who has been blind all their life may not easily recognise the letters as they are more used to reading Braille. A quicker method is called 'deafblind manual' and is like the fingerspelling used in British Sign Language, but placed on the hand. Different letters are spelt out by touching specific areas of the fingertips and palm of the deafblind person. For example, an 'a' is made by touching the person's thumb. Deafblind manual can be learnt in half an hour and after practice it can be possible to have a conversation at a reasonable pace by using this type of fingerspelling. Communicators Deafblind UK can provide communicators for members of the public who need someone to assist with communicating with a deafblind person. For further information click on links below www.deafblind.org.uk Example A deaf-blind woman was mugged outside her local station. Her red and white cane, as well as her communication book, was taken from her. Left stranded, she had to walk home unaided. Unbeknown to her, however, the police followed her all the way without attempting to communicate. Because of the inability of the police to know how to communicate with her she did not receive the services she should from the police. What you could do
• Approach her carefully from the front and hand her your police badge, which has a raised surface, so she could identify that they were police. some badges are also Brailled. Westminster Deaf link scheme
A service is available for deaf and hard of hearing people, who live, work or socialise in the City of Westminster. Four police officers have been trained in basic British Sign Language and deaf awareness as part of the new 'Link Officer' scheme to improve communication with deaf, deafened and hard of hearing people. The Link Officers provide communication support in non-urgent situations, for example giving crime prevention advice or taking a crime report. It is intended that similar schemes will be developed in other boroughs across London. Language
On this page:
We use the term disabled people because disabled people are disabled by the barriers that society puts in their way. They describe themselves as disabled people, rather than "people with disabilities". ("People with disabilities" is widely used but it is really a medical term and the social model term is disabled people.) Don't refer to a disabled person as, for example, "an epileptic" or "a diabetic", because a disease or condition does not define the person. Don't use terms such as 'the disabled', 'the blind', the disfigured' as these terms imply that people are part of uniform group which is separate from the rest of society. It is acceptable to use phrases that seem to refer to an impairment, such as "see you later" or "I'll be running along, then". The following is a guide to words and phrases that are generally regarded as acceptable or unacceptable today. Whilst one phrase may be used by one person it may not be used by another so use the phrase the person uses to describe themselves.
Disabled people not
"the disabled"
Blind person, not "the blind"
Deaf person not "the deaf"
The Deaf community, not "deaf and dumb"
Person with learning difficulties not
"mentally handicapped"
Mental health system user not "mad"
Mental health system survivor not "mentally ill"
Person with mental health not "dangerous"
Wheelchair user not "wheelchair bound"
Physically disabled not "cripple"
Person with epilepsy not "epileptic"
Person with sickle cell not "sickle cell sufferer"
HIV positive / living with HIV not "AIDS carrier"
Person with arthritis not "arthritic"
Person with cerebral palsy not "spastic"
Accessible or adapted toilet not "disabled toilet"
10 facts about Deaf & disabled people
Interpreters and translators
On this page: The Police and Deaf People…
Payments…
Standard Operating Procedure:
Metropolitan Police Service working with interpreters - 11 The Police and Deaf People This chapter has been written in consultation with the Association of Sign Language Interpreters, the British Deaf Association and the Council for the Advancement of Communication with Deaf People. 11.1 General
11.2 Legislative Framework
11.3 Methods of Communication
11.4 Finding an Interpreter
11.5 Emergency Back-up Mechanisms
11.6 Booking British Sign Language (BSL) Interpreters
11.7 The Deaf Detainee or Witness
11.8 Deaf Person's Arrival at the Police Station
11.9 Interpreter's Arrival at Police Station
11.10 Interviews
11.11 Statements from Detainees
11.12 Interpreter's Statement
11.13 Contacting deaf people
11.14 Becoming more Deaf Aware
12 Payments
12.1 Fees
12.2 Forms
Pre-signed forms should not be offered to interpreters under any circumstances. See also the Westminster Deaf Link Scheme
Disabled people and Crime The vital Issues relating to Deaf and disabled people and crime may be accessed by clicking on the sections you require to the left of the page. Please don't hesitate to send contributions of experiences or case histories that may help others. The site can be amended at any time. Disabled people as victims of crime
Disabled People and the Police - The MPA held their first ever consultation with disabled people and from the conference commissioned this background report on policing issues effecting disabled people from Greater London Action on Disability (GLAD), a pan-London community-based umbrella organisation of disabled people. (This organisation is no longer in existence). The report resulted in recommendations to the MPA and the MPA has implemented many of the recommendations in the report. Further information and a copy of the report are available here. The MPS and other regional forces are now collating statistics on crime and disabled people so that in the future there may be more concrete evidence available of crimes and disabled people. Nature and reporting of crime
What you can do when a disabled person reports a crime
1. Meet people's access needs e.g. interpreters, home visit, help to fill in forms, using appropriate and easy language etc;
Hate Crime Disabled People and Hate Crime The term 'hate crimes' for disabled people, can be defined as any crime committed against a person, a group or the property of a person or group where the motivation for the crime is hatred of, or prejudice against them because they are a disabled person. Legal changes are making the judiciary, the police and public bodies more responsive to hate crime and harassment. Judges now have greater powers of sentencing when hate crimes are committed against disabled people. The Criminal Justice Act …included provision for increasing sentences for crimes against disabled people where these are aggravated by discrimination or prejudice. This part of the Act became law in April 2005. (see previous info above). Disability Equality Duty (DED) …This new duty means that public bodies - including councils, police authorities and chief police officers - have a duty to promote disability equality, and this can include areas such as tackling harassment of disabled people. (see previous info above) The Equality Act …gives the CEHR powers to take a lead in monitoring disability hate crime, as well as powers to put pressure on other agencies such as the police to set up systems to make this happen The commission's role should help to keep hate crime against disabled people on the agenda long after the DRC disappears. (see previous info above)
Disabled People and the Police - a new relationship? 2004/5 Following a consultation with disabled people from GLAD (Greater London Action on Disability, a pan London community-based umbrella organisation of disabled people which no longer exists), the MPA commissioned a background report on policing issues that affect disabled people. This resulted in recommendations, many of which have been implemented.
For further information and copy of the report please follow the links below.
Domestic violence On this page:
According to Women's Aid, disabled women are twice as likely to experience domestic violence. Yet disabled and Deaf people have for some time been overlooked when experiencing domestic violence, either because many of the services offered were not accessible to them, or because it was assumed it did not happen to them. This is slowly changing, access to refuges has improved, as have support services. The MPS, with the advice of the Disability Independent Advisory Group is working to make sure it deals sensitively and professionally with Deaf and disabled women and men who experience domestic violence. Some issues specific to Deaf and disabled people Some disabled women experience domestic violence and see it as part of "normal" life. The abuse can come from family members, relatives or even support workers/personal assistants. Many disabled women, and some disabled men, lack the confidence, the means or the resources to speak out and get help about domestic violence. The fear of ending up in residential care is often a reason why disabled people do not report violence. Women with learning difficulties may talk about bullying rather than domestic violence, and may not be believed, as may women with mental health issues. Definition of domestic violence specific to Deaf and disabled people (See also the general section on domestic violence in the Gender section of this website. Click on the Gender link to the left of this page and then on Domestic Violence. The current definition of domestic violence does not include violence by non-family members who act as 'carers' to the disabled person, or for example agency workers or personal assistants employed by the disabled person themselves. Yet disabled people experience abuse and violence from carers. The MPS is working with the Disability Independent Advisory Group to broaden the definition of domestic violence to cover abuse by carers. Also many disabled people who experience abuse and violence live in residential homes or are in psychiatric units. They are not able to access mainstream domestic violence services but have to access other forms of assistance. Disabled women have campaigned for residential homes and psychiatric units to be seen as their domestic homes and be eligible to receive services that other women experiencing domestic violence do. Deaf women experiencing domestic violence face particular barriers in reporting it and in getting help - and may be dependent on their abusive partner for communication with the hearing world. Disabled men's experience of domestic violence has rarely been documented. It is important not to make assumptions about disabled men where domestic violence is concerned as it is known that they are very likely to be victims of domestic violence, including murder. It is also worth noting that just because a person is physically disabled does not mean he or she is not a perpetrator of physical or psychological abuse. What you can do
1. Use the Domestic Violence procedures as you would with any other victim of domestic violence
Support services
Suspects/Arrests/Stop & Search The following examples indicate some problems that may arise and how they might be dealt with: Please let us know (by clicking on the Contact Us button to the right of the screen) of any cases that you experience, or have experienced, that you think would be useful to add to those below. Examples An officer is called to an incident at a pub. When he gets there they find a young woman who is shouting and behaving oddly. It is reported to the officer by the publican, that the young woman was alright when she entered the pub, she had only had one drink, but that some youths had been name calling and she then began shouting. They could not seem to calm her down. What you could do The young woman is asked to sit down and the officer feels that there is something not quite right about her behaviour. He asks if she will calm down and feels it would be more appropriate to find someone who could advocate for her or offer her support. He speaks calmly to her and eventually she calms down. She is a young woman with autism and felt threatened when the youths started teasing her. Example A police officer attempts to stop a person in the street who is Deaf. She does not realise this at first and shouts at the person to stop. The Deaf person does not respond so officer puts his/her hand on Deaf person's arm. This panics the Deaf person who starts signing loudly i.e. with enhanced movement of hands and arms as that is how Deaf people shout! The officer could take this as aggression and responds by arresting this person. What you could do The officer speaks clearly realising the person may be Deaf and/or have a hearing impairment and may be able to lip read. The officer also shows the Deaf person his/her badge. They then may communicate by writing simple words on a notepad or the Deaf person may be able to lip read enough to understand what the officer is saying.
Police & Criminal Evidence Act 1984 Treatment and questioning of disabled persons by police officers Codes of practice - Code C Detention, treatment and questioning of [disabled] persons by police officers 1.4 If an officer has any suspicion, or is told in good faith, that a person of any age may be mentally disordered or ortherwise mentally vulnerable, in the absence of clear evidence to dispel that suspicion, the person shall be treated as such for the purposes of this Code. See Note 1G. Note 1G 'Mentally vulnerable' applies to any detainee who, because of their mental state or capacity, may not understand the significance of what is said, of questions or of their replies. 'Mental disorder' is defined in the Mental Health Act 1983, section 1(2) as 'mental illness, arrested or incomplete development of mind, psychopathic disorder and any other disorder or disability of mind'. When the custody officer has any doubt about the mental state or capacity of a detainee, that detainee should be treated as mentally vulnerable and an appropriate adult called. 1.6 If a person appears to be blind, seriously visually impaired, deaf, unable to read or speak or has difficulty orally because of a speech impediment, they shall be treated as such for the purposes of this Code in the absence of clear evidence to the contrary. 1.7 'The appropriate adult' means in the case of a….. (b) person who is mentally disordered or mentally vulnerable: See note 1D
Note 1D In the case of people who are mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable, it may be more satisfactory if the appropriate adult is someone experienced or trained in their care rather than a relative lacking such qualifications. But if the detainee prefers a relative to a better qualified stranger or objects to a particular person their wishes should, if practicable, be respected. 3.15 If the detainee is a juvenile, mentally disordered or ortherwise mentally vulnerable, the custody officer must, as soon as practicable:
3.20 If the detainee is blind, seriously visually impaired or unable to read, the custody officer shall make sure their solicitor, relative, appropriate adult or some other person likely to take an interest in them and not involved in the investigation is available to help check any documentation. when the Code requires written consent or signing the person assisting may be asked to sign instead, if the detainee prefers. This paragraph does not require an appropriate adult to be called solely to assist in checking and signing documentation for a person who is not a juvenile, or mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable. (see paragraph 3.15). 8.2 Cells in use must be adequately heated, cleaned and ventilated. They must be adequately lit, subject to such dimming as is compatible with safety and security to allow people detained overnight to sleep. No additional restraints shall be used within a locked cell unless absolutely necessary and then only restraint equipment approved for use in that force by the Chief Officer, which is reasonable and necessary in the circumstances having regard to the detainee's demeanour and with a view to ensuring their safety and the safety of others. If a detainee is deaf, mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable, particular care must be taken when deciding whether ot use any form of approved restraints. 9.12 If a detainee has in their possession, or claims to need, medication relating to a heart condition, diabetes, epilepsy or a condition of comparable potential seriousness then, even though paragraph 9.5 may not apply, the advice of the appropriate health care professional must be obtained. 13.1 Chief officers are responsible for making sure appropriate arrangements are in place for provision of suitability qualified interpreters for people who:
13.5 If a person appears to be deaf or there is doubt about their hearing or speaking ability, they must not be interviewed in the absence of an interpreter unless they agree in writing to being interviewed without one or paragraphs 11.1, 11.18 to 11.20 apply. 13.6 An interpreter should also be called if a juvenile is interviewed and the parent or guardian present as the appropriate adult appears to be deaf or there is doubt about their hearing or speaking ability, unless they agree in writing to the interview proceeding without one or paragraphs 11.1, 11.18 to 11.20 apply. 13.9 If paragraph 6.1 applies and the detainee cannot communicate with the solicitor because of language, hearing or speech difficulties, an interpreter must be called. .- The interpreter may not be a police officer or any other police staff when interpretation is needed for the purposes of obtaining legal advice. In all other cases a police officer or other police staff may only interpret if the detainee and the appropriate adult, if applicable, give their agreement in writing or if the interview is audibly recorded or visually recorded as in Code E or F 13.10 When the custody officer cannot establish effective communication with a person charged with an offence who appears deaf of there is doubt about their ability to hear, speak or to understand English, arrangements must be made as soon as practicable for an interpreter to explain the offence and any other information given by the custody officer. (Annex H ) Detained Person: Observation List
Annex E - Summary Of Provisions Relating to Mentally Disordered And Otherwise Mentally Vulnerable People 1. If an officer has any suspicion, or is told in good faith, that a person of any age may be mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable, or mentally incapable of understanding the significance of questions or their replies that person shall be treated as mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable for the purposes of this Code. See paragraph 1.4 2. In the case of a person who is mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable, 'the appropriate adult' means: See paragraph 1.7(b) and Note 1D 3. If the custody officer authorises the detention of a person who is mentally vulnerable or appears to be suffering from a mental disorder, the custody officer must as soon as practicable inform the appropriate adult of the grounds for detention and the person's whereabouts, and ask the adult to come to the police station to see them. If the appropriate adult: See paragraphs 3.15 to 3.17 4. If the appropriate adult, having been informed of the right to legal advice, considers legal advice should be taken, the provisions of section 6 apply as if the mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable person had requested access to legal advice. See paragraph 3.19 and Note E1 5. The custody officer must make sure a person receives appropriate clinical attention as soon as reasonably practicable if the person appears to be suffering from a mental disorder or in urgent cases immediately call the nearest health care professional or an ambulance. It is not intended these provisions delay the transfer of a detainee to a place of safety under the Mental Health Act 1983, section 136 if that is applicable. If an assessment under that Act is to take place at a police station, the custody officer must consider whether an appropriate health care professional should be called to conduct an initial clinical check on the detainee. See paragraph 9.5 and 9.6 11. If the custody officer charges a mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable person with an offence or takes such other action as is appropriate when there is sufficient evidence for a prosecution this must be done in the presence of the appropriate adult. The written notice embodying any charge must be given to the appropriate adult. See paragraphs 16.1 to 16.4A 12. An intimate or strip search of a mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable person may take place only in the presence of the appropriate adult of the same sex, unless the detainee specifically requests the presence of a particular adult of the opposite sex. A strip search may take place in the absence of an appropriate adult only in cases of urgency when there is a risk of serious harm to the detainee or others. See Annex A, paragraphs 5 and 11(c) 13. Particular care must be taken when deciding whether to use any form of approved restraints on a mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable person in a locked cell. See paragraph 8.2 Notes for guidance E1 The purpose of the provision at paragraph 3.19 is to protect the rights of a mentally disordered or otherwise menially vulnerable detained person who does not understand the significance of what is said to them. If the detained person wants to exercise the right to legal advice, the appropriate action should be taken and not delayed until the appropriate adult arrives. A mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable detained person should always be given an opportunity, when an appropriate adult is called to the police station, to consult privately with a solicitor in the absence of the appropriate adult if they want. E2 Although people who are mentally disordered or otherwise menially vulnerable are often capable of providing reliable evidence, they may, without knowing or wanting to do so, be particularly prone in certain circumstances to provide information that may be unreliable, misleading or seif-incriminating. Special care should always be taken when questioning such a person, and the appropriate adult should be involved if there is any doubt about a person's mental state or capacity. Because of the risk of unreliable evidence, it is important to obtain corroboration of any facts admitted whenever possible. E3 Because of the risks referred to in Note E2, which the presence of the appropriate adult is intended to minimise, officers of superintendent rank or above should exercise their discretion to authorise the commencement of an interview in the appropriate adult's absence only in exceptional cases, if it is necessary to avert an immediate risk of serious harm. See paragraphs 11. 1, 11. 18 to 11.20 6. It is imperative a mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable person detained under the Mental Health Act 1983, section 136 be assessed as soon as possible. If that assessment is to take place at the police station, an approved social worker and registered medical practitioner shall be called to the station as soon as possible in order to interview and examine the detainee. Once the detainee has been interviewed, examined and suitable arrangements been made for their treatment or care, they can no longer be detained under section 136. A detainee should be immediately discharged from detention if a registered medical practitioner having examined them, concludes they are not mentally disordered within the meaning of the Act. See paragraph 3.16 7. If a mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable person is cautioned in the absence of the appropriate adult, the caution must be repeated in the appropriate adult's presence. See paragraph 10. 12 8. A mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable person must not be interviewed or asked to provide or sign a written statement in the absence of the appropriate adult unless the provisions of paragraphs 11. 1 or 11. 18 to 11.20 apply. Questioning in these circumstances may not continue in the absence of the appropriate adult once sufficient information to avert the risk has been obtained. A record shall be made of the grounds for any decision to begin an interview in these circumstances. See paragraphs 11. 1, 11.15 and 11.18 to 11.20 9. If the appropriate adult is present at an interview, they shall be informed they are not expected to act simply as an observer and the purposes of their presence are to: See paragraph 11.17 10. If the detention of a mentally disordered or otherwise mentally vulnerable person is reviewed by a review officer or a superintendent, the appropriate adult must, if available at the time, be given an opportunity to make representations to the officer about the need for continuing detention. See paragraph 15.3
Meetings and events On this page: Access Physical Access to MPS sites Although work is progressing on improving access to MPS buildings many are not physically accessible. Therefore reasonable adjustments will need to be provided by our staff and officers to ensure we provide a service that meets the needs of all our users. How to set up an accessible meeting When you are planning a meeting or event, you should remember the following: Providing an accessible venue and meeting is a requirement of the Disability Discrimination Act. If your meeting is advertised as an open public meeting, you must provide basic access - an accessible meeting space and toilet, and with relevant parking facilities for Blue Badge holders. You need to provide Sign Language Interpreters and other communication support on request. Below are a few tips in organizing an accessible meeting. This list is certainly not a comprehensive list. The Venue Publicity and information at the meeting Any information/publicity must be in a wide range of formats such as Braille, audio cassette, large-print. Ensure that there is adequate space for people with disabilities to move about easily, both at the meeting and when taking refreshments. Make sure assistance is available. Access also includes the way the meeting is run. For instance if you are using OHP or Power Point presentation you should read out every slide, in order to enable those who cannot read them to have the information. All the content should be jargon free. When using a police or other building There are several further documents produced by MPS on accessible events : Events - guidelines for organisers The Events & Income Development Unit (EIDU) has developed guidelines, to provide support to event, conference and seminar organisers (hereafter referred to under the umbrella of "events") within the Metropolitan Police Service. The aim of the guidelines is to help ensure that Met events, whether external or internal, are carefully targeted, represent real value for money for the Service and provide tangible benefits for the people of London. For further information you can contact the EIDU Events Team. The Team is located on 7th floor, Empress State Building. Procedure for evacuation of staff and visitors with disabilities at NSY For further information please contact the New Scotland Yard Health and Safety Nominated Officer.
Faith On this page: Welcome …to the Faith section of the site. In all faiths, levels of observance range from no observance at all to the faith being an all-embracing way of life. Therefore, this section is for guidance. The specific needs of each individual should be assessed, respected and taken into account. Each faith can be accessed from the left hand margin. Please contact us with any comments or any additions that you think would be useful Media articles The most recent media articles can be found in the What's New section.
Government to disclose clampdown on hate-preachers
First woman to lead Muslim prayers angers traditionalists
Jewish school admissions policy ruled misleading
Straw asked to pardon executed witches
Warring monks threaten destruction of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
Creationist offers prize for fossil proof of evolution
Extremist cleric Omar Bakri's daughter leaves home after pole dancing revelations
Muslim man sues Tesco for being told to handle alcohol
Church welcomes the lapsed and lost into the fold
Radical Islamic clerics warn of further attacks after publisher is firebombed
Nine-year-old Midlands girl rescued from forced marriage
Purge on Muslim clerics who turn a blind eye to the abuse of women
Catholic could become king under plans to abolish Act of Settlement
Hijab, the dress code for Muslim women?
Sharia-compliant Mastercard launch
Lambeth conference: Archbishop blames liberals for church rift
Rowan Williams betrayed churches over gay bishop, says African leader
Sniffer dogs to wear 'Muslim' bootees
Call at Lambeth for gay bishop to resign post
Apology over 'offensive' puppy police advert after Muslim complaints
Bishops turning back on Lambeth
What are 300 Anglican clergy doing in Jerusalem?
Bishops criticise Anglican leader
Jewish centre holds anti-bullying seminar
Ahmadis celebrate 100 years but who are they and what do they believe?
British Muslim Pharmacist Under Attack for Refusing to Give Woman Abortifacient Pill
Muslim gangs 'are taking control of prison'
UK Prosecutors Say 'Cult' Acceptable
Jewish population on the increase
Right-wing Christian group pays for Commons researchers
Hindu monks sue RSPCA over slaughter of sacred cow Gangotri
Rabbis back embryo bill as a life-saver
Britain drawn into controversy over anti-Islam video by Geert Wilders
A Jihad for Love: Can your faith really kill you?
Vote on women bishops ordination
Forced marriages disgrace Islam
Muslim medical consortium fully supports Catholic fight against U.K. embryology bill
EU migrants relocating to the UK
UK targets Muslim women to fight extremists
Saudis stoking UK extremism, conference told
Circumcision 'the unkindest cut of all'
Concern over Dalai Lama's UK visit
Analysis: Religion in the UK
Vatican lists the 'new sins'
Archbishops warn of symbolic charge of blasphemy law
Assaults on Jews in UK hit record levels
Is there a UK Hindu caste culture?
Williams tries to defuse row over sharia law but refuses to apologise
Sharia Law row: Archbishop is in shock as he faces demands to quit and criticism from Lord Carey
Williams under fire in Sharia row
Transcript of Rowan Williams' interview on Radio 4 World at One
Sharia law in UK is 'unavoidable'
Gordon B. Hinckley: President of the Mormon church
Women's groups may get power to rescue 'brides' from wedlock
Thieves steal holy man's 'magical' leg
UK Hindu school's U-turn on vegetarian policy
Anger after Govt. vet kills cow at Hindu temple
Marriage of Muslim peer 'was not arranged'
Three teenagers held after Muslim, 17, dies from a knife wound
Creationists plan British theme park
Catholic church in India destroyed
Williams condemns breakaway bishops in gay rights row
Evidence of extremism in mosques 'fabricated'
MP Ann Clwyd defends student's Sikh religious views
Female 'lyrical terrorist' escapes jail
UK 'must celebrate Christianity'
Christian group loses blasphemy battle with BBC
British teacher flies home after receiving pardon
Mosques given code of practice
Honour killings
Greek Orthodox Church leader dies
Student protest halts family's deportation
Terror bill could put off Muslim informers
Bishop accused of whipping hatred against Muslims
UK mosques too radical for Iraq, says minister
About 70,000 people in Britain will legally change their names this year
'We want to offer sharia law to Britain'
Minority Report: Caste - a discrimination the government simply refuses to acknowledge
UK: Muslim gang culture making no-go areas
Jewish board to appoint Muslim adviser
Agnosticism On this page: PLEASE NOTE: This section (Agnosticism) breaks with the pattern established for other faiths - where each subsection (Prayer, Diet, Dress, etc) is given its own page. Due to the nature of Agnosticism there is not a great deal to say about it in the context of this site, and so the whole Agnosticism section is contained on this page. You may use the skip links above to jump to the required subsection. Overview Agnosticism ('a', without + 'gnosis' (Greek), knowledge) may be defined in simple terms by the following two quotations:
"O God, if there is a god, save my soul, if I have a soul."
"An agnostic thinks it impossible to know the truth in matters such as God and the future life, with which Christianity and other religions are concerned. Or, if not impossible, at least impossible at the present time." Demographic research services normally list Agnostics in the same category as Atheists and non-religious people. However, this can be misleading. History Famous agnostic thinkers Among the most famous agnostics have been Thomas Henry Huxley, Robert G. Ingersoll and Bertrand Russell. Thomas Henry Huxley Thomas Henry Huxley PC FRS (4 May 1825 Ð 29 June 1895) was an English biologist, known as "Darwin's Bulldog" for his advocacy of Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. Agnostic views are as old as philosophical skepticism, but the terms agnostic and agnosticism were created by Huxley Huxley to describe his own views on religion, a term whose use has continued to the present day. He began to use the term 'agnostic' in 1869, although his opinions had taken shape some time before that date. In a letter of 23 September 1860, to Charles Kingsley, Huxley discussed his views extensively. Robert G. Ingersoll Robert G. Ingersoll, an Illinois lawyer and politician who evolved into a well-known and sought-after orator in 19th century America, has been referred to as the "Great Agnostic." In an 1896 lecture titled Why I Am An Agnostic, Ingersoll explained:
"Is there a supernatural power—an arbitrary mind—an enthroned God—a supreme will that sways the tides and currents of the world—to which all causes bow? I do not deny. I do not know—but I do not believe… Bertrand Russell Bertrand Arthur William Russell, 3rd Earl Russell (1872-1970), was a British philosopher, historian, logician, mathematician, advocate for social reform, and pacifist. Although usually regarded as English, as he spent the majority of his life in England, he was born and raised in Wales.A prolific writer, Russell was a populariser of philosophy and a commentator on a large variety of topics. In Russell's 1947 pamphlet, Am I An Atheist Or An Agnostic? he considers the problem of what to call himself:
As a philosopher, if I were speaking to a purely philosophic audience I should say that I ought to describe myself as an Agnostic, because I do not think that there is a conclusive argument by which one can prove that there is not a God. However, in 1953, in his essay What is an Agnostic?, Russell says: I think that if I heard a voice from the sky predicting all that was going to happen to me during the next twenty-four hours, including events that would have seemed highly improbable, and if all these events then produced to happen, I might perhaps be convinced at least of the existence of some superhuman intelligence. Agnostics in London The London Atheist and Agnostic Friends Meetup Group Like Atheists, Agnostics are individuals who do not seek to belong to any particular group or organisation, but there is a new group that has recently been set up in London through which both Atheists and Agnostics can meet one another. Click on the above link for their website Subdivisions None Places of worship There are no designated places of worship. Holy texts There are no prescribed texts. The oath is taken by a secular affirmation. Prayer Agnostics have no prescribed prayers. Main festivals Agnostics do not celebrate religious festivals unless they do so in a secular way that celebrates a tradition but unrelated to any belief in the religious significance or worship of God. Diet Atheists have no dietary requirements other than those of the individual
Dress Atheists have no particular dress requirements. Language Related glossary of terms
Atheism An Atheist does not believe in god or postulate the existence of gods or spiritual beings. Christian religious teachers often give an incorrect derivation of Atheism from the Greek 'anti' meaning 'against' and 'theos' meaning 'god' which together mean 'against-god'. But this may be used to present a controversial picture of Atheists.
Existentialism
Freethinker
Humanism
Rationalism
Secularism Secularists also advocate that no religious groups should be in receipt of state funds or subsidies (e.g., tax relief), nor benefit from methods of information dissemination directed or funded by the state - e.g., education in state schools, programming on state funded television channels.
Scepticism Life cycle Religious ceremonies like christenings, weddings and funerals, etc may be marked by Agnostics with their own rituals for these events that give them meaning and significance without any religious content. These ceremonies differ from mainstream secular ceremonies like civil weddings, in that they are highly personalised for the individuals concerned. Ethics In practical terms Agnostics often follow the same moral code as religious people, but they arrive at the decision of what is good or bad without any help from the idea of God. Agnostics in Custody There are no special needs except those for each individual, but not for any reason of being an Atheist. Oath Atheists do not swear an oath from any religious text including the Bible. They swear a secular affirmation. Special issues Be aware that Agnostics might feel offended by an assumption of faith.
Atheism On this page: PLEASE NOTE: This section (Atheism) breaks with the pattern established for other faiths - where each subsection (Prayer, Diet, Dress, etc) is given its own page. Due to the nature of Atheism there is not a great deal to say about it in the context of this site, and so the whole Atheism section is contained on this page. You may use the skip links above to jump to the required subsection. Acknowledgements Many thanks to those who have so generously helped in the preparation of this section for their help and support. Overview The word Atheism derives from 'a', meaning 'without', and 'theism' meaning 'belief in god or gods'. Atheists do not believe in a god or gods or divine beings, or they believe that such concepts are not meaningful. Some Atheists put it more firmly and believe that a god or gods do not exist. Unlike Agnosticism (see separate link on left-hand menu), which leaves open the question of whether or not there is a God, Atheism is a positive denial. Many Atheists are also secularist, that is they are opposed to any special treatment given to organised religion, including its involvement in politics. The fact is that more than half the worlds population, and more than 90% of the world's scientists do not believe in a personal god, and hence would be considered Atheists by many Christians, Jews, and Muslims. Worldwide, there are about 1.1 billion non-religious people; only two religions have more numbers: Christianity and Islam. History There have been Atheists and doubters of God since ancient times. Most histories of Atheism regard the Greek and Roman philosophers Epicurus, Democritus, and Lucretius as the first Atheist writers. The theory of Evolution - 19th century Christianity came under multiple attack in the second half of the 19th century. The theory of evolution put forward by Charles Darwin, and other scientific discoveries, challenged the value of religion as a way of explaining the nature and existence of the world. Atheism, Theology and Bible Scholarship During the 18th and 19th centuries academic research began to undermine the literal truths of religion, and throw doubt on the existence of God as a supernatural being. Even earlier, the philosopher Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679) claimed in 1651, that Moses may not have written all the books of the Bible that were attributed to him. In 1779, J G Eichhorn suggested that the stories in the Book of Genesis were not based on historical fact but were myths like those of the ancient Greeks and Romans. Furthermore, he said, these stories should no longer be read as if they were the actual word of God. Intellectual thought based on historical fact as well as literary analysis of the bible text began to cast doubt on the Bible itself as a reliable historical document. The German, D F Strauss, said in 1835 that the New Testament stories about Christ should not be interpreted as literally true, but as a dress of religious symbolism clothing the life of a Jewish teacher. The idea of God as a human invention In 1841 Ludwig Feuerbach argued that God was a human invention, a spiritual device to help us deal with our fears and aspirations. Anthropology Anthropologists, too, were casting doubt on previous certainties. Research into comparative religion revealed that there was a great deal of similarity between the rituals and stories of many religions, so, for example, tribal religions have elements in common with Christianity. This posed the question of how Christianity, or any other religion, could legitimately claim that it was the only true faith and the unique result of God's revelation, since all religions seemed to have many features in common. At the end of the 19th century the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche (1844-1900) claimed that it was no longer possible to believe in the Christian God. He suggested that if people did not believe in God, then God ceased to exist. This had major ethical consequences. As the moral code of Western society's was based on Judaeo-Christian ethics, it would not be possible to live by a moral code based on a belief in God if there was no belief in God. Morality A powerful, but rather unexpected attack on Christianity came in the 19th century from a group that included the writer George Eliot (pen name of novelist Mary Anne Evans, pictured above), who thought that Christianity was immoral. They viewed as unethical the behaviour of a God who could act like a "revengeful tyrant". According to the doctrine of "original sin", they argued, God was prepared to punish people for a wrong that they had not personally committed, just because they were human beings and then decided to absolve us by punishing his son instead. James Froude argued this point of view in 1849:
"I would sooner perish for ever than stoop down before a Being who may have power to crush me, but whom my heart forbids me to reverence." Secularism The 19th century saw a serious campaign against the Church of England by the secularist movement, which its detractors viewed as highly privileged. For example, until 1828 only members of the Church of England could hold public office; until 1836, marriages could only be conducted by Church of England ministers and until 1871, only members of the Church of England could teach at Oxford and Cambridge universities. Blasphemy In Victorian Britain there were severe laws regarding blasphemy (the disrespectful use of the name of God). George Holyoake (1817-1906), the last person in England to be imprisoned (in 1842) for being an Atheist, was jailed for 6 months for a speech which included the line: "For myself, I flee the Bible as a viper, and revolt at the touch of a Christian." First Atheist Member of Parliament Charles Bradlaugh (1833-1891) was a prominent Victorian Atheist who was one of the founders of the National Secular Society in 1866. He edited the National Reformer, a journal he started in 1860, which itself was prosecuted for blasphemy. By 1861 it had a readership of 5,000. In 1866 Bradlaugh set up and became President of a "national freethought organisation" with headquarters in London and "branches in all the provincial towns". Bradlaugh was elected to Parliament in 1880, but was not allowed to take his seat because he would not swear a religious oath but wanted to affirm. He was re-elected several times over five years, but did not take his seat until 1886. When he did eventually take his seat he became Britain's first openly Atheist member of Parliament. Atheists in London The London Atheists meetup group organises discussion meetings in various parts of London. Details can be found on their website. Subdivisions There are no prescriptive subdivisions, though the BBC website gives the following definitions. There are separate links on this site to Agnosticism and Humanism which are separate forms of other belief systems.
Secularism
Rationalism
Atheist Buddhism
Humanistic Judaism
Christian Atheism
Postmodernism
Unitarian Universalism
In addition there is the Brights Movement founded in 2003 that has a naturalistic world view free of supernatural and mystical elements. Places of Worship There are no designated places of worship. Humanist organisations train people to officiate at humanist ceremonies, and compile lists of those who are qualified to do so. Holy texts There are no prescribed texts. The oath is taken by a secular affirmation. A number of books containing guidelines for use if non-religious ceremonies are required (see Life Cycle section below) are published, including some written by Jane Wynne Wilson for the British Humanist Association. Prayer Atheists have no prayers. Main festivals Atheists do not celebrate religious festivals unless they do so in a secular way that celebrates a tradition but unrelated to any belief in the religious significance or worship of God. Diet Atheists have no dietary requirements other than those of the individual. Dress Atheists have no particular dress requirements. Language Glossary
Atheism An Atheist does not believe in god or postulate the existence of gods or spiritual beings. Christian religious teachers often give an incorrect derivation of Atheism from the Greek 'anti' meaning 'against' and 'theos' meaning 'god' which together mean 'against-god'. But this may be used to present a controversial picture of Atheists.
Existentialism
Freethinker
Humanism
Rationalism
Secularism Secularists also advocate that no religious groups should be in receipt of state funds or subsidies (e.g., tax relief), nor benefit from methods of information dissemination directed or funded by the state - e.g., education in state schools, programming on state funded television channels.
Scepticism Life cycle Religious ceremonies like christenings, weddings and funerals, etc may be marked by Atheist and Humanist organisations with their own rituals for these events that give them meaning and significance without any religious content. These ceremonies differ from mainstream secular ceremonies like civil weddings, in that they are highly personalised for the individuals concerned. Ethics In practical terms Atheists often follow the same moral code as religious people, but they arrive at the decision of what is good or bad without any help from the idea of God. As might be expected, organ donation is completely left to the individual's personal choice. Many Atheists believe that religion should have no place in politics. (See National Secular Society). National Secular Society Atheists in custody There are no special needs except those for each individual, but not for any reason of being an Atheist. Oath Atheists do not swear an oath from any religious text including the Bible. They swear a secular affirmation. Special issues Be aware that Atheists might feel offended by an assumption of faith.
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Christianity Please select the topic you require from the left-hand menu and contacts and links from the right of the page. If you wish to contact us about this section please select the "Contact Us" option on the right of the page. Acknowledgements Many thanks to all those who have so generously given their help and support in the preparation of this section.
Overview On this page: Overview: History and belief system
The symbol of the Cross The cross today is a reminder of the cross on which Jesus is believed by Christians to have been executed 2000 years ago. It became a symbol for his followers from very early on. At first Christians feared that a public display of the cross would lead to persecution or mockery, but when the Roman Emperor Constantine converted to Christianity in the 4th Century, crucifixion was abolished as a punishment, and the cross was promoted as a symbol of the Son of God. The belief that the wearing of a cross can ward off evil and protect the wearer goes back a long way. And from the early centuries of Christianity, it has been a custom among Christians to make the sign of the cross upon themselves with their hand. At first, it was done with the thumb on the brow, on rising in the morning, settling to eat, starting a journey and going to bed. Then it grew into the fuller gesture used today, from head to heart, and shoulder to shoulder. The Catholic west crosses itself from left shoulder to right, and the Orthodox east does it from right to left. See the right hand column for a link to the BBC's faith calendar. See also: The Catholic Year Calendar
Christians in London On this page: Christians in London History Until the Reformation in the early 16th century, all churches in England were Catholic. Then King Henry VIII broke away from the Catholic Church of Rome and established the Church of England with himself at its head. Although Henry built many new churches, a number of the churches now used by the Church of England were originally Catholic Churches which changed denomination during his reign. One such example is Southwark Cathedral, which was surrendered to Henry by its last Prior, Bartholomew Linsted in 1539, and then became a Protestant Anglican Cathedral. Until then, the entire English Church system was Catholic, governed from Rome by the Pope. Though for a long period Catholicism was not tolerated, many Catholic Churches and Cathedrals still survived. Today Catholicism Today, the Catholic Church in London is divided into two sections known as Archdioceses, each of which is presided over by an Archbishop. They are: Each Archdiocese is divided into parishes, which make up London's local Catholic communities which include High Barnet, Kentish Town, White City in Westminster, Clapham, Battersea and Maidstone in Southwark, and many more. The diversity in the cultural make up of London has grown and changed in recent years, mainly due to the rise in immigration. This rise has greatly affected the Catholic Church and its membership, increasing it significantly, particularly in the case of the Polish community. Traditionally, membership of the church has consisted mainly of Europeans, but today, the vast majority of Catholic congregations are made up of many different nationalities. These include people from Ireland, Nigeria, Ghana, Trinidad and Guyana and people from Latin America including Columbia, Brazil and Puerto Rico and other Spanish speaking countries with a smaller amount originating from Europe; Spain, Poland and Italy. Each of these communities brings with them their own cultural identity. In some Catholic Churches today you will find Mass spoken in a number of different languages; Nigerian, Chinese, Spanish and traditional Latin. There are Polish Catholic churches in London, which cater only for Polish people, with Mass being conducted entirely in Polish. Missionaries, who travelled around the world, spreading the word of God, converted many of these nations, to the Catholic faith. London's Catholic community continues to be active in carrying out charitable work both in London and the rest of England. A recent article in "The Times" newspaper claimed: "Catholics set to pass Anglicans as leading UK church" Because of migration from Catholic countries, a recent survey has shown that "Roman Catholicism is set to become the dominant religion in Britain for the first time since the Reformation". Ruth Gledhill, Religion Correspondent of "The Time" wrote on 15 February 2007: "Catholic parishes will swell by hundreds of thousands over the next few years after managing years of decline, according to a new report, as both legal and illegal migrants enter the country. The growth of Catholicism in Britain comes as the established Church of England and the Anglican provinces in Scotland, Wales and Ireland face continuing, if slow, decline. Average Sunday attendance of both churches stood even at nearly one million in 2005, according to the latest statistics available for England and Wales, but the attendance at Mass is expected to soar. The Catholic Church is the first port of call for thousands when they find themselves in difficulty, with up to 95 per cent from countries such as Poland being practising Catholics. Some churches find that they are being used as both job centres and social welfare offices. Most of the migrants settle in London, where some parishes are putting on Sunday Masses from 8am to 8pm to cope, the report, carried out by the Von Hugel Institute at Cambridge, found. Officially the Church is welcoming the migrants, but nearly all bishops and clergy have been taken by surprise by the influx, which took off last year and has yet to be reflected in official Mass attendance and membership figures. But they acknowledge that the immigration is changing the face of Catholicism across Britain." Protestantism In the UK today, Protestantism has taken many different directions, with three of the largest churches in London being the Church of England, the Methodist Church and the Baptist Church. (Select: Subdivisions and then Protestant from the left hand menu for more information). The Church of England in London is split into two diocese. Southwark looks after South London and East Surrey. The diocese has an estimated population of 2,358,000, covers 317 square miles, has 302 parishes and 377 churches. The Diocese of London serves North London. The diocese covers 277 square miles and 17 boroughs of Greater London north of the River Thames. In the majority of the dioceses, it is the vicar who is involved in the community as a whole. There has been a steady decline in attendance levels for the Church of England in recent years. This is indicative, in part, to the level of importance placed on the church in British culture today. There is, however, an increase in membership of minority communities. In contrast there has been a significant rise in the attendance figures of the other denominations such as the Methodists and Baptists. The Christian Orthodox Church in London The first group of Greek immigrants arrived in London around 1670. There were only about 100 of them. They were fleeing the Ottoman Empire and its persecution of the Greek Orthodox Church. Upon their arrival, they asked permission to set up a church in London and subsequently founded the first Greek Church in Britain in what is now Soho. Over the next 250 years, the immigration of Greeks to Britain was slow and steady, mostly from the Greek mainland. Most of them were well-off, and included members of the nobility, trying to escape the Ottoman rule which oppressed the Christians in the region. Religion was, and still is, a very important influence in Greek life and can be experienced in the cathedral of St Sophia (the Church of the Wisdom of God). Founded in 1877, it is in Moscow Road, Bayswater. And today, most Greek immigrants from the mainland try to settle in West London, as close as possible to this major place of worship. Free Church in London Not all churches are part of the main denominations. The Free Church consists of groupings of Christians who view their faith as being about the people who belong to them rather than particular types of buildings or organisations. The 'pastor' or leader of the group, does not necessarily have a recognised qualification for their role, though some have. Many lead a group in addition to doing a full-time job. Free Church meetings and services Bible believing Christians who believe the 'Church' meet together anywhere, even in rooms above public houses. Groups make their own decisions as to how they worship and conduct themselves and both genders carry equal weight. For example, around Deptford High Street in south-east London, there are nine or ten different small church meetings in various buildings in the area. For more information about such groups and their locations click on the following link: http://www.ichthus.org.uk
Subdivisions On this page: Diagram of subdivisions* *The term 'subdivisions' might be misleading in the case of Christianity, especially in the case of Protestantism where there is controversy about whether or not certain groups fit into this category at all, and even if those groups can be strictly regarded as Christians. The above list aims to indicate under which heading each group is generally known, but it is in no way definitive. **Mormons are placed in this category because they are viewed by some Christians as not being Christian at all. Some Protestants do not view Mormons as belonging to Protestantism. Introduction Christianity is divided into many different groups that fall under three main subdivisions: Roman Catholicism, Protestantism and Orthodoxy. The various types of Christianity place differing levels of importance upon scripture (the Bible, consisting of a New Testament, and an Old Testament which draws on ancient Jewish teachings). Orthodoxy and Catholicism tend to stress the importance of a life in the Church above that of personal religious experience and scripture, whereas Protestant groups emphasize the need for the study of scripture and the "saving" of the individual through a direct experience of divine grace. Protestantism emphasises ways in which individuals should communicate with God by removing ritual and placing less importance on the role of the priest. Although Protestantism started in Western Europe, it has spread to almost every nation. There are several branches of the Protestant Church (see below in section on Protestantism). The Anglican Communion is a world-wide group of churches that was established in 1534 by King Henry VIII who took control of the Church of England away from the Roman Catholic Pope. In 1549, Archbishop Thomas Cramner recast many Roman Catholic texts into the Anglican Book of Common Prayer. Today the Anglican Church embraces a diverse range of Christian practice, from elements of Roman Catholicism to a new evangelical church. In this respect the Anglican Church acts as a bridge between the Roman Catholic Church and the various Protestant Churches. In recent times the Church of England has proved to be revisionist. For example, after much debate and internal conflict among its members, it has admitted women to the priesthood. In some cases this has led to entire congregations joining the Roman Catholic Church in protest. The most common forms of Christianity, called denominations, are briefly described below. Catholicism The Catholic Church is the oldest institution in the western world. It can trace its history back almost 2000 years. The name 'Catholic' was in use in the Church from the earliest times and it has theological significance in respect of the universal character of Christ's redemptive act (passion, death and resurrection). The word is found within the Creed (the fundamental profession of faith used in baptism) and, together with the words 'holy', 'one' and 'apostolic' is regarded as one of the marks or characteristics of the Church. About half of the world's Christians are Roman Catholic. Today there are more than a billion Catholics in the world, spread across all five continents with particular concentrations in southern Europe, the United States, the Philippines and the countries of Central and South America. What binds this diverse group of people together is their faith in Jesus Christ and their obedience to the Pope in Rome. Catholics see this as the communion of each local bishop with the bishop of Rome (the Pope). Catholics believe that the Pope, based in Rome, is the direct successor to Saint Peter whom Christ appointed as the first head of His church. He therefore stands in what Catholics calls the apostolic succession, an unbroken line back to Peter and has supreme authority. The Catholic Church in Britain Development of the Catholic Church The Catholic Church is the oldest institution in the western world. For almost a thousand years, Catholicism was the only the form of Christianity. The break between the Church of Rome and other Christian faiths began with the split with Orthodox Christians in 1054 over questions of doctrine and the absolute authority and behaviour of the Pope and the Bishop of Constantinople. For similar reasons the Protestant churches went their own way in the sixteenth century. In the early part of the Sixteenth Century, the Western Church was deeply divided as a result of the Protestant Reformation. This movement should be seen in the broader political context and arose, in part, out of a genuine need to reform certain aspects of local practice. From a Catholic perspective, this reform needed and indeed did take place within the Church. The detail of this divisive period is not dealt with in this brief overview. Throughout its history the Church has used the convocation of councils, bringing together mainly bishops (and their advisors or representatives) to address issues that have arisen in the life and teaching of the Church. In this way, faced with challenges to orthodox belief the great councils of the first millennium defined the ChurchÕs dogma on the central tenets of faith including how it understood the person of Jesus and, within the limitation of human language, what could be said to have been revealed by God about His own nature (as Trinity). These principal teaching were formulated into the Nicene Creed, the product of the Council of Nicea. The Main doctrinal (ecumenical) councils of the first millennium were attended by and accepted as binding by Christians from East and West. Hence this body of teaching is now accepted by Catholic and Orthodox alike. The most recent major council in the Catholic Church was held between 1962 and 1965, this was called the Second Vatican Council. It was marked by new openness on the part of the Catholic Church. It resulted in teaching documents on how the Church understood itself, how it related to other Churches and Christian communities, and how it understood divine revelation. This teaching combined both a firm restatement of traditional teaching with insights gained from a wider movement (ressourcement) to rediscover the teaching of the first millennium. In this way, the Council was responding to a movement within the Church which had been gathering momentum throughout the first half of the Twentieth Century and which sought to combine the developments in theology made during the Middle Ages with the deep and lasting insights of the great Fathers of the Church (a name given to the Christian Theologians and thinkers of the first centuries after Christ. Today there are more than a billion Catholics in the world, spread across all five continents with particular concentrations in southern Europe, the United States, the Philippines and the countries of Central and South America. What binds this diverse group of people together is their faith in Jesus Christ and their unity (see marks of the Church) made visible in the communion of each local bishop with the Pope, the bishop of Rome. Structure Catholics share with other Christians a belief in the divinity of Jesus Christ. Catholicism, however, is distinct from other Christian churches in both its organisation and its teaching. The structure of the Catholic Church is often presented as a pyramid with the Pope at the top, filtering down to cardinals, archbishops, bishops and then, priests and laity . However this is not an accurate image of the Church. Each local church, known as a diocese, comprises a gathering or family of Christians, led by a bishop who is assisted by priests. Deacons are ordained to serve the bishops, and on his behalf, the priests. Appointment of a Pope Because of the size and spread of the Church, it is practically impossible to call together all the bishops as a college. As a consequence, a number of bishops and priests are appointed as cardinals and, in effect, they form the body which takes responsibility on the death of a Pope for electing a new Pope. There is nothing to rule that these cardinals must choose someone of the rank of Cardinal, but in practice this usually happens. Traditionally clerics were seen as having a higher calling than the laity but, since the landmark Second Vatican Council, both laity and clergy have been regarded as jointly 'the people of God'. That same reforming council stressed the need for popes and bishops to consult widely before pronouncing on matters of faith, but in practice they retain the unfettered power to teach on such questions. All major decisions rest with the Pope and his advisors. Doctrines specific to Catholicism Catholic doctrine is based on the scriptures and on the church's own traditions. It believes that its doctrines were revealed to the apostles and have been preserved in a continuous tradition ever since. There are several doctrinal issues where the Catholic Church has a distinct position Real Presence It is perhaps helpful to note that, for Catholics, Christianity is based on a relationship; it is not simply a moral code, nor is it an intellectual assent to a set of propositions. It is based on the individual entering into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ (therefore with God), through the sacrament (ritual) of baptism. In baptism the individual is incorporated into the Church which is the Body of Christ. This phrase seeks to express the mystery of the unity of the Church as being much more than a association of the like-minded but rather a visible sign of a radical belonging to God as do the physical members of a body to the person within. The community of Christians gathers to celebrate the Eucharist (instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper). This act brings the believer into the real presence of the risen Christ in accordance with his promise to the apostles. The Church has always solemnly accepted Jesus? statement that the bread was become his body and the wine his blood in this way, the Church maintains that, through the celebration of the Eucharist Christ is made present par excellence under the appearance of bread and wine. The par excellence character of this form of presence alerts us to the fact that the Church also maintains the reality of Christ's presence in other ways: the assembly of the people (constituting the body of Christ); the person of the Priest (who speaks the words of Christ); and in the proclaimed word (Holy Scripture). Sometimes you will hear the word 'transubstantiation' used in connection with the Eucharist. This is a word that has been in use within the Church since the Twelfth Century as a way of describing the means by which Christ's presence is effected in the Sacrament. It seeks to express the seemingly paradoxical facts of the substantial (underlying and real) presence of Jesus and the outward (superficial) appearance of bread and wine. If you think this is complicated, try explaining precisely how and when to the minute you fell in love with your partner! There are some things that lie beyond the capacity of our understanding though we know them. The reason for including this matter here is that you may be confronted with situations for instance searching and church building when you will want to know the sensitivities that attach to particular areas. In a Catholic Church you will need to exercise care and should recognise the importance of the place called the sanctuary and, specifically, the tabernacle. The Sacraments Catholicism is a faith that revolves around the seven sacraments - The importance of receiving Christ's body and blood at communion as the bread of life is central. Catholic Devotions The Rosary (from Latin rosarium, "rose garden"), is a traditional popular Roman Catholic devotion and also an Anglican devotion. The term denotes both a set of prayer beads used in the devotion and the devotional prayer itself, which combines vocal (or silent) prayer and Meditation centered around sequences of reciting the Lord's Prayer followed by ten recitations of the "Hail Mary" prayer and a single recitation of "Glory Be to the Father"; each of these sequences is known as a decade. Until the recent optional addition of five additional Mysteries by Pope John Paul II, the Rosary had been prayed in three parts of five Mysteries assigned throughout the week. Today the Rosary can be prayed in four parts, one part each day, with the "Mysteries" (which are meditated or contemplated on during the prayers) being rotated daily. What distinguishes the Rosary from other forms of prayer is that, along with the vocal prayers, it includes a series of meditations. Each decade of the Rosary is said while meditating on one of the "Mysteries" of redemption. The Virgin Mary is often symbolized as a rose. For the method and content of how to pray the Rosary click on the following link: http://medjugorje.org/rosary.ht The Stations of the Cross Around the inside of most Catholic Churches you will see a series of pictures depicting aspects of the crucifixion of Jesus. These pictures are used as a basis for a devotion in the form of a meditation in which each station is visited as a way of accompanying Jesus on that final journey. It is most commonly celebrated in Lent. Saints Saints are those individuals who Christians regard as special because they have lived particularly holy lives. Some of them have died for their Christian faith. The Catholic Church declares people saints after their death in a process called canonisation. occurs at the conclusion of a long process requiring extensive proof that the person proposed for canonization lived, and died, in such a way that he or she is worthy to be recognized as a saint. Originally, however, individuals were recognized as saints without any formal process, as happened, for instance, in the case of Saint Peter and the Virgin Mary. Other Christian Churches still follow the older practice (see, for instance, below on Eastern Orthodox practice). Recent History The history of the Catholic Church is long and complex. In more recent years it has seen substantial growth in some parts of the world, but decline in others. Its previous Pope, the charismatic Polish-born John Paul II, was widely hailed as the 'spark from heaven' who ignited the revolutions that swept away the Iron Curtain in the late 1980s. His was one of the longest pontificates among over 260 popes throughout the ages. Today in the developing world, its congregations grow rapidly as do its seminaries and convents. In Europe and North and South America, however, numbers of churchgoers have dwindled and papal authority has been questioned. There has been a marked exodus from the priesthood and female religious orders since the 1970s. Some traditional ministries in running schools and hospitals have had to be abandoned for lack of clergy and nuns, while a series of scandals involving first the finances of the Vatican and later the behaviour of paedophile priests have dented its moral authority. Diet Roman Catholics are encouraged to carry out an act of penance each Friday. Traditionally, this included abstinence from eating meat. Although this is still the practice for many Catholics it is less widely observed today.There are a several days of particular penitential focus during the year, primarily Ash Wednesday and Good Friday, and Catholics are encouraged to make their own acts of penance and fasting during Lent and Advent. It is important to understand that older Roman Catholics may wish to adhere strictly to the traditional rule. It would be usual for them to eat fish on Fridays, and fish is also a suitable alternative to meat on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Link: Catholic Church in England and Wales Catholicism and The Orthodox Church The Catholic Church, as well as the Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox Churches, and the Assyrian Church of the East, each consider themselves to be the universal and true Catholic Church. Although over the years there have been quite bitter disputes, more recently there has been a marked raprochement among these closely related churches. Pope John Paul II spoke of the Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church as the two great lungs of Christianity, each necessary to the other. However, there is continuing division on certain issues. Andrew Bayes explains: The patriarchs of these Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox Churches are known as autocephalous hierarchs, which roughly means that each is independent of the direct over authority of another bishop, although they are still subject, according to their distinct traditions, either to the synod of bishops of each one's jurisdiction, or to a common decision of the patriarchs of their own communion. They are willing to concede a primacy of honour to the Roman See, but not of authority, nor do they accept its claim to universeral and immediate jurisdiction. Catholic Religious Orders While there is a strong focus on unity within Catholicism, this should not be confused with uniformity. Indeed there is a long tradition of celebrating diversity and many of our most common traditions particularly surrounding the major feasts of Christmas and Easter have grown out of the desire to adopt customs and practices that were seen as capable of communicating or celebrating some aspect of truth. Perhaps the area where diversity is most noticeable is among the various religious orders within the Church. Several of these have been in existence for many centuries and take their name from a great founding saint. Hence, Franciscans were formed by St Francis of Assisi, Dominicans by St Dominic, and Benedictines by St Benedict. There are many others besides; some of these are described below. In each case the order seeks to follow a particular spiritual path or rule set out be the founder. These orders are not separate from the Catholic Church and members are bound by the same discipline and authority that guides all Catholics, however, they are different spiritualities with different patterns of prayer and different vocations or ways of living, covering everything from the silent and austere orders such as the Carthusians to the Franciscans of the Renewal who live in small communities in impoverished urban environment and who take seriously their vows of poverty and charity Jesuits http://www.jesuit.org.uk http://www.jesuit.org.uk/london.htm History The Society of Jesus is a Christian religious order of the Roman Catholic Church in service to the universal Church, whose members are called Jesuits, Soldiers of Christ, and Foot soldiers of the Pope, because the founder, Saint Ignatius of Loyola, was a knight before becoming a priest. Today, Jesuits are the largest male religious order of the Roman Catholic Church. As of 1 January 2007, Jesuits in the world number 19,216 (13,491 priests, 3,049 scholastic students, 1,810 brothers and 866 novices). The average age of the Jesuits in 2007 is 57.3 : 63.4 for priests, 29.8 for scholastics and 65.5 for Brothers. Jesuit priests and brothers are engaged in ministries in 112 nations on six continents. No work, if it has an evangelical perspective, is closed to them, but they are best known in the fields of education (schools, colleges, universities, seminaries, theological faculties), intellectual research, and cultural pursuits. They are also known in missionary work and direct evangelization, social justice and human rights activities, interreligious dialogue, and other 'frontier' ministry. The Society of Jesus is consecrated under the patronage of Madonna Della Strada, a title of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and it is led by a Superior General, currently Peter Hans Kolvenbach. The headquarters of the Society, called General Curia, is in Rome. The history curia of St Ignatius is now part of the Collegio del Gesù attached to the Church of the Gesù, the Jesuit Mother Church.h dialogue, as well as a number of other works.
The Jesuit Refugee Service (London Bridge) The Jesuit Refugee Service is an international Catholic non-governmental organisation, at work in over 50 countries, with a mission to accompany, serve and defend the rights of refugees and forcibly displaced people. The purpose of JRS UK is to accompany, to serve and to advocate on behalf of all asylum seekers from their first arrival until they are satisfactorily settled. This work is carried out in collaboration with other JRS offices round the world, other Church and secular organisations, voluntary and governmental, which are active in the same field.
Director: Louise Zanre Jesuits In Mayfair Farm Street Church is located in Mayfair in Central London with a second entrance on Mount Street. There are four weekday Masses and the provision of Reconciliation. On Sundays, the Masses include a 9.30 Family Mass with a special instruction for children, and an 11.00 Mass sung in Latin. Jesuits In Kensington Heythrop College in Kensington was established in this country by Jesuits in the 18th century. It is a college of the University of London, specialising in Philosophy and Theology. The college offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate degrees and diplomas. Within the college are a number of institutes and centres, including the Centre for Christianity and Inter-religious Dialogue and the Institute of Religion, Ethics and Public Life.
Principal: Dr John McDade SJ
Monastic Orders There are various monastic orders. For further information about them click on the titles below and visit their own websites: English Order of Benedictines Benedictine congregations in England Cistercians, sometimes called the White Monks Dominicans Franciscans top Opus Dei
http://www.opusdei.org Opus Dei is a Catholic institution founded by Saint Josemaría Escriváin 1928. It is a small, but growing organisation with around 85,000 members worldwide and about 500 members in the UK. It has become more widely known due to the publicity it has received from the novel by Dan Brown, The Da Vinci Code, and the subsequent film made in 2003. Since then, enquiries for UK membership have been rising and it has been claimed that the organisation receives around 50 enquiries a month from people wishing to join. In 1950 Opus Dei's constitution was published. It states: "No one must reveal to anyone that they themselves belong to Opus Dei." Opus Dei was given final and complete approval by Pope Pius XII. Critics accuse the organisation of being secretive and elitist but members wholeheartedly reject this. Membership There are three types of members of Opus Dei — numeraries, associates and supernumeraries. Associates and numeraries make up about 25% to 30% of members. They are celibate and live with other members. On occasion they practice corporal mortification — the most controversial of Opus Dei's traditions. Corporal mortification
Corporal mortification is the practice of physically enduring a minor amount of suffering. Some of the celibate members of Opus Dei sometimes practice traditional Catholic penances such as using the cilice (a light metal chain with prongs which is worn round the thigh) and the discipline (a woven cotton strap). These are practices which Opus Dei states Catholics have used for centuries. The Opus Dei website states the motivation for these voluntary penances is to imitate Christ and to join him in his redemptive sacrifice (cf. Matthew 16:24), and that they can also be a way to suffer in solidarity with the many poor and deprived people in the world. The majority of Opus Dei members are supernumeraries. They account for around 70-75% of members and they are usually non-celibate, married men or women. Protestantism 'Protestant' was the name given in the Middle Ages to those western Christians who felt that the Church needed to be reformed. They protested against what they saw as corruption and the tight control exercised by the clergy. They also wanted to read the Bible in their own, everyday language instead of Hebrew, Latin or Greek, languages that were accessible only to the learned. They wanted people to be able to read the Word of God for themselves, to have less ritual and to have to rely less on the priestood. Churches in the Protestant tradition include Lutherans, Baptists, Presbyterians, the Society of Friends (Quakers), the Salvation Army, the Methodists, etc. The Pentecostalists, including many African-led groups, show much of the fastest growth in Christianity in Britain. Protestant churches Click the links below for more detailed information regarding the individual Protestant churches; you can return to this page by using your Back button. The Orthodox Church The word Orthodox takes its meaning from the Greek orthos ('right') and the word doxa ('belief'). Hence the word Orthodox means correct belief or right thinking. Christians of the Orthodox Churches believe that they have kept most faithfully to the original message taught by the first followers of Jesus, without adding to it or taking anything away from it. The Eastern Orthodox Church is so called because the Church descends from the Christianity of the Eastern Roman Empire and began in its eastern capital, Constantinople, now Istanbul. The Russian and Greek Orthodox Churches are the most widely known, but there are Coptic Orthodox Christians from Egypt who also have churches in Britain as do Armenian Orthodox Christians as well as Christians from other smaller Orthodox Churches in the Middle East and the Mar Tomar Church in India. The Eastern Orthodox Church is a self-governing body of Christians adhering to a pure and unbroken line from the irst days of the Apostles and the disciples of Jesus. The historical line is maintained by the unbroken succession of Bishops from the Apostles until the present day (known as the apostolic succession) from each generation of priests to the next. The Holy Spirit is seen as present in and as the guide to the church working through the whole body of the church, as well as through priests and Bishops. Essentially the Orthodox Church shares much with the other Christian churches in the belief that God revealed himself in Jesus Christ, and a belief in the incarnation of Christ, his crucifixion and resurrection. The Orthodox Church differs substantially in the way of life and worship. The Orthodox Church has no single leader analogous to the Pope, although it is led in each country by a senior archbishop called a Patriarch. All Orthodox services are rich in both oral and visual presentation and involve singing and bells, with incense, candles and glowing icons. Saints The Orthodox Church has a tradition of saints, but does not have follow same formal process as the Catholic church to canonize them. It rather follows the older practice by which deceased individuals are recognized as saints without any formal process, as happened, for instance, in the case of the Virgin Mary and Saint Peter. Greek Orthodox Church The name 'Greek Orthodox Church' was initially established because Greek was the principal language used in the first days of the Christian church and hence not necessarily just by those living in Greece! Russian Orthodox Church In the 9th century Greek missionaries brought Christianity to Russia via the neighbouring Byzantine empire. In 957 the Regent of Kiev was baptised in Constantinople. The membership of the Russian Orthodox Church today is said to number between 40 and 80 million and is the largest Orthodox Church. Originally the Russian Church was part of the Patriarchate of Constantinople but in 1051 a Russian primate was established and the Russian church began to flourish. By the 12th century the Russian Church became a unifying force for the Russian people at a time of great division. By 1448 the Church had become independent from the Patriarchate of Constantinople. The Church became very much linked to Tsarist Russia and hence was seen as an enemy to the Bolsheviks who came to power in 1917 as it had defended the old regime before and after the October Revolution. Throughout the last years of the 20th century the Russian Orthodox Church maintained a strained relationship with the state as "for ideological reasons" churches were closed. In recent years the Church has found greater freedom to worship. St Basil's Cathedral in Moscow was built between 1555 and 1560 and is the perhaps the best known most notable cathedral of the Russian Orthodox Church. St Basil's Cathedral, Moscow. The Great Schism The doctrine of the Christian church was established over the centuries at Councils dating from as early as the year 325 where the leaders from all the Christian communities were represented. The Eastern Church recognizes the authority of the Councils of Nicea 325, Constantinople I (381), Ephesus (431) Chalcedon (451) Constantinople II (553), Constantinople III (680) and Nicaea II (787). Although initially the Eastern and Western Christians shared the same faith, the two traditions began to divide after the seventh Ecumenical Council in 787 CE and is commonly believed to have finally split over the conflict with Rome in the so called Great Schism in 1054. In particular this happened over the papal claim to supreme authority and the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. The break became final with the failure of the Council of Florence in the fifteenth century. However, in the minds of most Orthodox, a decisive moment was the sack of Constantinople in 1204 during the (Western Christian) Fourth Crusade. The sacking of Constantinople by the Crusaders eventually led to the loss of this Byzantine capital to the Muslim Ottomans in 1453. This has never been forgotten. The divisions between the East and Western Churches happened gradually over the centuries as the Roman Empire fragmented. Eventually, while the Eastern Churches maintained the principle that the Church should keep to the local language of the community, Latin became the language of the Western Church. Until the schism the five great patriarchal sees were Rome, Constantinople, Alexandria, Antioch and Jerusalem. After the break with Rome Orthodoxy became 'Eastern' and the dominant expression of Christianity in the eastern Mediterranean, much of Asia Minor, Russian and Balkans.
Russian Orthodox Church In Great Britain http://www.sourozh.org/web/Welcome The Diocese of Sourozh is the diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church, Moscow Patriarchate, in Great Britain and Ireland. The diocese takes its name from an ancient see in Crimea (present-day Sudak), used to designate the diocese of the Russian Orthodox Church in Great Britain and Ireland. The patron saint of the diocese is St Stephen of Sourozh, archbishop of the see in the eighth century and confessor of the faith during the iconoclast controversy. The Diocese of Sourozh was established by Metropolitan Anthony of Sourozh in 1962, and lives according to statutes drawn up under his guidance. It is composed of parishes formed into five deaneries throughout Great Britain, and is open to people of all ethnic backgrounds. The diocese is currently headed by Archbishop Innokenty of Korsun, and administration of the diocese is entrusted to Bishop Elisey of Bogorodsk, together with the diocesan clergy.
The Most Reverend Anatoly Life and worship Eastern Christianity stresses a way of life and belief that is expressed particularly through worship. By maintaining the correct form of worshipping God, passed on from the very beginnings of Christianity. Eastern Christians believe that they confess the true doctrine of God in the right (orthodox) way. The Bible of the Orthodox Church is the same as that of most Western Churches, except that its Old Testament is based not on the Hebrew, but on the ancient Jewish translation into Greek called the Septuagint. The wisdom of the Fathers of the Church is central to the Orthodox way of life as today's inheritors of the "true faith and church" passed on in its purest form. By maintaining the purity of the inherited teachings of the Apostles, believers are made more aware of the inspiration of the Holy Spirit being present both in history and at the present day. A Life of Prayer At the centre of worship and belief is the Eucharist surrounded by the Divine Offices or the Cycle of Prayer. These prayers are sung particularly at Sunset and Dawn and at certain other times during the day and night. Personal prayer plays an important part in the life of an Orthodox Christian. For many Orthodox Christians an important form of prayer is the Jesus Prayer. This is a sentence which is repeated many times; for example: "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner." The aim of this repetition is to enable the person to concentrate solely on God. The strict life of a monk or nun is seen as an important expression of faith. Monasticism is a central part of the Orthodox faith. Mount Athos in north-eastern Greece is described as the centre of Orthodox Monasticism. It is the only place in Greece completely dedicated to prayer and worship of God. For this reason, it is called the Holy Mountain. Most monasteries are coenobitic: living a communal life. The peninsula is divided into twenty self-governed territories. Each territory consists of a major monastery and some other monastic establishments that surround it (cloisters, cells, cottages, seats, hermitages). For monk and nun alike, their spiritual life should follow the same way of living that all Christians try to achieve by following God's commandants. While not being against marriage, it is generally accepted that celibacy in the Church allows for a closer understanding of the Christian life away from worldly things. Fasting and prayer Fasting and prayer play an important part of the Orthodox Christian life. Orthodox believe that fasting can be the 'foundation of all good'. The discipline of training the body can enable a believer to concentrate the mind totally on preparation for prayer and things spiritual. There are four main fasting periods: Also all Wednesdays and Fridays are expected to be days of fasting. Even though today the call to fast is not always strictly followed, nevertheless many devout Orthodox Christians do undergo a time of genuine hardship and it has been said that: Orthodox Christians in the twentieth century - laity as well as monks - fast with a severity for which there is no parallel in western Christendom...Timothy Ware, The Orthodox Church
Sacred Mysteries (sacraments) The following seven principal Mysteries or sacraments are at the heart of the Eastern Orthodox church. Baptism and Chrismation The first two are Baptism and Chrismation. Baptism of adults and infants is by immersion in water three times in the name of the Trinity and is both the initiation into the church and a sign of forgiveness of sins. Chrismation follows immediately after baptism and is by anointing with holy oil called Chrism. Chrismation is followed by Holy Communion. This means that in the Orthodox Church babies and children are fully communicant members of the Church. Chrism can only be consecrated by the Patriarch, or chief Bishop, of the local church. Some of the old Chrism is mixed with the new, thus linking the newly baptised to their forbears in the faith. The Chrism is used to anoint different parts of the body with a sign of the cross. The forehead, eyes, nostrils, mouth and ears, the chest, the hands and the feet are all anointed. The priest says the words, "The seal of the gift of the Holy Spirit" as he makes the sign of the cross at each point. The newly baptised Christian is now a layperson, a full member of the people of God (the 'Royal Priesthood'). All Christians are called to be witnesses to the Truth. Chrismation is linked to Pentecost in that the same Holy Spirit which descended on the apostles descends on the newly baptised. The Eucharist The Eucharist, usually called the Divine Liturgy, fulfils the command of Jesus Christ at the Last Supper: "Do this in remembrance of me". As in many Western churches the Eucharist is a service consisting, in the first part, of hymns, prayers, and readings from the New Testament, and in the second the solemn offering and consecration of leavened bread and wine mixed with water, followed by the reception of Holy Communion. The Orthodox believe that by the consecration the bread and wine are truly changed into the Body and Blood of Christ. Communion is given in a spoon containing both the bread and the wine and is received standing. A sermon is usually preached either after the reading of the Gospel or at the end of the service. At the end of the Liturgy blessed, but not consecrated bread is distributed to the congregation, and non-Orthodox are often invited to share in this as a gesture of fellowship. Both parts of the Liturgy contain a procession. At the Little Entrance, the Book of the Gospels is solemnly carried into the sanctuary and at the Great Entrance the bread and wine are carried to the altar for the Prayer of Consecration and Holy Communion. The prayer of consecration is always preceded by the proclamation of the Nicene Creed, frequently by the whole congregation. The Orthodox Church lays particular emphasis on the role of the Holy Spirit in the Eucharist, and in the Prayer of Consecration calls on the Father to send down his Holy Spirit to effect the change of the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Christ. There are four different liturgies used throughout the year: Orders Although the church is a self-governing community the church recognises the diaconate, the presbyterate or priesthood and the episcopate (bishops). The Bishops in the Orthodox church are considered to be the direct successors of the original Apostles and they are very much a unifying focus in the church. Priests in the Orthodox Church are permitted to be married but may not marry after ordination. Bishops must always be celibate. Orthodox priests normally do not shave their beards according to the Bible.
You shall not round off the hair on your temples or mar the edges of your beard. Penance All Orthodox Churches use the Mystery of Penance, or Confession, but in Greek speaking churches only priests who have been blessed by the Bishop as 'Spiritual Fathers' are allowed to hear confession. Children may be admitted to the sacrament of Confession as soon as they are old enough to know the difference between right and wrong. Through this sacrament sinners may receive forgiveness. They enter into confession with a priest often in an open area in the church (not in a confessional as in the Roman Catholic tradition nor separated by a grille). Both priest and penitent stand and a cross and book of the Gospels or an icon is placed in front of the penitent with the priest standing slightly apart. This stresses that the priest is simply a witness and that forgiveness comes from God not the priest. The priest will then hear the confession and perhaps give advice. After confession the penitent kneels before the priest, who places his stole on the penitent's head saying a prayer of absolution. Anointing of the sick In Greek-speaking churches this is performed annually for the whole congregation during Holy Week on the eve of Holy Wednesday. Everyone is encouraged to come forward for anointing with the special oil whether they are physically ill or not. This is because it is generally held that all are in need of spiritual healing even if they are physically well. Anointing of the sick can also be performed on individuals. People sometimes keep the blessed oil of the sick in their homes. The Church anoints the sick with oil, following the teaching of St James in his Epistle (5:14-15), "Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint (him) with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed any sins he will be forgiven."
This sacrament,', remarks Sergius Bulgakov, 'has two faces: one turns towards healing, the other towards the liberation from illness by death. Marriage Marriage is celebrated through the rite of crowning, showing the importance of eternal union of the couple. Although marriage is seen as a permanent commitment in life and in death, remarriage and divorce are permitted in certain circumstances. Icons Of great importance to the Orthodox Christians is the of Icons. These beautiful and elaborate paintings are described as "windows into the kingdom of God". They are used in worship both in the decoration of the church and for private homes. The icon is seen as both a form of prayer and a means to prayer. An icon is usually an elaborate, two dimensional painting. Often with a gold leaf background, they are usually on wood. They depict Christ, his All-holy Mother, the Saints, scenes from the Bible and the lives of the Saints. The iconographer prepares for the painting of an icon with prayer and fasting. By worshipping at the Icon the Orthodox Christian enters into a sacred place with God. The icon is venerated and often candles and oil lamps are burnt before them. The worshipper kisses the icon making the sign of the Cross and may kneel or prostrate before it. In most Orthodox churches the Altar, or sanctuary, is separated from the main body of the church by a solid screen (known as the iconostasis), pierced by three doors, the one in the centre being known as the Holy door. The screen is decorated with icons, of which the principal ones are those on either side of the Holy Door of Christ and the Mother of God. These are normally flanked by ones of St John the Baptist and of the Saint, or Feast, to which the church is dedicated. In Russian churches the iconostasis normally forms a solid wall decorated with four or five rows of icons according to an elaborate traditional arrangement. The composer Sir John Tavener is one of Britain's most famous followers of Orthodox Christianity The Orthodox calendar After World War I various Orthodox churches, beginning with the Patriarchate of Constantinople, began to abandon the Julian calendar or Old Calendar, and adopt a form of the Gregorian calendar or New Calendar. The Julian calendar is, at the present time, thirteen days behind the Gregorian Calendar. Today, many Orthodox churches (with the exception of Jerusalem, Russia, Serbia, and Mount Athos) use the New, Gregorian Calendar for fixed feasts and holy days but the Julian calendar for Easter and movable feasts. In this way all the Orthodox celebrate Easter together. The Orthodox Church calendar begins on September 1st and ends on August 31st. Each day is sacred: each is a saint's day, so at least one saint is venerated daily. Orthodox Christmas Christmas is celebrated by Orthodox Christians in Central and Eastern Europe and throughout the world on the 7th of January in the Gregorian Calendar, 13 days after other Christians. In the East, Christmas is preceded by a 40 day fast beginning on November 15th. This is a time of reflection, self-restraint and inner healing in the sacrament of confession. Usually, on Christmas Eve, observant Orthodox Christians fast till late evening, until the first star appears. When the star is seen, people lay the table ready for the Christmas supper. On Christmas Day people takes part in divine liturgy after which many walk in procession to seas, rivers and lakes. Everyone gathers around in the snow for outdoor ceremonies to bless the water. Sometimes rivers are frozen, so people make holes in the ice to bless the water. Some take water home to bless their houses. Then a great feast is held indoors where everyone joins in to eat, drink and enjoy themselves. A Orthodox Russian custom is to serve Christmas cakes and to sing songs. The tradition is mixed with other pagan traditions of ancient Russia such that people may visit their neighbours in disguises, dance, sing and ask for presents, similar to trick-or-treating. There are similarities, as well as differences, between the Eastern and Western celebration of Christmas. The Eastern Christmas has a very strong family and social appeal just as it does in the West. It brings people of all generations together to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Unlike the West, where Christmas ranks supreme, in the East it is Easter, centred on the cross and the resurrection of Christ, which is the supreme festival of the year. Also, Eastern Orthodox Christmas lacks the commercial side that is so typical to the West. Other Mormons Because of the difficulty that some Christians have in defining Mormonism and whether it should, or should not, be included within Protestantism, or even Christianity, it is placed in this section. Mormonism is also known as The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It was founded in 1830 in New York State by Joseph Smith and has over 12 million members world-wide, including 190,000 in the UK. Smith was subsequently murdered and the Mormons fled to Salt Lake City, which Brigham Young called a Kingdom of Heaven on Earth. The Church is centred on Christ, but has substantial differences in belief to the Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox Christian Churches. The top level leadership of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints consists of the First Presidency and the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. They are based in Salt Lake City in the US state of Utah Mormonism in the UK The number of Mormons in the UK has risen from 6,500 in the 1960s to over 180,000 today. Although the first Mormon Temple in Britain (At Newchapel in Surrey) was not built until 1958, the church has had a foothold in this country almost since it was founded by Joseph Smith in the US Deification Mormons believe that human beings can become god Pre-Mortal Existence Mormons believe that every human being has an eternal life stretching either side of life on earth God Mormons believe in the Holy Trinity Mormon attitudes to other Faiths Mormons do not believe that they are the only people inspired by God and so have a tolerant attitude to other faiths. Living Prophets Mormons believe in living prophets - human beings who are prophets of God in the same way as Abraham, Moses, Isaiah, and the Apostles. They point out that Christ himself said that he would send prophets after him. The Restored Church Mormons believe that theirs is the church that restores Christianity to the form it had in the time of the Apostles. Salvation and Atonement For Mormons the ideal of salvation is to live forever as a family in the highest heaven of the celestial kingdom. Since there is no original sin, human beings are not inherently evil. But they often choose to do bad things, and so commit sins. Weekly worship - Sunday Like many other Christian churches Mormons regard Sunday as the day of rest and day of worship. Most Mormon families will spend a substantial part of Sunday in meetings and worship with their community. Monday is often reserved for Family Home Evening Festivals Mormons celebrate two religious festivals: Easter and Christmas. An additional festival is Pioneer Day, on 24 July. This celebrates the arrival of the first Latter-day Saint pioneers in the Salt Lake Valley in 1847. Communal worship Communal worship is informal and does not involve ceremonials or priests. It takes place in a simple Chapel, which has no religious statues or pictures Fasting Church members fast each month (on the first Sunday) by going without food and drink for two consecutive meals
Prayer Mormons pray directly to God the Father and do not pray to any other being or to anything made by man or God. Place of Worship - The Temple The Mormon Temple is not used for the regular weekly worship of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. It is reserved for some of the Church's most holy ceremonies. Tithing One of the ancient customs revived by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is tithing, i.e. giving 10% of one's annual income to the Church. Priesthood The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints does not have a professional priesthood like the Roman Catholic and other Christian churches. Priesthood is the authority to act in God's name. It can only be acquired by the laying on of hands by someone who has priestly authority. Bishops The post of bishop is regarded as a great responsibility, as the bishop is responsible for the functions of the ward which help the members on their journey to Christ and eternal life. Deacons Men are usually ordained deacon at the age of 12, at which time they receive the Aaronic Priesthood. Missionaries The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints encourages all young men who are physically and mentally fit to serve as missionaries. Young women can also serve, but they are not under the same obligation as young men. Older couples can also do mission work. Baptism Mormons believe, like other Christians, that baptism is essential if a person is to receive salvation and return to live with their Heavenly Father. However, they take this a stage further in believing that a dead person can be baptised by proxy, which means that a Mormon can be baptised on behalf of someone who has already died. Weddings Marriage is central to Mormon life. They believe that the family unit can continue beyond the grave and that God has ordered them to have children. Mormons also believe that marriage is part of the plan of salvation. They see it as essential for exaltation, and believe that unmarried people cannot reach the highest level of the Celestial Kingdom after their death. A marriage can only last for ever if it is performed in a Mormon Temple by a person with the priestly authority to do so. This ceremony is called "sealing" and takes about 20 minutes. Funerals Mormons prefer to bury their dead rather than cremate them. Holy Texts There are four holy books:
1. The Holy Bible Mormons use the Authorised King James Version of the Bible.
2. The Book of Mormon They believe that the Book of Mormon tells the story of God's dealings with the ancient inhabitants of the American Continent, including a visit by the risen Jesus to the people of the New World. Mormon was an ancient American prophet who compiled the history of the ancient civilisation from old records. The document was inscribed on plates of gold which Mormon's son Moroni buried for safety in what is now New York State. Moroni returned in 1823 as an angel and showed Joseph Smith (founder of the Church) where the plates were hidden. Smith translated the plates into the Book of Mormon, which was first published in 1830. Mormons believe that the Book of Mormon, unlike the Bible, was translated correctly and is the unaltered word of God.
3. Pearl of Great Price It also includes his translation of Matthew 24, the story of his first vision, and the Thirteen Articles of Faith. The book was first published in 1851 in Liverpool, England, and became officially regarded as scripture in 188 Free Church Not all churches are part of the main denominations. The Free Church consists of groupings of Christians who view their faith as being about the people who belong to them rather than particular types of buildings or organisations. (see in more detail by selecting Christians in London from the left hand margin and then selecting Free Church). Many free churches are aligned to the Evangelical Alliance.
Places of worship On this page: Cathedral, church, chapel, meeting house A Cathedral is the principal Christian church building of a bishop's diocese. Most cathedrals or larger churches are built in the form of a cross, with the longer axis of the cross aligned east-west. The main altar is normally at the eastern end of the church, frequently under a large, stained, glass window, and the entrance is either at the western end or through one of the two shorter, north-south arms of the cross. Smaller churches may be a simpler, rectangular shape, missing the cross-pieces, but will still be lined up in the same direction, with the altar to the east. A church building and its focal point will tell you a lot about the theology of the people who built it. The following layouts give a general idea of different types of churches for comparison. Eastern
Catholic
Protestant Meeting
For information on the hierarchy of clergy in the different Christian groups and denominations click on the following link: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minister_of_religion
Holy texts On this page: Holy Texts The Bible The Christian holy book is the Bible, which has two main sections, the Old Testament and the New Testament. The Old Testament is the original Hebrew Bible, the sacred scriptures of the Jewish faith, written at different times between about 1200 and 165 BC. The New Testament books were written by Christians in the first century AD. There are many different translations of the Bible in use today. They range from the King James version (pictured above), first printed in 1611 in the reign of King James I, which is generally used by older established congregations and many more recently-published versions. The Catholic Church recognises other texts that are not recognised by Protestants. These are known by the Catholic church as Deuterocanonicals and by Protestants as the Apocrypha. The Book of Common Prayer and The Common Worship Services and Prayer There are two books which are central to the Church of England and the Anglican religion. These are the Book of Common Prayer and The Common Worship: Services and Prayer. The first contains services of morning, evening and night prayer, which are central points of worship. The Church of England's doctrine can also be found there as well the ancient creeds and the Thirty-Nine Articles. This book cannot be altered without the approval of Parliament. The second book is an updated version of the previous one, with the central theme being that the life of a Christian is a journey, one that non-Christians can also join.
Prayer On this page: Prayer Prayer is the means by which Christians communicate with their God The Catholic Church describes prayer as "raising one's mind and heart to God". The Church of England describes it as "offering ourselves to be in some small way channels of love and peace in God's world". The emphasis of the faith is on prayer and the seven sacraments (baptism, penance, confirmation, the Eucharist, holy orders, matrimony, and the anointing of the sick). The Eucharist commemorates Christ's last supper by the consecration of bread and wine. Christian worship involves praising God in music and speech, readings from scripture, prayers of various sorts, a sermon, and various holy ceremonies (often called sacraments) such as the Eucharist (also known as Communion). The New Testament records that Jesus taught his disciples how to pray and that he encouraged them to address God as Father. Christians believe that they continue this tradition. Sometimes the prayers are formal and part of a ritual laid down for hundreds of years. Others are personal and spontaneous, and come from personal or group need. Whilst prayer is often directed to God as Father, as taught by Jesus, some traditions encourage prayer to God through intermediaries such as saints and martyrs. Prayers through Mary, as the mother of God, are central to some churches and form a traditional part of their worship. Weekly prayer Christian worship grew out of Jewish worship. Jesus was a religious Jew who attended the synagogue and celebrated Jewish festivals, and his disciples were familiar with Jewish ritual and tradition. The first obvious divergence from Judaism was making Sunday the sabbath day instead of Saturday. This is the day on which it is believed that Jesus rose from the dead. Sunday Services Church services, which are held on a Sunday, the Christian Sabbath (except for Seventh Day Adventists, who observe Saturday as Sabbath) divide into two general types: Eucharistic services and services of the Word. Both types of service include hymns, readings and prayers. The Eucharistic service focuses on the act of Holy Communion. The service of the Word does not include this rite, but instead features a lengthy sermon during which the preacher will speak at length to expound a biblical text and bring out its relevance to those present. Styles of worship Different churches, even within the same denomination, will use very different styles of worship. Some may have a choir singing elaborate music, while others will have simple hymns sung by the whole congregation. Others have both. Some churches leave much of the action to the minister, while others encourage great congregational participation. Catholic Mass Mass is the name given to the Eucharistic celebration in the Latin liturgical rites of the Roman Catholic Church, in Old Catholic Churches, in the Anglo-Catholic tradition of Anglicanism, and in some largely High Church Lutheran regions, including the Scandinavian and Baltic countries. The term is derived from the late-Latin word missa (dismissal), a word used in the concluding formula of Mass in Latin: "Ite, missa est" ("Go; it is the dismissal").[1] For the celebration of the Eucharist in Eastern Churches, including those in full communion with the Holy See of Rome, other terms, such as the Divine Liturgy, the Holy Qurbana, and the Badarak, are normally used. Western denominations not in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church, such as Calvinist Christianity, also usually prefer terms other than Mass. Catholics celebrate Mass. The Tridentine Mass, recited in Latin, dates in parts from the time of St Gregory in the 6th century. It takes its name from the 16th-century Council of Trent. It was restricted by most bishops after the reforms of the Second Vatican Council (1962-65) and Catholics were instructed to conduct Mass in their local languages. On 7th July 2007 BBC News reported that Pope Benedict XV1 lifted these restrictions and gave permission for priests worldwide to celebrate again the Mass in Latin as it had been throughout the Church for nearly 1,500 years. However, the Church believes the majority of its congregation will continue to hear Mass in their local languages. 'Eucharist' is a Greek word for thanksgiving. Its celebration is to commemorate the final meal that Jesus took with his disciples before his death (the Last Supper). This rite comes from the actions of Jesus who, at that meal, took bread and wine and asked his disciples to consume them and continue to do so in memory of him. At the meal, the wine represented his blood and the bread his body. The Eucharist is central to the Church and is recognised as a sign of unity amongst Christians. Different Churches understand and practice the Eucharist in different ways. As a result the central ideas of the Eucharist can sometimes cause disharmony rather than unity. For example, the idea that Christ is present in the bread and wine is interpreted literally (transubstantiation) by some churches and metaphorically by others. While worship is often thought of only as services in which Christians come together in a group, individual Christians can worship God on their own, and in any place.
Main festivals On this page: Main festivals Christian festivals such as Easter and Christmas are major milestones in the Western secular calendar. Festivals like Christmas Day happen on the same date every year, while other festivals move around within a range of dates. The main festival that moves is Easter, and since many other festivals have their dates fixed in relation to Easter, they move with it. Below is a list of festivals in alphabetical order, with a brief explanation of each: Advent This is the period of preparation for the celebration of the birth of Jesus and begins on the Sunday nearest to 30 November. A candle is lit each Sunday during Advent. All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day All Saints' Day is a feast day celebrated on November 1. All Souls' Day, November 2, is a time to pray for departed souls. The Feast of the Annunciation The Christian celebration of the Annunciation on the 25th March marks the Angel Gabriel's visit to Mary. Ascension Day Ascension Day celebrates the ascension of Jesus to heaven 40 days after He was resurrected on Easter Day. Feast of the Assumption This Catholic feast day commemorates the belief that Mary, Jesus's mother, was taken, body and soul, into heaven at the end of her life (unlike all other human beings who have to wait until the end of time for their bodily resurrection). Catholics celebrate this festival on 15 August each year. However, it remains controversial to Protestants because it is not explicitly referred to in the Bible. Candlemas The name derives from the custom of blessing all the Church's candles for the year. Candlemas commemorates the purification of Mary 40 days after giving birth, as well as the presentation of Jesus in the temple. Christmas Christmas is an annual Christian holy day that celebrates the birth of Jesus, the son of God, which is believed to have taken place in a stable in Bethlehem. Christmas festivities often combine the commemoration of Jesus' birth with various customs, many of which have been influenced by earlier winter festivals. In most places around the world, it is celebrated on 25 December a date that was set in the 4th century by Pope Julius 1 in an attempt to Christianise Pagan celebrations which already took place at this time of year. Orthodox Christians celebrate on 7 January. Christmas Day is celebrated on 25 December, preceded by Christmas Eve on 24 December, and in some countries is followed by Boxing Day on 26 December. The Armenian Apostolic Church observes Christmas on January 6, while Eastern Orthodox Churches celebrate on January 7, the date on the Gregorian calendar which corresponds to 25 December on the Julian Calendar. The date as a birthdate for Jesus is merely traditional, and is not widely considered to be his actual date of birth. Corpus Christi Corpus Christi is Latin for the body of Christ. The festival, celebrated by Roman Catholics to proclaim the truth of the transubstantiation of bread and wine into the actual blood and body of Christ, celebrates the Eucharist as the body of Christ. Corpus Christi falls between late May and mid-June on the first Thursday after Trinity Sunday (60 days after Easter). Easter Easter is the most important Christian festival. It celebrates the resurrection of Jesus from the dead on Easter Sunday which occurred two days after he was crucified, taken down from the Cross and laid to rest in a cave (which was on Good Friday, the Friday before Easter). Jesus himself was seen on Easter Sunday, and for days afterwards by many people. His followers believed that God had raised Jesus from the dead. Epiphany The Epiphany is an ancient Christian feast day and is significant in a number of ways. The Western Church associates it with the visit of the Magii (Wise Men) to the infant Jesus (6 January). It also celebrates the baptism of Jesus later in his life by John the Baptist. Hallowe'en - All Hallows' Eve Although this festival is commonly thought to be (and indeed is celebrated today as) a Pagan festival, its Christian roots lie in it being the evening before All Saints' Day (also known as Allhallowmass). Traditionally All Saints' Day is said to be the day when souls walked the earth. In early Christian tradition souls were released from purgatory for 48 hours. It takes place on 31 October followed by All Hallows' Day on 1 November. Holy Week Holy Week is the week leading up to Easter, beginning on Palm Sunday, which commemorates Christ's triumphant arrival in Jerusalem. In many churches, during Palm Sunday services, large palm branches are carried in processions. Maundy Thursday This is the anniversary of the day of the Last Supper when Jesus is said to have washed the feet of his disciples and established the ceremony known as the Eucharist. The night of Maundy Thursday is the night on which Jesus is believed to have been betrayed by Judas in the Garden of Gethsemane. In Britain the monarch takes part in the Ceremony of the Royal Maundy. This involves the distribution of Maundy money to senior citizens (one man and one woman for each year of the monarch's age). Roman Catholic church services feature a ceremony (known in Latin as pedilavium) in which the priest washes the feet of 12 people to commemorate Jesus washing the feet of his disciples. Good Friday The main service on Good Friday takes place between midday and 3 pm. The week ends on Holy Saturday, which is often incorrectly called Easter Saturday. The Easter Vigil service is the first Easter service and takes place on the night of Easter Saturday. Feast of the Immaculate Conception This Catholic feast day commemorates the belief that Mary was conceived without original sin and her conception was therefore immaculate. Mary's sinless conception is the reason why Catholics refer to Mary as "full of grace". It is celebrated by Catholics on 8 December each year. There are two common misunderstandings about the immaculate conception. Firstly, it is confused with the "virgin birth"; the belief that Mary gave birth to Jesus while remaining a virgin. They are not the same thing. Secondly, it does not mean that Mary was conceived without sexual intercourse as Mary had ordinary human parents. Lent Lent is the period of forty days which comes before Easter in the Christian calendar. It is traditionally a time of fasting, reflection and giving up of vices or designated 'worldly pleasures'. It is preceded by Shrove Tuesday and begins with Ash Wednesday. However, while both eastern and western churches observe Lent, they count the 40 days differently. The western church excludes Sundays (which is celebrated as the day of Christ's resurrection) whereas the eastern church includes them. The churches also start Lent on different days. Western churches start Lent on the 7th Wednesday before Easter Day (called Ash Wednesday). Eastern churches start Lent on the Monday of the 7th week before Easter and end it on the Friday 9 days before Easter. Eastern churches call this period the 'Great Lent'. The last week of Lent is called Holy Week (see above). Nativity The birth of Jesus is known as the Nativity. Pentecost Pentecost is the festival when Christians celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit (the third part of the Trinity of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit) when it descended upon the Apostles 50 days after Jesus was resurrected on Easter Day. It is regarded as the birthday of the Christian church and the start of the Church's mission to the world. Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Eight days (which is why it was originally called an "octave of prayer") of prayer and events which take place annually between 18 and 25 January to promote interdenominational cooperation.
Diet There are no specific dietary prohibitions for Christians. However, at one time, Roman Catholics were not allowed to eat meat on Fridays, but now this restriction applies only to Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. However, it is important to understand that older Roman Catholics may wish to adhere strictly to the old rule. It would be usual for them to eat fish on Fridays, and fish is also a suitable alternative to meat on Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. The Catholic Church in England and Wales
Dress Christians generally dress in the same way as the prevailing fashion of the society in which they live. It is a custom for men to remove their hats in church, and generally when indoors. Traditionally, some women, particularly married women, wear hats in church, but today, this usually applies to older women. It is also traditional to wear black clothing as a sign of mourning at a funeral, or when a family member has died.
Language On this page: Glossary
Annunciation
Apostle (a) It refers to the original 12 disciples called by Jesus to preach the gospel: Simon Peter, the brothers James and John, Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alpheus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, Judas Iscariot. (b) It is also the title of the highest ecclesiastical official in certain Protestant sects and one of the 12 administrative officials of the Mormon Church.
Baptism
Blasphemy
Christmas
Communion, or Lord's supper
Confession
Crucifixion
Disciple
Epistle
Holy Spirit
Lamb of God
Mary, or the Blessed Virgin Mary (Catholic term), or Madonna (My Lady - a name used since medieval times)
The Mass The term is derived from the Latin word missa (dismissal), a word used in the concluding formula of Mass in Latin: "Ite, missa est" ("Go; it is the dismissal"). For the celebration of the Eucharist in Eastern Churches, including those in full communion with the Holy See of Rome, other terms, such as the Divine Liturgy, the Holy Qurbana and the Badarak, are normally used.
Nativity
New Testament
Original sin
Patriarch
Pentecost
Redemption
Repentance
Resurrection
Salvation
Trinity
Life cycle On this page: Life cycle Baptism/Christening Baptism, from Greek baptízô, is a religious act of purification by water usually associated with admission to membership or fullness of membership of Christianity. Baptism is seen by Christians as an act of obedience and to demonstrate to others that they have completely turned away from their own life have repented their sins and are entering a new life with Christ. The act of Baptism by full immersion is a representation of Christ's death and resurrection. A christening is the first initiation into the faith. Mormons (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) baptize individuals by proxy after their death. Others, Baptists in particular, baptize by full immersion in water. Most others sprinkle or daub water over the face of the person or child to be baptized. A few denominations do not baptize at all. Confirmation Confirmation is a sacrament, ritual or rite of passage. It is a popular practice in the Roman Catholic, Anglican and Orthodox Churches. It enables a baptised person to confirm the promises made on their behalf at baptism. It is also a sign of full membership to the Christian community. A baptised person believes that he or she is receiving the gift of the Holy Spirit. A bishop usually conducts the service but there are variations in how it is carried out. In the Anglican Church, the sacrament of confirmation is conferred through the laying of hands. In the Roman Catholic Church, each participant is also anointed with oil. In Protestant denominations outside the Church of England, confirmation is seen as a rite of passage or initiation to full Christian discipleship. It is a symbolic act allowing the baptised person to make a mature statement of faith. Confirmation is not regarded as a sacrament or a means of conferring divine grace. Confirmation can be held at any age. In the Eastern Churches, it is conferred on infants straight after baptism. In the West, most denominations insist that participants are old enough to understand the significance of their promises. Christians believe Jesus instituted the sacrament or rite of confirmation when he promised to send another counsellor to empower his disciples to bear witness. (John 14:16; John 15:26; John 16:13). The roots of the practice of confirmation are found in the Acts of the Apostles: "Now when the apostles in Jerusalem heard that Samaria had accepted the word of God, they sent them Peter and John, who went down and prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Spirit, for it had not yet fallen upon any of them; they had only been baptised in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit." Preparing for confirmation Confirmation candidates attend a series of special classes to learn about the sacrament, their faith and Christian responsibilities. Confirmation preparation helps candidates to have a proper understanding of how to live as a follower of Christ. In the past, candidates were required to learn a series of questions and answers by heart known as the catechism. Today's classes are more comprehensive and the particular needs of candidates will be borne in mind. Where confirmation takes place Most Christians are confirmed in the church they normally attend. People can also be confirmed in another church where a large group of candidates from different churches come together. In most Catholic churches today, Catholics are confirmed when they are about 14 years old. The sacrament of confirmation is often held on Pentecost Sunday when Christians celebrate the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles. Catholics believe confirmation is one of seven sacraments instituted by Christ. The effect of the sacrament of confirmation is a special outpouring of the Spirit as granted to the apostles on the day of Pentecost. A bishop usually confers confirmation although a priest is sometimes allowed to administer the sacrament if a person has already been baptised into another Christian Church and is entering into full communion with the Catholic Church through confirmation. A priest is also allowed to confer the sacrament if a person (adult or child) is in danger of death. (Code of Canon Law, canon 884) As the sacrament is usually reserved to a bishop, it is common in the Catholic Church to confirm large groups of older children and young adults together during Mass. The bishop lays his hands on the head of each candidate. This is a sign that he is appointing them to be true witnesses to Christ. The bishop prays that each person will receive the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: reverence, understanding, courage, knowledge, wisdom, awe and wonder and right judgment. He makes the sign of the cross on their foreheads with holy chrism oil. This is a sign of strength and a reminder of their commitment to follow Christ even to the cross. In many English-speaking countries, candidates will take the name of a saint. The saint will act as a patron and guide to the person seeking confirmation. Candidates will usually devote time during their confirmation classes to choosing a saint who particularly inspires them. Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox Churches Eastern Churches refer to confirmation as Chrismation. They confer Chrismation at the same time as baptism. This is also the practice of Eastern Rite Catholics. (An Eastern rite Catholic is in union with the Pope but is not a member of the Roman Catholic Church). The special relationship between Roman Catholics and members of the Eastern Churches means that the Catholic Church does not confirm converts from the Eastern rite. By contrast, when Roman Catholics and Protestants convert to Orthodoxy, they are usually received into the Church by Chrismation but without baptism. However, some bishops require converts to be admitted through baptism. Protestants, in particular, may have to be baptised again. Church of England, Methodist, Baptist confirmation
Church of England Traditionally, confirmation was part of a wider ceremony of Christian initiation in the Church of England. It only became a separate rite when bishops were no longer able to preside at all baptisms. Anglicans who choose to be confirmed make a further commitment to the Christian journey that began with their baptism. It marks their decision to live a responsible and committed Christian life. Through prayer and the laying of hands, the bishop asks God to send his Holy Spirit to give them the strength to live as disciples of Christ. Like baptism, there are two different types of confirmation services in the Church of England. There are those that follow the confirmation rite in The Book of Common Prayer and those that follow the confirmation rite from the Common Worship pattern. The Book of Common Prayer confirmation rite requires candidates to: The bishop may commission the candidates, asking them to express their commitment to a life of Christian discipleship. Candidates may sometimes be anointed with oil as an additional sign of their anointing by the Holy Spirit. In the Church of England, there is no set age for confirmation although it has been traditional for people to be confirmed in their early teens. However, anyone who is old enough to answer responsibly for himself/herself and has received appropriate preparation can be confirmed. In many dioceses, the local bishop has set a minimum age for confirmation.
Methodist Church Like Anglicans and Catholics, Methodists confirm the promises that were made on their behalf as a baby. A minister conducts the confirmation service through the laying of hands and the following prayer: "Lord, confirm your servant by your Holy Spirit that he/she may continue yours forever."
Baptist Church Some Baptist churches may also be willing to re-baptise a person who has embraced the Christian faith although they were baptised as a baby into another denominatio Marriage Church of England weddings
Christian marriage A marriage is a public declaration of love and commitment. This declaration is made in front of friends and family in a church ceremony. Where can couples marry? A couple may marry in their local Church of England parish church if either the man or woman lives in the parish. Before 2007, they could not be married in another parish unless they had attended church services there for six months and were on its electoral roll. In July 2007, however, the Church proposed relaxing the rules. Couples would be able to marry in any parish where they have "certain types of qualifying connection". The following are qualifying connections: The draft measure, which had first been proposed in 2006, was unanimously approved at the meeting of the General Synod on Saturday 7 July 2007 and sent for final drafting and approval.
Before the wedding Secondly, the couple must speak to the priest about hymns and prayers they may want on the day. Many couples want to include extra touches, such as flower arrangements or musicians. Some churches offer marriage preparation, where the priest will discuss subjects such as money, conflict, communication and sex. This throws up possible problems which the couple may come across during their marriage, and helps suggest ideas for handling them
A Church of England wedding ceremony Catholic weddings
Marriage in the Catholic Church Catholics are encouraged to marry other Catholics in order to attain a "perfect union of mind and full communion of life". Today in countries throughout the world it is common for Catholics to enter into a 'mixed marriage' (a marriage between a Catholic and a baptised non-Catholic). Couples entering into a mixed marriage are usually allowed to marry in a Catholic church provided they have embraced the following principles: When one member of the couple is not a Catholic, a dispensation is required for a mixed marriage to take place. This is normally granted by the priest who is conducting the marriage. If one of the partners is not baptised (they belong to a non-Christian religion, or to none) a dispensation for 'disparity of the cult' is required. This must be granted by the bishop. It is usually a straightforward matter as long as the dispensation is applied for in time. The priest will usually take care of the paperwor
Catholic teaching on marriage to non-Catholics Through ecumenical dialogue Christian communities in many regions have been able to put into effect a common pastoral practice for mixed marriages. Its task is to help such couples live out their particular situation in the light of faith, overcome the tensions between the couple's obligations to each other and towards their ecclesial communities, and encourage the flowering of what is common to them in faith and respect for what separates them. The Catechism also makes a distinction between a mixed marriage and a marriage with disparity of cult (a marriage between a Catholic and non-baptised person). Priests are required by the Church to ensure that such marriages will not endanger the faith of the Catholic partner. In practice, priests will judge each situation on a case by case basis. If difficulties arise, it is the pastoral duty of the priest to raise questions and initiate a frank discussion with the couple. He would use the same logic as any other situation in life where the faith of a Catholic could be in jeopardy. While the Church urges caution in the case of marriages between Catholics and non-Catholics, it does not prevent a Catholic from marrying the person of their choice.
Preparing for marriage These marriage preparations are known as pre-Cana. It is an educational and maturing process for married life. Pre-Cana can take place over six months or an intensive weekend course and is mandatory for Catholics wishing to get married. While a couple is engaged but not yet married, they are expected to refrain from sexual activity: "They should reserve for marriage the expressions of affection that belong to married love". This is because the Church teaches that sex is part of the procreation process and should only happen within the right framework, which is marriage.
A Catholic wedding ceremony The ceremony including Mass is as follows: Divorce Church of England Whilst the Church of England does not encourage divorce, it has the structure to help and sympathise with those who find themselves in such a situation.
The Church of England and remarriage The Church has had a clear stance on the subject of a Christian remarriage since the General Synod meeting of 2002. In a vote concerning marriage after divorce, the outcome was 269 votes to 83 in support of change. The Church of England teaches that marriage is for life. It also recognizes that some marriages sadly do fail and, if this should happen, it seeks to be available for all involved. The Church accepts that, in exceptional circumstances, a divorced person may marry again in church during the lifetime of a former spouse.General Synod, 2002 Under civil law, clergy have the capacity to marry any two people (as long as the couple can legally marry). The Church advises clergy to think carefully before remarrying couples and to ask them questions to find out how committed they are. The final decision rests with the clergy member. The Church's suggested questions concentrate on the intentions of the couple and whether allowing the remarriage would be harmful to anybody involved: Divorce in the Catholic Church In Christian law, marriage is a sacred institution. However, a variety of denominations have different approaches to divorce, the legal separation of a married couple. The Catholic Church has strict guidelines on divorce. The Church considers the bond of marriage to be a sacred bond, one that is based on life-long love, fidelity and family. Marriage is both a legal bond on earth and spiritual bond which God has witnessed. The latter cannot be broken using temporal laws. Annulment An annulment, known also as a Decree of Nullity, is not the same as a divorce. It is a declaration that the marriage was never valid in the first place. An annulment will be considered if there is reasonable proof that the bond between the two parties was invalid from the first day of marriage. The annulment process can take between 9 - 24 months or sometimes longer. Over 50,000 annulments are granted every year throughout the world. Grounds for an annulment include: If the bond was not fully established when the marriage commenced, then the Holy bond granted by God was not there to be broken. Reasoning behind this doctrine stems from the teachings of Jesus: "What God has united, man must not divide". (Mark, 10:9). Even if a couple separates legally, they are still joined together spiritually: "He who made man from the beginning, made them male and female. And he said: For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife, and they two shall be in one flesh. Therefore now they are not two, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let no man put asunder" (Matthew 19:4-6) New discussions in 2005 The subject of divorce was discussed recently at the Synod of Bishops (October 2005). There were 50 propositions to come out of the discussion. Proposition 40 was unequivocal in defining what it is to be a divorced Catholic, "According to the tradition of the Catholic Church, they cannot be admitted to Communion, finding themselves in conditions of objective contrast with the Word of the Lord who returned marriage to its original value of indissolubility." With regard to those who have remarried without an annulment, Catholics are encouraged to attend Mass but should refrain from consummating their new union. Proposition 40 explains: "Blessing these relationships should be avoided, so that confusion does not arise among the faithful regarding the value of marriage." Those who do so are committing an act of adultery as they are still spiritually married in God's eyes, to their previous partner. Death, Burial, Funeral, Mourning Christians believe that when someone dies, they are judged by God. The righteous go to Heaven and the sinners go to Hell. Christians believe that Hell is the separation from the love of God. When a Christian dies, it is seen as the end of his/her life on earth. A funeral is held for friends and family to grieve for the person who has died and give thanks for their life. If someone is on their deathbed, a minister will prepare them for death. This is most likely after a long period of illness. Prayers of preparation and reconciliation may be said, with only the minister in the room. Family and friends can participate in the Lord's Prayer, the Word of God and Holy Communion. Often, the deceased will have left information in his/her will concerning what they want to be included in the funeral service (hymns, prayers) and will also say whether they wanted to be buried or cremated. The funeral is held about a week after death. It can either take place in a church or at a crematorium. It usually takes this form: There may also be a selection of hymns which are sung throughout the service. Some parishes still have space for burials. The burial follows a church service and the family and friends of the deceased gather round the grave for the Committal. It is tradition to throw some dust/mud onto the coffin. A short prayer will be said by the minister. For those who wish to be cremated, the body is taken to a crematorium, where it is burned. At the point of Committal, the curtains close around the coffin. The ashes are put into an urn and given to the family, who may choose to keep them or scatter them in a place that was meaningful to the decease. Catholic Catholics believe in Heaven and Hell, but also in Purgatory. This is a place for those who have died in a 'state of grace' (that is, they have committed 'venial' or forgivable sins) and may not go straight to Heaven. A Catholic funeral is slightly different and can be with or without Mass:
Ethics On this page: Ethics Abortion Before 1967 abortion was illegal in the U.K. (200,000 probably occurring illegally). The Abortion Act of that year made abortion legal if : The 1990 Act lowered the time of viability to 24 weeks. The Sanctity of human life Christians believe that all life is a gift from God. Human life is precious and sacred. Men and women are 'created in the image of God' and are therefore superior and different to all other forms of life. Men and women are unique since they bear a striking resemblance to God because they have a spiritual capacity that all other forms of life do not have. (The Bible, Psalm 8 verse 5) "You made him (man) a little lower than heavenly beings and crowned him with glory and honour". Since man is given dominion over all other forms of life (The Bible, Psalm 8 verses 6-8), human kind can shape events in a way no other life forms can. A key responsibility of humans must be to respect all forms of life especially human life. Since mankind is created in God's image, it is all to be nurtured, supported and protected. All human beings are therefore equal in God's sight, no person or group of people is inferior to another and equal respect must be given to the very young and very old. The 6th commandment "Thou shall not kill" is taken by Christians to mean that no-one has the right to end the life of another human being prematurely - under any circumstances. (The Bible, Psalm 139 verse 13) says "You created my inmost being, you knit me together in my mother's womb". Christians believe that God alone should determine a person's moment of conception as well as their moment of death. Different views Christians are divided on the issue of abortion. Is it a modern necessity of life or not? The morality, or otherwise, of an abortion is very difficult to assess and must, ultimately, rest with the mother. Whatever she decides she must live with the consequences of her decision. All Christians believe it is vital to offer support to all who face hard choices such as these, they should be supported, regardless of what they decide. Christians should be concerned with enhancing life and relieving physical and emotional suffering
The Roman Catholic Church and Abortion The Roman Catholic church maintains the strongest objection to all unnatural forms of birth control and abortion. It teaches that abortion denies the most fundamental of all human rights - the right to exist. The destruction of any foetus amounts to murder. Any Catholic involved in an abortion, whether mother or medical practitioner, may be excommunicated from the church and its sacraments.
The Catechism of the Catholic church states "from the first moment of his (her) existence, a human being must be recognised as having the rights of a person - among which is the inviolable right of every innocent being to life.
The Anglican Church and Abortion The church combines strong opposition to abortion with a recognition that there can be limited conditions under which it is morally legitimate. Such times as when a pregnancy threatens the life of the mother, where the mother has been raped, where the foetus is at risk of being seriously handicapped. In all cases Anglicans stress the need for "compassion for the mother and a proper responsibility for the life of the unborn child". They therefore recognise that it may be necessary to come to different conclusions about different situations. The emphasis being on demonstrating Christ's compassion in all situations. However, the Synod is pressing for the abortion laws to be applied more strictly and the number of abortions to be drastically reduced. It is committed to promoting real alternatives to abortion and to "offer spiritual, moral and practical support to those who have to meet the challenge of parenthood in difficult circumstances"
Methodism and Abortion While the church wishes no abortion were necessary, it stresses that necessary terminations must occur as early in the pregnancy as possible. They are opposed to making abortion illegal again, believing this would increase deaths in 'botched back-street' abortions. Never to allow an abortion could be to condemn some women and their babies to gross suffering or cruel death since nature itself makes the decision to abort damaged embryo in miscarriage. Counselling and Pastoral care should be extended to both the mother and father and the alternatives to termination be made clear
Baptists and Abortion In considering both contraception and abortion, their concern is to protect the life of the foetus. However, they too recognise that taking life may be the lesser of two evils in cases of rape, incest, threat to well-being of the mother, the foetus and wider family Birth Control The Anglican Church and Birth Control The church recognises the complex ethical issues raised by modern techniques of contraception and assisted conception i.e. IVF, AIH and AID. In each case the church urges that the morality of the action itself; its legal consequences; the genetic element; the personal consequences to the child be given utmost consideration The Roman Catholic Church and Birth Control While the Roman Catholic church recognise the pain of a married couple who are unable to have a child, it says that "a child is a gift, not a right". For this reason, the church rejects all forms of contraception and new reproductive technologies, i.e. IVF - In Vitro Fertilisation, AIH - Artificial Insemination by husband and AID - Artificial Insemination by a Donor. Methodism and Birth Control The Methodist church supports responsible contraception within marriage. Baptists and Birth Control Contraception is seen as a gift from medical science under God's sovereignty. Choosing not to have or space families is morally defensible, considering the needs of the world, population size and family responsibility. However, those contraceptives which have an abortifacient function e.g. I.U.D. and various pills are considered to take human life and should be avoided. Organ donation Christians are in favour of organ donation. However, Jehovah's Witnesses may not wish to donate their organs because someone else's blood would then flow through them. In the case of organs that do not involve blood flow, for example corneas, there would be no religious grounds on which to object to donation. Jehovah's Witnesses currently believe in organ transplantation, although any surgery would have to be performed on a bloodless basis.
Christians in custody On this page: Christians in Custody Ask each individual to tell you if they have any special religious needs. Diet Most Christians will have no special religious dietary needs, though older and more traditional Catholics may wish to eat fish rather than meat on Fridays, Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. Holy Book Christians may request a copy of the Bible - Old and New Testaments. Last Rites In the unfortunate circumstances of a Catholic suddenly becoming dangerously ill and near to death, a Catholic priest should be called to administer the Last Rites. Seventh-Day Adventists Sanctuary Criminal Sanctuary (the giving or claiming of protection against arrest, etc by a lawbreaker within church walls) has been abolished. Arrests have been made inside churches and it is entirely legal to do so.
Entering premises Police officers entering a church or any other building for Christian worship should show respect for the sanctity of their surroundings and sensitivity to the feelings of the people there. Men normally remove their hats in church so the removal of hats or helmets would be seen as a sign of respect. In some churches women are expected to have their heads covered. Older women in particular observe this custom. If prayers are taking place, except in an emergency, do not interrupt. Remain at the rear of the church behind the seats until there is a gap in the prayers, or the prayers are completed. Switch off mobile phones. Unless absolutely necessary, do not take animals into a church.
Hinduism Please select the topic you require from the left-hand menu and contacts and links from the right of the page. If you wish to contact us about this section please select the "Contact Us" option on the right of the page. Acknowledgements Many thanks to all those who have so generously helped in the preparation of this section, namely the Faith Strand, members of the Hindu community and the MEEM Consultancy. The help of the Hindu Police Association has been invaluable, they have advised us and liaised with relevant parties and organisations on our behalf.
Overview On this page: History and belief system Hinduism is the dominant religion of India where approximately 80 per cent of the population are Hindus. It is more than 3,000 years old and flourished in ancient India which was called Bharat. The word Hindu is derived from the name of an ancient river called 'Sindhu' that flowed in the North West corner of ancient India. This religion boasts of a large number of founders, sages and seers both ancient and modern. It claims that these founders, called the Rishis, continue to be born in every age and hold the power of refreshing the message of spirituality in a manner most suited to address the needs of the people of that age. Brahman The most comprehensive definition of God in Hinduism is Brahman. God is a principle that underpins everything and everyone is called Brahman. God as a super-personality is viewed as a limited exercise in coming to terms with the spiritual dimension of mankind. Hindus believe that: Law of Karma The law of karma is the just law of cause and effect. It simply says that we have to bear the consequences of what we set into motion. What we sow is what we reap. This law puts us in charge of our destiny and also removes the idea of a God sitting in judgement because it is not God who will punish us for our misdeeds; it is the law of karma catching up. The Four Pathways for making spiritual progress The Hindu religion recognises many pathways for making spiritual progress. The key pathways suggested are:
Hindus in London On this page: Hindus in London In the UK, Hindus comprise approximately 20 per cent of the South Asian community and are predominantly from the state of Gujarat in India, with a smaller number from Punjab, Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. Hinduism is the third most popular religion in the UK after Christianity and Islam, and it is estimated that there are about 600,000 Hindus living in the UK. Just over half of Britain's Hindu population live in London. They are concentrated in Brent and Harrow where they make up a fifth of each of these populations (17 per cent and 20 per cent respectively). The largest Hindu communities in London are in Wembley and Harrow. In 1970, the first Mandir (Hindu Temple) in London was built in Islington and offered the first real meeting place for Hindus. In the 1970s more and more Hindus came to London, as many Indians had to leave African countries such as Uganda and Kenya. This led to the biggest ever march by any Asian community in Britain in 1995, when more than 6,000 Hindus brought the West End to a standstill with their message of peace and harmony. Important Mandirs (Temples) in London include: Shri Swaminarayan Mandir
105-119 Brentfield Road, Neasden, London NW10 8LD.
Shree Nathji Sanatan Hindu Mandir Temple (East London)
Ganapathy Temple, Wimbledon
Gayatri Temple, West Hendon
Greenwich Hindu Mandir, Plumstead
Highgate Hill Murugan Temple, Highgate Hill
Hindu Centre, Belsize Park
Hindu Cultural Society, North Finchley
Hindu Mandir, Plumstead
Hindu Temple, Finchley
Holy Mission of Guru Nanak (Sindhi Community House), Cricklewood
Int. Swaminarayana Satsang Organisation, Streatham
Int. Swaminarayana Satsang Organisation, Willesden
Kanaga Thurkkai Amman Temple, West Ealing
Shree Kutch Satsang Swaminarayan Temple London
Krishna Yoga Mandir, Edmonton
Kutch Satsang Swaminarayana Temple, Forest Gate
Kutch Satsang Swaminarayana Temple, Plumstead
London Sevashrama Sangh, Shepherds Bush
Maha Lakshmi Temple, Manor Park
Maha Lakshmi Vidya Temple, Forrest Hill
Murugan Temple, Manor Park
Muththumari Amman Temple, Tooting
Nath ji Sanatan Hindu Mandir, Leytonstone
Radha Krishna Cultural Centre, South Norwood
Radha Krishna Temple, Balham
Radha Krishna Temple, Soho
Radha Krishna Temple, Stratford
South East Hindu Association, Woolwich
Swaminarayana Temple, Neasden
Swaminarayana Hindu Mission, Upton
Swaminarayana Mandir, Golders Green
Swaminarayana Temple, Willesden
Subdivisions On this page:
Subdivisions (distribution of roles) The Caste System Hindus believe that different people should fulfil different roles in society after taking into account their age (ashrama) and aptitude (varna). For example, a youngster should study and acquire skills; the duty of a middle aged person should be to earn money honestly in order to provide for a family. The work a person does in society should reflect his or her special attributes. Idea of caste emphasises the importance of tapping into the skills of individuals for the benefit of the greater society. This idea can be found throughout modern society in which youngsters are streamed to take on the professions that are suited to their personal skills The idea of caste as division of labour based on age and aptitude was misused in the medieval period and turned into a tool of oppression by the so called 'higher castes (the priestly or ruling class)' to subjugate and control the so called 'lower castes (working class)' for example, the creation of the 'untouchables' in India. Stratification of society into a hierarchical system has no sanction in the books of authority of Hinduism. Every modern proponent of Hinduism like Lord Swaminarayan or Vivekananda have severely criticised the hereditary hierarchical caste system as an atrocity committed in the name of religion In the UK the Caste system has turned into a benevolent Clan system Classifying people as upper or lower or pressuring a youngster to choose a profession based on hereditary grounds are considered to be outlandish by modern Hindus living in the UK. All Hindu youngsters are encouraged to take on the profession they are most suited to. The caste system in the UK has turned into a benevolent clan system. There may be a preference to marry within the same clan but this is more to do with the fact that these youngsters are more comfortable to marry someone who shares a similar life style or familiar diet, or speak the same language and share the same social grouping.
Places of worship On this page: Hindu worship may take place in either the home (domestic) or the mandir (temple). Worship can be both an individual act and a communal activity. Worship ceremonies may involve singing devotional songs called bhajans, reciting scriptures, repeating the name of God, turning beads, or meditating. The ceremony itself may involve offering fruit, flowers and incense to the deity being worshipped. Home worship Many Hindus have a small shrine in their home where they can worship and make daily offerings. The family often worships together. The shrine will contain at least one image, called a deity (murti), or the form of God or Goddess being worshipped, for example, God (Bhagwan) Shiva, Vishnu, Ram, Krishan and Swaminarayan or Goddess (Devi) Parvati, Lakshmi, Durga, Gayatri and Kali. Thinking about God in a particular form or focusing on the form of God is considered to be a powerful tool in Hindu worship. Each shrine will also contain a prayer (pooja) tray which holds many artefacts. These items are used in the worship. They may include: a lamp powered by clarified butter called ghee, incense sticks, water, a small bell, coloured powder to mark the forehead, fruits and flowers. Temple worship Hindus worship communally in the Mandir. The heart of the Mandir is the central shrine, the home of the chief deity. Women and the younger children may either sit together with, or separately from the men. At a Hindu temple, different parts of the building have a different spiritual or symbolic meaning. The central shrine is called Garbha-griha meaning inner space. It is the heart of the temple and contains the image of the deity to which the temple is dedicated. This part is accessible to the priests who carry out the worship ceremony. The tall tower or Ghumat points upwards to indicate the wish to aspire to higher ideals. A priest or a group of priests may be appointed to carry out the daily worship in the temple. They belong to the Brahmin class. Brahmin is defined in the Hindu scriptures of authority (Gita) as a person who leads a God centred life, who is firmly established in leading a truthful life and who is content. These people are considered fit to carry out religious duties. Entering a shrine/temple (mandir) or hindu home
1. Smoking is prohibited inside a shrine and in the grounds of the Mandir.
Holy texts On this page: Swearing under oath The Bible has no significance to Hindus. In a Court of Law, an alternative oath would need to be used. The recommended Hindu religious book would be the Bhagavad Gita. The Vedas Veda comes from Sankskrit 'Vid' meaning to know. Vedas by definition are books of spiritual knowledge. This knowledge was passed on from generation to generation by word of mouth for perhaps a few thousand years before they were written up, which was around three thousand years ago. These texts are considered by Hindus to be the scriptures of authority. They discuss the nature of reality, the essential nature of the universe and of humans and their place in the universe. The Upanishads The Upanishads are part of the Vedas. They contain the heart of Hindu philosophy. The word 'upa' means 'to come close to' and the word 'shad' means' to destroy'. Meaning: The Upanishads have the power to destroy human delusion regarding the nature of reality. There are 108 Upanishads out of which 11 are considered to be central. These Upanishads discuss the relationship between man, spirit (God) and universe. The Epics - Ramayana and Mahabharata The Hindus consider these two epics to be historic stories. It is difficult to date these stories. They give an account of events that may have taken place several thousand year ago. The unique feature of these epics is that they contain marvellous stories and sub-stories that throw light on the ancient Hindu civilisation, their culture, their values as well the moral laws they lived by. The story of Ramayana is the story of an ancient King called Ram. He was perhaps the first king in the history of mankind whose life was not dedicated in chasing after possessions but a king who lived for high principles. The story of Mahabharata recounts the story of five brothers who despite facing severe adversities lead a very virtuous and moral life. Bhagavad Gita The Bhagavad Gita (Song of the Lord) is considered to be the central text of authority by all Hindus. Though this text appears in the epic story of the Mahabarata (which forms part of the narrative of Hinduism called the Smriti literature) they contain the essence of the Upanishadic teachings. The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual dialogue between Krishna the teacher and Arjun the disciple in the midst of a major battle. The text is held in high esteem because it teaches how to use religion in daily life. It gives the prescription of how lofty philosophic ideas of Hinduism can be made practical. It is also the first text book that promotes the idea of religious pluralism. It suggests a variety of pathways for making spiritual progress. It is the first religious textbook that offers freedom to the individual to choose how he or she wishes to make spiritual progress.
Prayer On this page: Daily Daily prayer is known as pooja. Dusk and dawn are considered suitable periods for carrying out prayers, but the actual time is not critical. Worship at the Mandir is generally between 6.30 am and 8.00 am and 7.00 pm and 8.30 pm. Hindus must wash thoroughly and change into clean clothes before praying. Nitya rituals are performed daily at the home shrine. They consist of the burning of incense and offerings of flowers, fruits, milk, or sweets to a statue or a picture of one among the hundreds of Hindu gods, goddesses, or spirits. Weekly There is no specific lord's day or Sabbath as in Christianity, Judaism and Islam. Hindus do, however, have frequent festivals to celebrate one or another God (for more information select Main Festivals from the left hand menu). Some Hindu/Vedic prayers have kindly been provided by the Hindu Police Association and are as follows:
Vedic prayers with meanings Sanskrit version English translation
Aum:
The Gayatri
Asato Ma Sadgamaya;
From the unreal lead us to the real;
Saha Navavatu;
May HE protect us;
Aum Brahmaarpanam Brahmahavir, Bramhaagnau Brahmanaahutam, Brahmaivatenagantavyam, Brahmakarma Samaadhina
Offer to Brahman,
Shantirantariksham, shanti prithvi, shantiraapaha, shantiroshadhayahe, shantivanaspatayae, shantivishvay-devata, shantibrahmaa, shantisarvashantihi, shantireva shanti, saa maa shantiredha
Peace in the sky, peace on earth, peace in waters;
Purnaat Purnamaudachyate;
This is perfect - that is perfect
Jaya Jagadisha Hare , Swamy Jaya Jagadisha Hare
My namaskars to Thee, God of this world (when it is created), my respects to Thee.
Dhyana-Moolam Guror-Murtih, Pooja-Moolam Guroh Padam
The Guru's image is the basis of our meditation. Our worships surround his holy feet.
"Om Triambkam Yaja Mahe Sugandhi Pushti Vardhanam, Urva Rukmev Vandhana, Mritu Mokshe Mamrata" We worship The Three-Eyed Lord Shiva who is fragrant and who increasingly nourishes the devotees. Worshipping him may we be liberated from death for the sake of immortality just as the ripe cucumber easily separates itself from the binding stalk.
A mantra describing Bhagwan Narayan or Vishnuji as the Supreme God: Vishnu (or Narayana or any such name or form we might know Him as) is the One mighty Nature (i.e. Spirit) who is embodying this manifold created world. He is underlying the three worlds (of material/ mundane, Mystic and divinity) and in this manifestation, He only, the Imperishable, is rejoicing eternally.
Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh): Brahma The Creator, The Preserver Vishnu, God Shiva Who Destroyed the Demons Bhaanuh, Power of Sun, Moon, Earth, Mars and Mercury. Peace from Jupiter, Venus, Saturn and the two Subtle Astrological Forces Rahu And Ketu - All these Planetary Bodies May All Bring Peace and Happiness for me at the beginning of a good day in the Morning.
Main festivals On this page: Hindu festivals Hinduism is a diverse religion and all Hindus may not celebrate all the festivals. The principal festivals of the Hindu year are: Holi - February or March Holi is a festival of colour and is celebrated by Hindus regardless of age, sex, and caste. Bonfires are lit on the evening of the festival; these symbolise the destruction of evil and the end of the cold weather. Some Hindus attend work in celebratory traditional dress. There is much emphasis placed upon the preparation of food and on the extended family. In Hiranyakashipu, the king of demons, had been granted a boon by Lord Brahma, which made it almost impossible for him to be killed. Consequently, he grew arrogant. He demanded that people stop worshipping gods and start praying to him. Despite this, his own son, Prahlad, was a devotee of Lord Vishnu. Prahlad continued offering prayers to Lord Vishnu. All of Hiranyakashipu's attempts to kill his son failed. Finally, he ordered young Prahlad to sit on a pyre on the lap of his sister, Holika, who could not die by fire by virtue of a shawl which would prevent fire affecting the person wearing it. When the fire started, everyone watched in amazement as the shawl flew from Holika, who then was burnt to death, while Prahlad survived unharmed, after the shawl moved to cover him. The burning of Holika is celebrated as Holi. Maha Shivratri A festival for Lord Shiva usually in February or March. Maha Shivratri, the night of the worship of Shiva falls on a moonless night, when Hindus offer special prayer to the lord of destruction. Shivratri (Sanskrit 'ratri' = night) is the night when he is said to have performed the Tandava Nritya or the dance of primordial creation, preservation and destruction. The festival is observed for one day and one night. Baisakhi or Vaisakhi Baisakhi is a harvest festival which is celebrated on the thirteenth day of April according to the solar calendar. It is celebrated in North India, particularly in Punjab and Haryana, when the rabi crop is ready for harvesting. This signals to people the time for work and the time for relaxation, commencement of the agricultural cycle with sowing in spring, and its culmination with the harvesting of the golden grain. Maha Shiv Ratri - February Maha Shivratri, the night of the worship of Shiva, occurs on the 14th night of the new moon during the month of moonless February, when Hindus offer special prayer to the lord of destruction. Shivratri (Sanskrit 'ratri' = night) is the night when he is said to have performed the dance of primordial creation, preservation and destruction. According to the Puranas, during the great mythical churning of the ocean, a pot of poison emerged from the ocean. The gods and the demons were terrified as it could destroy the entire world. When they ran to Shiva for help, he in order to protect the world, drank the deadly poison. Shivratri celebrates this event by which Shiva saved the world. The festival is observed for one day and one night only. Ramnavmi Lord Ram's birthday usually in March or April.
Janmashtami Lord Krishna's birthday usually in August. Dushehra A celebration in honour of Rama, which occurs in September or October. Dushehra means 'ten nights' in Hindi and symbolises the triumph of good over evil. The ten nights are dedicated to relaying different aspects of the battle fought between Ram and the evil King Ravana. This is often an evening celebration and customs will vary from family to family. Some Hindus may not attend work during this time. However, many celebrate this festival during the evenings of the ten nights. Raksha Bandan (Rakhi) - July or August This festival of bonding between sisters and brothers is celebrated in July or August. This is celebrated as a reminder that brothers and sisters care for each other. A sister will tie a bracelet, or rakhi, made of thread around her brother's right wrist, usually with flowers attached to it. In return, a brother will give his sister presents, sweets, or money. In recent years, the sentiment and giving of a rakhi has sometimes extended outside the family to friends, irrespective of caste and creed. Navratri - September or October A nine nights festival as a prelude to Dushehra, which celebrates the victory of good over evil. It is a festival of worship and dance. The word Navaratri literally means nine nights. During these nine days and nights, nine forms of female divinity (Goddess Durga, Bhadrakali, Amba, Annapurna, Saravmangla, Bhairavi, Chandi, Lalita and Bhavani) are worshipped. The most characteristic dances during Navratri are the Rasa and Garba dances which men and women perform at all levels of society. It is essentially associated with the agricultural rites. The Rasa is performed on Navaratri; and other important festivals associated with harvest and crops. KarVa Chauth September or October Married women observe this fast to pray and wish for the well-being, prosperity and longevity of their husbands. The festival of KarVa Chauth provides an opportunity for all married women to get close to their in-laws. Possessing a tremendous social and cultural significance, this festival is celebrated by fasting, applying henna and exchange of gifts. This fast is broken when the moon is visible. Divali The New Year Festival, which takes place around October or November. Divali is the festival of lights and marks the beginning of the Hindu calendar. This is the day when Lord Ram returned triumphant to Ayodhya, India after defeating evil King Ravan. The people of Ayodhya welcomed his return by lighting oil lamps to guide Lord Ram in finding his way to Ayodhya. The celebrations consist of lighting bonfires and fireworks, women painting their hands with intricate patterns in Henna (dye) and dressing in traditional dress. Fasting can be common amongst Hindus, and usually lasts for a day. During the fast, water and small amounts of fruit can be consumed. Devout Hindus will abstain from alcohol, meat and tobacco. During these festivals, some Hindus may need to stay at home or leave early for prayers, family gatherings, celebrations and observing a fast
Diet Dietary restrictions
Dress On this page: Large numbers of Hindus in London dress in western fashion. They may, or may not, wear traditional dress during worship or on festival days. There are no rigid rules concerning Hindu dress, but there are some traditional practices, which may vary depending on the region of origin. Red mark on the forehead (tika). After Puja (worship) some Hindus, both men and women, wear a red (or sometimes ashen grey) mark on their forehead representing a blessing from the Gods. Some older married women may have a tika on the forehead as a sign of marriage. Variations of colours such as blue, pink and multicoloured have become fashion statements worn by women of all generations rather than a symbol of marriage. Sari / shalwar-kameez. The traditional Hindu dress for women is a sari or a shalwar-kameez. The sari is worn over a short, short-sleeved blouse and an underskirt. The midriff is usually left bare. It is about personal choice and expression, some may adopt a western style of dress for work. Glass bangle (thali) A Hindu woman may wear a glass bangle (thali) on getting married and this is only removed if the husband dies. Breaking or removing the wedding bangle is considered a bad omen. For more detailed information on the thali (also called Mangalsutra), you can click the following Mangalsutra word doc link Beaded necklace (kanthi) and sacred thread (janoi). Many Hindus will wear a khanthi and a janoi, a sacred thread which passes diagonally across the body from the shoulder to about the waist height. It is put on at an important religious ceremony and should not be removed. Some Hindus, both men and women, wear a religious talisman on a chain as a protection from 'evil'. A few Orthodox Hindu men have a small tuft of hair (shikha) similar to a ponytail but this is often hidden under the rest of their hair. Some Orthodox Hindu men also wear a clay marking on their foreheads known as a tilak.
Language On this page: Languages The most widespread languages spoken by Hindus in the UK are: Gujarati ...spoken by people who mainly migrated to the UK from East Africa and Gujarat in India. Hindi ...the national and the main language of India, is spoken by people who come mainly from Central and North India. Punjabi ...spoken by people (mainly Sikhs and Hindus) from Punjab. Tamil ...is spoken by most Hindus who come from South India or Sri Lanka. There are various other Indian languages spoken by Hindus in the UK. They include Bengali, Himachali, Marathi, Sindhi, Telugu, Malaylam and Kannada. Naming system Forenames The first forename is a personal name and denotes gender. It is often chosen by consulting an astrologer who will suggest the first letter in the name. The name chosen may be the name of a God or Goddess, for example, Shiv, Ram or Krishna or Gauri, or it may reflect seasonal features, for example, Shishir or Vasant, both reflecting Spring, it may be an endearing personal quality like Shanti meaning peace, Bhim meaning powerful, Prem meaning love, Rajan meaning prince, Satya meaning truth, Prakash meaning light, or Vijay meaning victory. Second names The second name may be the name of the father or the husband (in the case of a married woman) or to indicate the gender of the person, for example, Dev, Kumar, Ram, Krishan for male and Devi, Dulari, Krishna, Kumari, Lakshmi for female. Surname The surname reflects the clan (or jati) the person belongs to.
A typical male name: Anand Kumar Gupta Some Hindus use only the first two names.
Life cycle On this page: Samskars Samskars are rites of passages to mark entry into different stages of life. There are 16 main Samskars prescribed in the scriptures. The key ones being practised at the moment are: Namkaran - naming ceremony Performed at about 11 days after birth. The name is chosen so that it is meaningful and inspires the child. The name may be whispered in the child's ear and/or written on the child's tongue with honey. A horoscope may be consulted to decide on the first letter of the name. Hindus are against male or female circumcision. Upanayana Literally means getting closer to God. This may be performed at the age of about 8 before the child begins the student stage of life. Brahmacharya means a celibate lifestyle. The youngster is invested with a sacred thread which has three strands- to represent three obligations: Obligation to God, teacher and parents. The central prayer of the Hindus is whispered in the ear of the youngster. The youngster is expected to develop the qualities of discipline and respect. Marriage The ceremony marks entry into the householder stage of life. The Ashram system (dividing life into four stages) of ancient Hinduism teaches that starting a family or beginning the householder stage (grihastha ashram) is of paramount importance for all individuals. The family unit is considered to be the building block of society and hence it is of great importance. Marriage (Vivah) ceremony Garlands are exchanged between the bride and the bridegroom and their main relatives at the reception. The marriage ceremony is carried out in front of fire lit in a Havan kund (pyramid shaped square utensil). The fire (the god, Agani) acts as a witness to the holy ceremony. The couple goes round the fire four times to emphasise the four aims of human life (Dharma - righteous living; Artha -earning wealth; Kama fulfilling legitimate desires; Moksha - attaining liberation). At the end of the ceremony the couple take seven steps together to symbolise starting the journey of life together (known as saptapadi meaning seven steps). These seven steps are taken for God, strength, health, wealth, progeny, happiness and the last step for lifelong friendship. From this point, the wife is referred to as a Sahadharmini (spiritual partner). Death and Last Rights (Antim Kriya) The body is viewed merely as an outer garment and so it is cremated not preserved. The body is bathed, clothed and is taken to a crematorium where the Shiv Puran or Gita is read and there is chanting. The eldest son or close male relative sets fire to the body and a verse is said to Agni to take the departed soul to the divine. The ashes are later collected and may be sent to be immersed in Hindus/India's holiest river Ganga. Recently the River Soar in Leicestershire has been designated a holy river for this purpose. It is not true that the soul is believed to be released only at the time of cremation. Procedure following the death of a hindu
The body must not be touched until members of the family arrive.
Ethics On this page: Abortion Hinduism teaches that abortion, like any other act of violence, hinders a soul in its progress toward God. Hindu scriptures and tradition have from the earliest of times condemned the practice of abortion, except when the life of the mother is in danger. Hinduism teaches that the foetus is a living, conscious person needing and deserving protection. Hindu scriptures refer to abortion as garha-batta (womb killing) and bhroona hathya (killing the undeveloped soul). A hymn in the Rig Veda (7.36.9, RvP, 2469) begs for protection of foetuses. The Kaushitaki Upanishad (3.1 UpR, 774) draws a parallel between abortion and the killing of one's parents. The Atharva Veda (6.113.2 HE, 43) remarks that the foetus slayer, or brunaghni, is among the greatest of sinners (6.113.2). (4) Birth Control There is no ban on birth control in Hinduism. In fact, it has been viewed as the way to avoid the necessity of abortion. Swami Kamalatmananda of the Ramakrishna Monastery in Madras, India, has said: "Precaution is better than destruction." Because India has a high population, much of the discussion of birth control has focussed on the environmental issue of overpopulation rather than more personal ethics, and birth control is not a major ethical issue. Organ donation There are no religious laws that prohibit Hindus from donating organs or tissues.
Hindus in custody On this page: Ask each individual for their specific needs and deal with any reasonable requests, particularly in terms of diet, prayer needs Women Hindu women usually prefer to have a male relative present when dealing with police officers. Diet Dress Bangle A Hindu woman may wear a glass bangle (thali) on getting married and this bangle may only be removed when the husband dies. Breaking or forcefully removing the wedding bangle would be inappropriate and should not be done unless absolutely necessary. Beaded necklace (kanthi) and sacred thread (janoi) Many Hindus wear a khanthi round the neck and/or a janoi, a sacred thread which passes diagonally across the body from the shoulder to about waist height. It should be worn at all times and removing it forcefully would be inappropriate and might be considered to be an insult. Some Hindus also wear a necklace or a wrist band specially made through their priests, which they may need to wear at all time Prayer Ask if there are any specific needs. The Bhagavad Gita (Song of the Lord) is considered to be the central text of authority by all Hindus. If the requested texts are not available in situ, copies may be available from the nearest Mandir/Temple. Addresses of many London Mandirs can be found on the Places of Worship section (select from the menu to the left of this page).
Special issues On this page Fasting In Hindu religion, fasting (Upavaas) is a way of purification of the body, soul and to enhance concentration during worship or meditation. Upa= near; Vaas= living; therefore staying close to God's memory is the essence of fasting. In body, mind and soul there should be integrity of the noble values and blessedness associated with austerities when we are observing a fast. However, fasting is not mandatory. Fasting is commonly practiced on New Moon days and during festivals such as Shiv-Ratri, Saraswati Puja and Durga Puja (also known as Navratri). Women in North India also fast on the day of Karva Chauth for their husband's long and happy life. The specific days for fasting: For God Shiva it is Monday. Lord Ram's, Hanuman's devotees fast on Saturday or Sunday. For Teacher (Guru) and Lord Krishna it could be Thursday. For Goddess Lakshmiji it is Friday. However, elders in the family may decide on different days for fasting according to their family traditions. Depending on the occasion or the individuals, fasting may involve up to 24 hours of complete abstinence from any food or drink. Sometimes it is just an absence of solid foods, with an occasional drink of milk, juice or water. Pure vegetarian food is taken before starting the fast and it is broken by having fruit, milk or juice. Prayer (Puja) is carried out before, during and after the fast. Giving donation (Daan) to the priest, needy and poor is considered to be Holy. Hindu women Spiritual Dignity of women Hindu religion offers equal rights to women and gives them the highest spiritual dignity. The central prayer of the Hindus called the Gayatri addresses God as female. The earliest concept of God in Hinduism was that of Mother Goddess. Many sages, seers and prophets of ancient and modern Hinduism are women. Place of women in Hindu society The scriptures of authority do not suggest subordination or inferiority of women. However some of the law books of Hinduism like the ManuSmriti which were in use during the medieval period portrayed women as subordinate to men. Such teachings were redeemed to a certain extent by a few dictums in the Manusmriti like: 'In the household where women are revered, Gods rejoice' (3.56) Misconception about the place of Hindu women in society There is nothing in the Hindu teachings that suggests that women cannot or should not play an equal role in society. Forced marriage Hinduism encourages arranged marriages which is not the same as forced marriages. Parents searching for suitable matches for their youngsters turn into a form of dating agency finding suitable matches for their youngsters. This has been a highly effective practice allowing youngsters from similar social background to meet each other. This idea is in sharp contrast to the idea of forced marriage where the parents force their youngsters to marry someone against their will. Our external advisers have told us that they have not come across any cases in the UK where Hindu youngsters are forced to marry against their will. More information on forced marriage is available on the Hindu Forum of Britain website. New legislation November 2008 New legislation came into force on November 25th 2008. For further details about the changes to the current legislation, see this Press Association article. Sati The term Sati comes from the narrative of Hindu tradition in reference to a brave woman who chose to die rather than lose her honour. The practice of Sati, or a widow joining her dead husband on the funeral pyre, has no basis in Hinduism. However, it was widely practised in the past. Sati is now illegal and an anathema. Modern Hindu women Hindu teachings offer Hindu women freedom and equality. They are free to pursue any field of activity, secular or spiritual. They may choose any career and in many cases are the main breadwinners in a Hindu home. The dowry system that is visible in India is not prevalent in the UK simply because women are on equal economic footing to men. The dowry system continues in sections of Indian society where women are still viewed as a liability to be disposed of in marriage by paying a dowry but as women continue to gain equal economic status to men, the dowry system becomes irrelevant. "Honour Crimes" in Hinduism "Honour" killing has no basis in religious law. However, in practise, it is the murder of a woman accused of bringing shame upon her family. Men who kill their wives, sisters or daughters argue that a life without honour is not worth living. Hinduism places a great deal of emphasis on reverence for life and the idea of members of a family conspiring to kill one of their own goes strongly against everything taught in the Hindu religion. Our Hindu advisers claim never to have come across any cases of Hindus resorting to honour killings in the United Kingdom. The explanation is that the idea goes strongly against everything Hinduism teaches and it is almost impossible to visualise a situation where a Hindu family will conspire to kill one of their members.
Entering premises
Entering a shrine/temple (mandir)
Humanism On this page: PLEASE NOTE: This section (Humanism) breaks with the pattern established for other faiths - where each subsection (Prayer, Diet, Dress, etc) is given its own page. Due to the nature of Atheism there is not a great deal to say about it in the context of this site, and so the whole Atheism section is contained on this page. You may use the skip links above to jump to the required subsection. Overview
Humanism is the belief that we can live good lives without religious or superstitious beliefs. Humanists make sense of the world using reason, experience and shared human values. We seek to make the best of the one life we have by creating meaning and purpose for ourselves. We take responsibility for our actions and work with others for the common good. Humanism is a democratic and ethical life stance, which affirms that human beings have the right and responsibility to give meaning and shape to their own lives. It stands for the building of a more humane society through an ethic based on human and other natural values in the spirit of reason and free inquiry through human capabilities.
It is not theistic, and it does not accept supernatural views of reality. Many people, even if they do not call themselves Humanists, live their lives along the lines of basic Humanist principles, and many thousands use the services of the British Humanist Association every year. So many people today who do not regard themselves as Humanists or belong to any organisation, live their lives according to Humanist principles. Statistics According to the 2001 census, at least 15.5% of the population is non-religious, making this group the second "belief" group in the UK. Other surveys on religious belief in Britain have found 30 - 40% (and 65% of young people) declaring themselves atheists or agnostics. A Home Office survey (2004) found almost 22% of no faith, and that religion played little part in the lives of most of those calling themselves Christians. Humanists in London There are various groups of Humanists and other non-religious people in London that meet together for social events and discussions. Among these are: North London Humanists (Contact Derek Marcus on 01707 653667) Ealing Humanists (Contact Charles Rudd on 020 8904 6599, email: [email address]
Subdivisions There are no prescriptive subdivisions Places of Worship There are no designated places of worship. Humanist organisations train people to officiate at humanist ceremonies, and compile lists of those who are qualified to do so. Holy Texts There are no prescribed texts. The oath is taken by a secular affirmation. A number of books containing guidelines for use if non-religious ceremonies are required (see Life Cycle, below) are published, including some written by Jane Wynne Wilson for the British Humanist Association Prayer Humanists have no prayers. Main festivals Humanists do not celebrate religious festivals unless they do so in a secular way that celebrates a tradition but unrelated to any belief in the religious significance or worship of God. Diet Humanists have no dietary requirements other than those of the individual. Dress Humanists have no particular dress requirements Language Not relevant Life cycle Religious ceremonies like christenings, weddings and funerals, etc may be marked by Humanist organisations with their own rituals for these events that give them meaning and significance without any religious content. These ceremonies differ from mainstream secular ceremonies like civil weddings, in that they are highly personalised for the individuals concerned. Ethics In practical terms Atheists often follow the same moral code as religious people, but they arrive at the decision of what is good or bad without any help from the idea of God. As might be expected, organ donation is completely left to the individual's personal choice. Many Atheists believe that religion should have no place in politics. (See National Secular Society). Humanists in Custody There are no special needs except those for each individual, but not for any reason of being an Atheist. Atheists do not swear an oath from any religious text including the Bible. They swear a secular affirmation. Entering premises There are no specific requirements regarding the entering of Humanist premises Special Issues The parameters used for other faiths on this site such as festivals, dress, etc are not applicable. As ever, it is the needs of each individual that should be taken into account with a particular sensitivity that religious belief should not be assumed.
Islam Please select the topic you require from the left-hand menu and contacts and links from the right of the page. If you wish to contact us about this section please select the "Contact Us" option on the right of the page. Acknowledgements Many thanks to all those who have so generously helped in the preparation of this section for their help and support, namely the Faith Strand, members of the Muslim community and the MEEM Consultancy. The help of the Muslim Police Association has been invaluable.
Overview On this page: History and Belief System Islam The Arabic word 'Islam' means 'submission' and derives from a word meaning 'peace'. In its religious context it means 'submission' to the will of God. Its followers are called Muslims. Muslims believe in a single God whose name is Allah. They also believe that their faith existed from the time of the world's creation and that it was gradually revealed to humanity by a series of prophets and messengers beginning with Adam and including Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus and finally Muhammed. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) When speaking of the Prophet Muhammad, Muslims follow the name of the Prophet with the phrase "peace be upon them all" and in writing with the acronym (pbuh). The following are the fundamental beliefs of Islam: There is a consensus amongst all Muslims on this creed. The Five Pillars of Islam In addition to these basic beliefs, Muslims have what are known as 'five pillars' in their religion that the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have said should make up the fundamental duties of every believer. Related websites: www.inter-islam.org/ www.islamicinvitationcentre.com/FAQ/basic/FAQ_basic.html#What_is_Islam www.al-sunnah.com/call_to_islam/articles/who_is_allaah.html www.tempemasjid.com/books/islaminfocus/Chapter1_1.html
Muslims in London On this page: Muslims In London Historical Facts: Statistical Facts: Muslims in London www.london.gov.uk/gla/publications/equalities/muslims-in-london.pdf www.bbc.co.uk/london/content/articles/2005/05/26/islam_faith_feature.shtml www.masud.co.uk/ISLAM/bmh/BMH-IRO-historical_overview.htm
Subdivisions On this page: Overview of subdivisions in Islam There are several groups or sects amongst the followers of Islam. The two main groupings are Sunni and Shia. The majority are Sunni while Shia comprise approximately 15% of the world's Muslims. The Sunni sect of Islam comprises of the majority of all Muslims (about 85%). It is broken into four similar schools of thought (madhhabs), which interpret teachings of Islam, such as which foods are halal (permissible), in different opinions. They are named after their founders Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, and Hanbali. Each school of thought differs on minor issues, although they agree on the major points. Shia Islam comprises most of the Muslims that are not counted among the Sunni. The Shia consist of one major school of thought known as the Jafaryia or the "Twelvers" referring to the number of infallible leaders they recognise after the death of Muhammad, and a few minor schools of thought, as the "Zaidi" or the "Ismaili". While some consider that Islamic mysticism (known as Sufism) constitutes a separate branch, most Sufis can easily be considered Sunni or Shia. Sufism is the hardest to understand by non-practitioners because on first sight it seems that Sufis are neither of Shia or Sunni denomination, but it is true that some sects of Sufism can be categorised as both Sunni and Shia whilst others are not from either denomination. Both Shia and Sunni adhere to the same beliefs, but differ in community organisation and in theological and legal practices. Both agree that Muhammad was the last prophet of God, whereas the Sunnis believe that the first Caliph was due to a process of consultation, the Shia believe that only those that were chosen to be the religious leader by the Prophet Muhammed are allowed such a role. Shia believe that the Prophet had appointed his cousin - Ali as his successor, whilst Sunni's believe that the Prophet indicated towards first Caliph Abu Bakr for the role. Later the Shia went on to follow the descendents of Ali as their Imams (religious leaders), and the Sunni Caliphate later went on to embrace several dynasties - the last being the Ottoman empire. Whilst in practice, the Caliph for Sunnis became both the temporal and religious leader, the Imam, as Shia know it, became only the religious leader. The term Imam is also referred to as those that are the leaders of prayers in mosques. The Shia have a level of hierarchy and structure, where the Ayatollahs (religious leaders), are in control of Religious institutions. In Sunni Islam, there is no such hierarchy for Imams, and most of the religious institutions were the responsibility of the state. An Imam is not regarded as a priest, but as a learned and devout man who is highly respected by the local community. He is not necessarily a leader of the community. Only men may fulfil the role of Imam. For modern day purposes Imams are equivalent to rabbis and priests. Certainly in the UK, a resident Imam oversees the religious activities that occur in a mosque rather than just any learned individual and therefore fulfils a similar role to that of a Christian priest or a Jewish Rabbi. Why are there so many subdivisions in Islam and how did they come about if there is only one holy Book? Islam contains basic strands that are often complicated by culture and tradition, hence there are slight variations of Islam. Islam was never meant to be one single faith, but as the message of Islam passed from country to country mainly through travelling tradesmen rather than the sword, those who adopted Islam, adopted the faith into their own culture and exercised jurisprudence on some aspects. Geography of the Sunnis and Shia www.fas.org/irp/crs/RS21745.pdf Links giving further information on subdivisons in Islam Sunni and Shia differences islam.about.com/cs/divisions/f/shia_sunni.htm Sunni philtar.ucsm.ac.uk/encyclopedia/islam/sunni/geness.html philtar.ucsm.ac.uk/encyclopedia/islam/sunni/ Shia www.shia.org/ al-islam.org/ Sufi www.sufimovement.org/whatsufiis.htm www.sufiorder.co.uk/
Places of worship On this page: The Mosque (also known as Masjid) Muslims can worship almost anywhere as long as the location is not considered to be impure. The preferred locations for worship on a daily or weekly basis is the Mosque or the home. Most Mosques have separate areas for men and women to offer their prayers and are laid out so that males and females do not pray in the presence of one another. Some mosques do not have a praying area for women. Mosques are particularly busy on Friday afternoon, the day on which Muslims are required to attend the weekly sermons and offer special prayers. The role of the Mosque The Mosque fulfils many roles in the Muslim community, including:
Layout of a Mosque http://encarta.msn.com/media_461550648_761579171_-1_1/Layout_of_a_Mosque.html
Holy texts On this page: The Qur'an
Handling the Qur'an
Only a Muslim who is ritually cleansed may touch and recite the Qu'ran in it's pure Arabic form.
The Five Pillars of Islam: The basic religious duties of Muslims are described in the Five Pillars of Islam. They are:
The Hadiths: 'Hadith' is the term given to a statement, action or affirmation attributed to the Prophet of Islam, Muhammad. The Hadiths act as a living commentary on the meaning and application of the Qur'an, and provide an extended clarification of a point made in the Qur'an.
The following websites provide further information: Qur'an www.islam101.com/quran/index.htm www.islamicity.com/mosque/SURAI.HTM 5 Pillars www.islamicity.com/mosque/pillars.shtml Hadith www.usc.edu/dept/MSA/fundamentals/hadithsunnah/scienceofhadith/atit.html www.uga.edu/islam/hadith.html
Prayer On this page: The Muslim calendar is 354 days long and 'retreats' each year by 11 days compared to the Western (Gregorian) Calendar. Therefore the Muslim lunar months "shift" annually over a complete 33-year cycle. Daily prayer - five times a day The Salah (prayer) is one of the fundamental aspects of practicing Islam. It is offered fives times a day as a way to remind Muslims of God during their daily lives. A cleansing ritual called Wudhu is carried out by those who wish to pray and involves washing various parts of the body including the face, mouth and feet. The prayer must also be offered in clean clothes and in a clean area.
The Prayer Times:
1st prayer (Fajar) Before sunrise Prayers must be offered facing towards Mecca (Qiblah), which is South-east from the United Kingdom. In the formalized Salah prayer there is a recitation of verses from the Qur'an and a sequence of postures made first from a standing position and then kneeling and bowing the head and forehead touching the ground and finally sitting to end the prayer. Muslims may pray in any clean place, alone or in a congregation of two or more persons. In a congregation. male and female prayer areas are separated. After formal prayers, it is customary, but not compulsory, to offer a supplication to God. This can be done in any language. Most mosques will have a congregation at each of the above prayers where worshippers can pray together led by an Imam, who will usually be the person present with the best knowledge of the Qur'an. Pictures of Muslim prayer can be found on the following website: arabic.speak7.com/prayer.htm Weekly prayer Jummah prayers -The Friday prayer: These prayers occur every week on a Friday afternoon at the mosque. Before the midday prayers the Imam will usually give a talk on a topical subject (Khutba), perhaps an issue in the media that concerns Muslims, and then links with the verse from the Qur'an or an example from the time of the Prophet Muhammad. The majority of Jurists consider it obligatory for a Male Muslim to attend Jummah prayers. Women may pray at home or in their offices (prayer rooms). Janazah prayers -The Funeral prayer: (see Life Cycle section accessed from left-hand menu) These prayers are performed in congregation when a Muslim dies. The structures of these prayers are generally different from the normal daily prayers. Voluntary prayer In addition to formal prayers, Muslims may offer voluntary prayers at any time. How to Pray http://islam.about.com/c/ht/01/03/How_Pray0985072209.htm http://muslim-canada.org/salaat.html http://www.howmuslimspray.com/HowMuslimsPray.doc http://www.themuslimwoman.com/chooseyourpath/basicguidetoprayer/ Prayers within the Met http://intranet.aware.mps/Assns/AMP/Prayers.htm
Main festivals On this page: The Muslim Calendar The Muslim calendar began in the year 622 AD. This was the year that Prophet Muhammad and his companions undertook a historical journey from the city of Mecca to Madinah to escape persecution. This journey is called the Hijrah. Further facts on the Muslim Calendar:
Eid (Festival) Two festivals are known as Eid. They are Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha. Eid ul-Fitr: Typically, Muslims will dress in their best and/or traditional clothes. The day begins with morning prayers at the mosque. At the end of the prayers Muslims greet and hug each other. After this, families and friends will usually visit one other and share food that they have prepared. Some practices that are not considered as part of Eid: As Eid-ul-Fitr is not a recognised public holiday in the UK, some Muslims will attend the mosque in the morning and then go to the work for the rest of the day, postponing celebrations until the weekend. Eid ul-Adha: Traditionally a 3-day long celebration which marks the end of the annual Hajj (pilgrimage) made by millions of Muslims to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Historically the festival also commemorates Prophet Abraham's sacrifice of his son Ishmael for Allah in the Qur'an. Because in the Qur'an, a camel was substituted as a sacrifice in place of Ishmael, Muslim families sacrifice an animal (via a butcher). This can be done in the United Kingdom or overseas. A large proportion of the meat is apportioned for distribution to the poor, and the rest is shared amongst the family. Ashura: Shi'a Muslims use this day to commemorate the martyrdom of Hussein, a grandson of the Prophet in 680 CE. But it is also a day of fasting for Sunni Muslims. (See section on Subdivisions accessed from the menu to the left of the page.) Lailat al Qadr (Night of power): This marks the night on which the Qur'an was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad by Allah. The exact date is unknown, but according to the Prophet it falls on an odd numbered night on one of the last ten nights of Ramadan. During these last nights, many Muslims remain at the mosque offering prayers until the early hours of the morning, and some spend the last few nights of Ramadan in the mosque. More information about festivals may be found at the following websites: www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/islam/holydays/ www.islam.com/MFestivals.htm www.answering-islam.org/Gilchrist/Vol1/8a.html http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muslim_holidays
Diet On this page: Halal and Haram Islamic Law gives clear guidance in respect of food that is Halal (lawful, permitted and beneficial) or Haram (unlawful, forbidden and injurious). Halal In areas where communities of Muslims reside, the word Halal can be seen on various shops. Halal is not a specific type of food, it is an entire approach to producing and consuming food that reflects a way of life. The following are considered to be Halal: All herbivorous animals are Halal. Seafood is also Halal. All animals and birds intended for eating must be slaughtered by a Muslim according to Islamic rules; otherwise their meat will be considered Haram. Fish does not have to be slaughtered, but it is not permissible to eat a fish that has died of natural causes. Haram It is forbidden to kill animals purely for pleasure, or to take life if it is not needed. It is also forbidden to waste food, or any natural resources. Haram does not only apply to foods but also to actions such as drinking alcohol, gambling, charging interest or swearing. The following are considered to be Haram: Further information on Halal may be found on the following websites: www.ifanca.org/halal/ www.isaiowa.org/content.asp?ID=1677 Food labelling http://islam.about.com/cs/dietarylaw/a/halalfood.htm
Dress On this page: Islamic dress Islamic law provides rules of dress for men and women, both of whom are commanded in the Qur'an to "lower their gaze and be modest." Those who embrace Islam as an entire way of life dress in the prescribed manner. However, many Muslims in London do not observe a traditional dress code and dress in modern western clothes. Others adopt a style which combines modern western dress with updated versions of traditional Muslim garments, that are compatible with Islamic principles of modesty. Male dress Whilst Islamic laws governing women's clothing and appearance are obvious, Muslim men also have to abide by certain rules.
Covering the body. It is forbidden for a man to expose the area between his navel and his knees. It is not acceptable to leave any of the shoulder uncovered, especially during prayer. However, many Muslim men prefer not to expose a bare chest or bare legs in public. Men, as well as women, should not wear clothing that is tight or see-through. Indeed, in many Muslim societies the traditional clothing for men includes long, flowing robes, or long tunics that fully cover the body. Men are forbidden to wear anything made from gold (including white gold) or silk, as these luxuries are reserved exclusively for women. When attending a mosque, a man should dress in smart clean clothes. Female Dress Female dress in Islamic culture is based on a principle of modesty. Perhaps the most distinctive (and for some, controversial) aspect as far as women's appearance is concerned is the requirement for hijab (Arabic for 'cover', 'veil', 'curtain') . This is the covering up of the body in public so that only the face and hands are visible. Muslim females start wearing hijab from puberty. Only a mahram, that is a father, husband, brother, uncle, son or nephew, is supposed to see a female without this covering: Customs of time, place, and social class of a woman influence what she wears. There are a variety of types of female dress that ensure that only the face and hands are visible.
For pictures of these garments see the following website : The whole point of the hijab is to protect a woman's modesty. Her clothes should not be tight so as to reveal the shape of the body, nor should they be transparent or in any way see-through. Female clothing must not resemble men's clothing. Other Points about Female Appearance Metropolitan Police Uniform and Muslim dress
Metropolitan Police procedure re prayer and diet on duty Further information on Hijab may be found at the following websites: www.bbc.co.uk/religion/religions/islam/beliefs/hijab_1.shtml www.inter-islam.org/Actions/Hijbdu.html
Language On this page:
Islamic glossary A
Azaan
Ākhirah
Al-hamdu lillāh
Allāh
Allāhu Akbar
Ālim
Āmīn
Asr
As-Salāmu ÔAlaykum
Astaghfirullāh
Audhu billah B
Bismi-llāhi r-rahmāni r-rahīmi D
Da`wah
Deen
Dua
Dhikr E
Eid
Eid ul-Adha
Eid ul-Fitr F
Fajr
Fard
Fatwā G
Ghusl H
Hadith
Halal
Haram
Hafiz
Hajj
Hijab
Hijra I
Iftār
Ihrām
Ijazah
Imām
Imān
Injīl
Insha'Allah
Iqamah
`Īsā
`Ishā'
Islam J
Jahannam
Jahl
JāmiÔah
Janaza
Jannah
Jazakallahu Khayran
Jihād
Jilbāb
JumuÔah K
KaÔbah
Khaøtib
Khutbah
Kitāb
Kufr L
Lā ilāha ill-Allaøh
Laylat al-Qadr M
Madrasah
Maghrib
Mahram
Makrūh
MalāÕikah
Masha Allah
Masjid (Mosque)
Mawlānā
Maulvi
Mecca
Medina
Minaret
Minbar
Mubah
Mufti
Muhammadun rasulullah
Mu'min
Muslim
Mustahabb
Mutawātir N
Nabī
Niqāb P
Prophet
Prayer Q
Qiblah
Qiyaømah
Qutba
Qur'ān R
Rakaat
Riba
Ruk'u S
Sadaqah
Sahabah
Sajda
Salah
Salām
Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam
Sawm
Shahādah
Shaykh
Shaytan
Subhan'allah
Sunnah
Sunni
Shia
Sūrah T
Tajwīd
Takbīr
Taqwa
Tarawih
Tawbah
Tawaf U
Ummah
Umrah W
Wajib
Witr
Wudu Y
Ya Allah Z
Zakat
Zhuhr
External Links www.islamiska.org/e/glossary.htm Naming system There is no precise guidance about Muslim names and most Muslims are increasingly adapting British naming conventions. But in general Muslim males and females tend to have different naming systems from one another and so members of the same family may have completely different surnames. In addition, married women do not normally adopt their husband's name. When a full Muslim name is used, omitting any part of the name, or changing it in any way, such as the order of the names, can substantially change the meaning. Male Names Men usually have two or more names. The name Ali may be used as either a personal or religious name. Examples of male names are Muhammed Iqbal or Muhammed Rafiq. Addressing a muslim male by name
1. A Muslim man is not usually addressed only by his formal name.
Female Names Most Muslim women have two names Addressing a muslim female by name
A Muslim woman can be addressed informally by her personal name, e.g. Yasmin, or by her full name, e.g. Yasmin Begum. More information More information about Muslim names can be found on the following websites:www.names4muslims.com/ www.radioislam.co.za/Muslim%20Names/muslim%20names%20main.htm
Life cycle On this page: Male Circumcision Male circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin. Circumcision is not compulsory in Islam but it is a practised ritual aimed at improving cleanliness. It is strongly encouraged but not enforced. The ritual dates back to the time of the Prophet Muhammad. According to tradition Muhammad was born without a foreskin. This is the reason that some Muslims practise circumcision. In Islam there is no fixed age for circumcision. The age at which it is performed varies depending on the family and the region or country of origin. The preferred age is often seven although some Muslims are circumcised as early as the seventh day after birth and as late as puberty. There is no equivalent of a Jewish 'mohel' in Islam. Circumcisions are usually carried out in a clinic or hospital. The person performing the circumcision is not required to be a Muslim but must be medically trained.
Female Circumcision This is not allowed in Islam. Though some Muslim communities do perform this as part of their cultural tradition, particularly in some countries in North Africa. Marriage Muslims marry according to Islamic law and the civil law of the land in which they live. Though many wedding customs are based in tradition and culture, there are certain features which are basic to all Muslim marriages: Death and Burial At the time of death a Muslim is encouraged to recite the Shahada, (the declaration of faith): "There is no God but Allah and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah". Cremation is forbidden to Muslims. Burial should take place as soon as possible after death has occurred, and usually within 24 hours. Muslims are usually buried before noon and not after the hours of darkness. Delays may sometimes occur because of the legal formalities that have to be completed before a certificate for disposal is given by the Registrar of Births and Deaths. The body is buried facing Mecca. As soon as possible after death an Imam is informed and prayers from the Qu'ran are said over the body. The body is then taken to the funeral director's premises where it is washed by family members of the same gender as the deceased. Special arrangements can be made with the Funeral Director to ensure that the room is ritually purified and has been cleared of any statues or religious symbols. After the body has been washed, it is wrapped in a simple white cotton sheet or shroud (kafan). All Muslims are dressed alike to symbolize their equality before God; however, if the deceased dies as a martyr he or she is buried in the clothes in which they died. The body is then placed in an unlined coffin. If an autopsy has to be performed, it should be done with sensitivity towards the family, as Muslims strive to keep the body as intact as possible in order to avoid embalming or disturbances. This is because of the belief that the body will be resurrected on the Day of Judgement. The deceased is then taken to the site of the funeral prayers (salat-l-janazah). An Imam stands in front of the deceased, facing away from the worshippers. The funeral prayer is similar in structure to the five daily prayers but there is no bowing or prostration, and except for a few words, the prayers are silent. After prayers the deceased is taken to the place of burial (al-dafin). While men and women may attend the funeral prayers, it is customary only for men of the community to accompany the body to the graveside. Muslims prefer to bury their dead close to where the death took place as transporting the body any distance might cause delay and require the body to be embalmed. If available, ground set aside for Muslim burial is preferred. The deceased is laid in the grave with his or her right side facing Mecca (south-east in the UK).
Janazah prayers -The Funeral prayer These prayers are performed by a congregation when a Muslim dies. The structure of these prayers is usually different from the standard daily prayers. Further information Female Circumcision www.minaret.org/fgm.htm Marriage www.al-islam.org/m_morals/index.htm
Ethics On this page: Abortion Muslims regard abortion as wrong and forbidden, but many accept that it may be permitted in certain cases. All schools of Muslim Law accept that abortion is permitted if continuing the pregnancy would put the mother's life in real danger. It is only in this case where abortion after 120 days of the pregnancy is allowed. Different schools of Muslim law hold different views on whether any other reasons for abortion are permitted, and at what stage of pregnancy. Some scholars state that abortion is permissible in the first 120 days of the pregnancy where the mother is the victim of rape or incest. Some schools of Muslim law permit abortion in the first 16 weeks of pregnancy, while others only permit it in the first 7 weeks. However, even those scholars who would permit early abortion in certain cases still regard abortion as wrong, but do not regard it as a punishable wrong. The more advanced the pregnancy, the greater the wrong. The Qur'an does not explicitly refer to abortion but offers guidance on related matters. Scholars accept that this guidance can properly be applied to abortion. Birth control Birth control in Islam is considered only within marriage. There is nothing in Islam that prohibits birth control so long as it is done consensually for certain reasons such as putting off pregnancy until such time as the spouses are in a better position to shoulder the responsibilities of parenting, or to allow for space between pregnancies in order to provide proper nurturing and care of existing children, etc. Birth control is, however, forbidden or undesirable when it is resorted to as a permanent measure to prevent conception altogether or for fear of poverty. Some influential Islamic religious leaders vehemently oppose contraception.
Organ donation Muslims permit this, though the sale of organs is not permitted.
Further information Abortion www.irfi.org/articles/articles_101_150/abortion.htm Organ Donation www.uktransplant.org.uk/
Muslims in custody On this page: In general… As with all faiths, there are varying degrees of observance in Islam that range from highly orthodox to completely non-observant. Therefore, it is important from first contact that the individual's needs are ascertained by asking what is required. There may be no special needs or there may be many. Diet If the person in custody eats only Halal food (click on Diet on left hand menu for details of Halal), then there are sealed, ready-made sandwiches and meals available. To prepare acceptable Halal food from scratch without special facilities, separate cooking utensils, etc. would be difficult and might not meet the requirements of an orthodox Muslim. Some supermarkets, including Tescos, stock Halal sandwiches. Local shops that stock appropriate Halal food can be identified and listed for when the need arises. Ready-made Halal sandwiches Serving Halal meals Heat and serve food in its sealed container. If Halal food is stored in a refrigerator, it should be completely sealed in its original container and stored separately, preferably on a separate shelf that is covered in foil. Unused paper plates and cups and plastic cutlery may be used, but notregular crockery or cutlery that has been used for non-Halal food and then washed. Once Halal food comes into direct contact with food that is not Halal then it immediately becomes Haram and therefore cannot be eaten by an orthodox Muslim. Inform the person in custody how you intend to store the food in order to reassure them and ask if this is acceptable to them. Removal of hijabs and duputas for women prisoners in police custody This may be necessary where a risk assessment of the individual would indicate it was prudent to remove a head covering or other article of clothing that a prisoner could use to harm him/herself. Essentially, custody officers should (where possible) make efforts to preserve the dignity of individual's faith beliefs by ensuring an alternative is available such as a disposable paper head covering that could not be used for self harm. There is no corporate-wide, central provision by the MPS for this issue, but custody managers can contact local places of worship for advice. Photographing For those who wear head coverings as part of their religious or cultural beliefs and need to be photographed, the advice given on the government website for passport photographs [http://www.passport.gov.uk/downloads/PLE_04Eng-Photo.pdf] is currently being used as the benchmark for this issue. Prayer Prayer facilities in custody suites At present there is no centralised process within the MPS, though this is being discussed. At present some boroughs have developed local practices regarding the provision of prayer mats, the Qur'an, etc. Refusing permission for a person to pray immediately after they have been arrested The DPS received a complaint from a Muslim prisoner that he had not been allowed to pray when he had been arrested at his home. The officers were correct in telling the person that he would have the opportunity to pray once he was at the station. Ramadhan
The implications of a Muslim being in custody, and of Muslim staff dealing with those in custody should be taken into account. For a concise Custody document see AMP intranet page:
The MPS document below is specifically for MPS staff, but gives useful guidelines: Memorandum
To: From: Director of Human Resources 28th November, 2007 Ramadhan starts on or around the 14th of September and lasts for one month. Because Ramadhan is based on the lunar cycle it is difficult to forecast exactly when it will end, but this should be on or around the 14th of October. Also the different sects like Shia, Sunni etc within Islam, may interpret the lunar cycle differently, making the dates out of sync by one day with the other sects. It is therefore conceivable that two Muslims working in the same department may have the start of Ramadhan and possibly Eid-ul-Fitr on different days. During Ramadhan all Muslims fast during the hours of daylight and they will observe other religious obligations more closely than usual during this period e.g. praying five times a day. Also during the last ten days of Ramadhan most Muslims attend mosque on a more frequent basis due to the increased religious importance of the dates. At the end of the Ramadhan fasting, the festival of Eid-ul-Fitr takes place for one day. On the day of the celebration, a typical Muslim family gets up very early and attends special prayers held only for the occasion in big mosques, in large open areas, stadiums or arenas.This places strict requirements on all Muslims to pray in congregation on that day. Some Muslim staff may ask for time off for this important day. I ask that all HR managers take a flexible approach with Muslim members of staff who may need special dispensation during this time.
Please refer to the AMP intranet web site if you require any further information Director of Human Resources
Special issues On this page: Forced marriages Guidelines are available from ACPO, together with the Home Office and the Foreign N Commonwealth Office at: http://www.lbp.police.uk/publications/dealing_with.htm New legislation November 2008 New legislation came into force on November 25th 2008. For further details about the changes to the current legislation, see this Press Association article Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act 2007 www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2007/pdf/ukpga_20070020_en.pdf This new legislation is aimed at protecting the victims of forced marriages and prevents them from taking place. Under the Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act, where a forced marriage has or is about to take place, courts will be able to make orders to protect the victim or the potential victim and help remove them from that situation. The Forced Marriage Unit was set up jointly by the Home Office and the Foreign and Commonwealth Officer in 1995. It sees around 250 cases a year. "There used to be confusion between forced and arranged marriages," explains a member of unit staff. "They were seen as being part of a certain culture. But that's changing now. Forced marriage is not a religious or cultural issue - it is a global human rights abuse". Forced marriage means just that - where a victim (one was 13 years old) is told they have to get married and they don't want to. Dr Ghayasuddin Siddiqui, the leader of the Muslim Parliament of Great Britain points out that forced marriage is not religious practice and should not be tolerated in Muslim communities anywhere within the UK. "This is not a religious problem - it's a cultural one," he says, "Its really prevalent in rural villages in Pakistan and Bangladesh and they think it is Islamic. But it certainly isn't. "In Islam marriage is a social contract which needs the WILLING consent of both partners and without that, it's rape. The union is not legal and children produced from a forced marriage are not considered born of a legal union under Islam." Dr Siddiqui also says political correctness has contributed to the problem. A lack of understanding of the religious teaching has left some teachers and social workers reluctant to intervene. They have been afraid to speak out in case they are criticised for not accepting multiculturalism. He also has particular criticism for the Imams in many mosques who give some veiled justification to the whole issue of forced marriage. "Many of the mosques in the UK are tribal mosques. So the people who all worship there come from the same places back in Pakistan and will bring an imam in from there. He then keeps the idea of forced marriage going here and so it's a vicious circle. The differences between the sexes makes it difficult for many girls to get help and Dr Siddiqui understands this very well. "It can be very hard to get help within the Muslim community," he said, "I would say try and talk to your siblings if you can. Remember if you don't want to get married you are not being un-Islamic. You're not doing anything wrong or illegal. If you have the courage to go it alone then do that." The legal position The Marriage Act 1949 and the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 govern the law on marriage in England and Wales. The minimum age at which a person is able to consent to marriage is 16; a person between the ages of 16 and 18 may not marry without parental consent (unless the young person is a widow/widower). Section 12c of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 states that a marriage shall be voidable if "either party to the marriage did not validly consent to it, whether in consequence of duress, mistake, unsoundness of mind or otherwise". Voidable means the marriage is valid until it is challenged by one of the parties, at which time the court can award a decree of nullity invalidating the marriage. Although there is no specific criminal offence of "forcing someone to marry" within England and Wales [1], criminal offences may nevertheless be committed. Perpetrators - usually parents or family members - could be prosecuted for offences including threatening behaviour, assault, kidnap, abduction, imprisonment and, in the worst cases, murder. Sexual intercourse without consent is rape, regardless of whether this occurs within the confines of a marriage. A girl who is forced to marry is likely to be raped and may be raped until she becomes pregnant. The definition of domestic violence is "any criminal offence arising out of physical, sexual, psychological, emotional or financial abuse by one person against a current or former partner in a close relationship, or against a current or former family member".
Possible offences include: Common assault S.29 Criminal Justice Act 1988
Common assault (arrestable offence) Chapter 28, Part 2, S.10 Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act, 2004
Cruelty to persons under 16 (including neglect and abandonment) S.1 (1) Children and Young Persons Act 1933
Failure to secure regular attendance at school of a registered pupil S.444 (1) Education Act 1996
Theft (e.g. passport) S.1 (1) Theft Act 1968
Child Abduction S.1 (1) Child Abduction Act 1984
Abduction of unmarried girl under the age of 16 from parent or guardian S.20 (1) Sexual Offences Act 1956
Abduction of a woman by force or for the sake of her property S.17 (1) Sexual Offences Act 1956
Rape S.1 (1) Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 2003
Aiding and abetting a criminal offence Common Law Offence
Kidnapping Common Law Offence
False Imprisonment Common Law Offence
Murder Common Law Offence
[1] At the time of publication, the Government is undertaking consultation on this issue. Honour killings Honour killing has no basis in Islamic religious law. However, in practice, it is the murder of a woman accused of bringing shame upon her family. Men who kill their wives, sisters or daughters argue that a life without honour is not worth living. Individuals, usually young women, face either being killed by family members or driven to suicide as a result of the shame perceived to have been caused by their behaviour. Sometimes these women are returned to the country of the family's origin to be killed, and sometimes they are killed in this country. It has been known for gay men to suffer the same fate, also for bringing shame on the family. Killings are often disguised as suicide, fire or an accident. In 2003 the Metropolitan Police set up a strategic task force to tackle the issue. A specialist unit was given the task of researching honour crimes and 100 murder files spanning the last decade were re-opened in an effort to find common links. The move followed the killing of a teenage girl in a Kurdish family in London. In 2002, Heshu Yones, 16, was stabbed to death by her father, Abdullah, because he disapproved of her Western dress and Christian boyfriend. Mr Yones then cut his own throat and attempted suicide by jumping from a third floor balcony. At his murder trial in 2003 he begged the judge to sentence him to death. Yones, a political refugee, who had fled Saddam Hussein's regime 10 years previously, was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of his daughter. Some of the most common reasons for murdering a family member include refusal to enter an arranged marriage, seeking a divorce - even from an abusive husband - or committing adultery. In some cases, women who have been sexually assaulted or raped are then murdered for the 'dishonour' of having been a victim of an attack.
Entering premises
Entering a Mosque / Masjid This list is not exhaustive. When in doubt, seek further advice and guidance.
FAQs On this page: FAQs [ Provided by the Muslim Police Association ] 1: What is the meaning of the word Islam? The word Islam means total submission to the Will of Allah Almighty. 2. What are the teachings of Islam? The foundation of the Islamic faith is belief in the Unity of God. This means to believe that there is only one Creator and Sustainer of everything in the Universe, and that nothing is divine or worthy of being worshipped except for Him. Truly believing in the Unity of God means much more than simply believing that there is "One God". In Islam, there is a clear distinction between the Creator and the created. There is no ambiguity in divinity - anything that is created is not deserving of worship and only the Creator is worthy of being worshipped. Muslims believe that even though God is Unique and beyond comprehension - He has no partners or associates. According to Muslim belief, Almighty God "does not beget nor was He begotten" - neither literally, allegorically, metaphorically, physically or metaphysically - He is Absolutely Unique and Eternal. Also, the belief in the Unity of God is not merely a metaphysical concept. It is a dynamic belief that affects ones view of humanity, society and all aspects of life. As a logical corollary to the Islamic belief in the Oneness of God, is its belief in the oneness of mankind and humanity. 3. What is the Islamic greeting? The Islamic greeting of Peace is “Assalam-u-Alaikum” (Peace be upon you) and in reply “Walaikum-assalam” 4. Who is Allah? He is the Creator, Sustainer, and Cherisher of entire universe known, unknown. He is one and only. The Qur'an gives us 99 attributes of Allah. 5. Why has Allah Created Us? To worship Him alone and to worship no other besides Him as mentioned in the holy Qur'an chapter 51:56. 6: What is the Qur'an? The Qur'an, the last revealed word of God, is the primary source of every Muslim's faith and practice. It deals with all the subjects which concern human beings: wisdom, doctrine, worship, transactions, law, etc., but its basic theme is the relationship between God and His creatures. At the same time, it provides guidelines and detailed teachings for a just society, proper human conduct, and an equitable economic system. 7: Why cannot a Muslim be called Muhammadan? The word Muslim means ' submitting ones Will to Allah Almighty', therefore the correct term is Muslim. 8: Who is Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)? Muhammad (pbuh) was born in Makkah in the year 570AD. Since His father died before His birth and mother died shortly after His birth, His Uncle who was from the respected tribe of Quraysh raised him. He was raised unlettered, unable to read or write and remained so till His death. As He grew up, He became known as truthful, honest, trustworthy, generous and as a sincere tradesman and was even given the title Trustworthy for His renowned honesty amongst people. He married at the approx age of 25 years old when a businesswoman who was 15 years His senior proposed and their marriage lasted for 25 years when she died at the age of 65. At the age of forty, Muhammad (pbuh) received His first revelation from God through the Angel Gabriel. The revelations continued for twenty-three years, and they are collectively known as the Quran. As soon as He began to recite the Qur'an and started to preach the truth to His small group of followers He was Persecuted to such an extent that in the year 622AD, God commanded them to migrate to the city of Medina, which marks the beginning of the Muslim calendar AH. He is the Last Messenger from God till the Day of Judgment & His prophet hood is for the entire world. He spent 10 years in Makkah & 13 years in Medina to preach Islam; He died at the age of 63. 9: Does a prophet always bring a holy book or message? To every nation was sent a Guide or a Messenger as mention in Qur'an chapter 35:24. 25 Prophets mentioned by name in the Qur'an Stories only of some prophets mentioned in Qur'an More than 1,24,000 Messengers according to Hadith Previous Messengers were only sent for their people and nation and their complete message was meant only for a particular time period. 10: Where is Islamic law derived from? The Islamic Law is derived from the Holy Qur'an and the Hadith (i.e. the traditions and sayings of the Prophet Muhammad pbuh) 11: What are the articles of faith in Islam? 12. What are the 5 Pillars of Islam? 13. How many times a day Muslim prays? Five times a day as follows: 14. How do Muslims call for Prayer? A “human cry” (Adhan) brings the followers to prayers. A man calls out to his fellow men to come to prayers in the name of God. Any man can do this, but a special man who has a good voice does it, and is called a Muedhin. The call for prayer is as follow
“Allah is Great! Allah is Great! 15. How does a Muslim perform the prayer? A Muslim starts his prayers standing, then he kneels, bows down and places his forehead right on to the ground so that the nose also touches it and finally sitting to end the prayer. No position is too humble when one is before God. Muslims may pray in any place, alone or in congregation two or more persons. In our prayers we stand, kneel, and place our foreheads touching the ground many times. 16. Do Muslims wash or clean before they pray? Its mentioned in the Holy Qur'an Chapter 5:6 to wash your faces and your hands (forearms) up to the elbows, rub (by passing wet hands over) your heads, and (wash) your feet up to the ankles before standing for prayer. 17. Can a Muslim say the prayer anywhere or only in a mosque? A Muslim can say his prayers anywhere in a park. Any clean place can be a place of prayer. Our Prophet once said, “The whole earth has been made pure for my Ummah”. 18. Do Muslims have a Holy day in a week? Friday is a day for congregational prayers soon after mid-day, when after a short sermon the prayers is lead by an imam in a mosque. It is mentioned in the following verses of the Holy Qur'an Chapter 62:9-10 to leave your business and attend for prayer. 19. Is there a system of priesthood in Islam? There is no clergy system in Islamic law. An Imam is appointed in a mosque to carry out various religious duties. 20. Why do Muslims follow the lunar calendar instead of the solar calendar? As per the solar calendar, every year the months fall in the same respective seasons of that location. The lunar calendar has about 11 days less than the solar calendar. Thus, every year, the month of the lunar calendar occurs 11 days prior to what it had occurred in the previous solar year. Thus, in a span of about 33 lunar years a human being will experience all the different seasons for one particular month of the lunar calendar. This is very important because the yearly activities of a Muslim are based on the lunar calendar. Certain months like Ramadan and Hajj are very important to the Muslims. During Ramadan a Muslim has to fast which includes abstaining from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. If the Islamic months were based on the solar calendar where the seasons were fixed, then people living in certain parts of the world would have Ramadan in summer while in other parts of the world it would be winter. Some Muslims would have to fast for a longer period of time where the days are long while other Muslims would have to fast for shorter period of time where the days are short. If the seasons did not change, then Muslims living in some parts of the world may feel that they are at a disadvantage throughout their lives. By following the lunar calendar, every Muslim has a taste of fasting in different seasons and for a different time period, in a span of about 33 years of his life.
21. Do Islam and Christianity have different origins? No. Together with Judaism, they go back to the prophet and patriarch Abraham, and their three prophets are directly descended from his sons, Muhammad (PBUH) from the elder son Ishmael, and Moses and Jesus from the younger son Isaac. Abraham established the settlement, which today is the city of Makkah, and built the Ka'abah towards which all Muslims turn when they pray. 22. What is the position of Mary, the Mother of Jesus (PBUH) in Islam? Qur'an chapter 19 called Mary dedicated to Mary the Mother of Jesus. She is mentioned as a righteous, saintly and God-fearing pious woman. 23. What is the position of Jesus (PBUH) in Islam? Muslims respect and revere Jesus (peace be upon him). They consider him one of the greatest of God's messengers to mankind. The Quran confirms his virgin birth, and a chapter 19 of the Quran is entitled `Maryam' (Mary). Jesus was born miraculously by the command of God, the same command that had brought Adam into being with neither a father nor a mother. During his prophetic mission, Jesus performed many miracles. Muslims believe that Jesus was not crucified. It was the plan of Jesus' enemies to crucify him, but God saved him and raised him up to Him. And the likeness of Jesus was put over another man. Jesus' enemies took this man and crucified him, thinking that he was Jesus. Neither Muhammad (pbuh) nor Jesus came to change the basic doctrine of the belief in one God, brought by earlier prophets, but rather to confirm and renew it. 24. What is the Ka'abah? The Ka'abah is the place of worship, which God commanded Abraham and Ishmael to build over four thousand years ago. The building was constructed of stone on what many believe it was the original site of a sanctuary established by Adam. God commanded Abraham to summon all mankind to visit this place, and when pilgrims go there today they say 'At Thy service, O Lord', in response to Abraham's summons. 25. Why do Muslims abuse non-Muslims by calling them `Kafirs'? Kafir' means one who rejects. `Kafir' is derived from the word `kufr', which means to conceal or to reject. In Islamic terminology, `Kafir' means one who conceals or rejects the truth of Islam and a person who rejects Islam is in English called a `non-Muslim'. 26. How does someone become a Muslim? By Simply declaring, “there is no deity worthy of worship beside God (Allah), and Muhammad is the Messenger of God (Allah).” By this declaration the believer announces his or her faith in all God's Messengers, and the Scriptures they brought. 27. Name some of things that Islam says it is wrong to do? The Shari `ah (Islamic Law) forbids the consumption of those things which are injurious to man's physical, mental or moral existence. It forbids the consumption of blood, flesh of pig, beast of prey, poisonous and unclean animal and carcases and intoxicants such as drugs and Alcohol. All of these have undesirable affects on the physical, moral, intellectual and spiritual life of man. Islam forbids nudity for both men and women and orders them to wear decent and dignified dress. Islam forbids suicide and emphasises on man that life belongs to God. Islam has strictly forbidden the telling of lies in any shape or form, for lies not only harm other people but also become a source of menace to society. It has also totally forbidden theft, bribery, forgery, cheating, the levying of interest and usury, Back-biting and slander for whatever one gains by these means is obtained by causing loss and injury to others. Gambling, speculation and all games of chance have been prohibited. Adultery, fornication and unnatural sexual indulgence have been strictly prohibited. Respect others' feeling and avoid indecent and abusive language to each other. When dealing with non-Muslims, the believers have been instructed not to be intolerant or narrow-minded. They have been commanded not to speak ill of their religious leaders or saints, not to say anything insulting about their religion. 28. Is eating of pork forbidden in Islam? The fact that consumption of pork is prohibited in Islam is well known. Pork prohibited in Qur'an The Qur'an prohibits the consumption of pork in no less than 4 different places. It is prohibited in 2:173, 5:3, 6:145 and 16:115. The above verses of the Holy Qur'an are sufficient to satisfy a Muslim as to why pork is forbidden. 29. Is consumption of alcohol prohibited in Islam? Prohibition of alcohol in the Qur'an The Glorious Qur'an prohibits the consumption of alcohol in the following verse: Al-Qur'an chapter 5:90 Thus there is no excuse for a nip or a tot. Not only those who drink alcohol are cursed but also Allah curses those who deal with them directly or indirectly. 30. What is the ruling regarding suicide in Islam? Suicide is when a person kills himself intentionally by whatever means. This is haram (forbidden) and regarded as amongst the major sins, and likewise included in the general statement of Allah (the Exalted) in the Holy Qur'an chapter 4:93 In reality, the one who commits suicide generally does so because of his desperate situation, either as a direct result of an act of Allah or a human being. So you find him unable to cope with that which has afflicted him, and in actual fact he is like one who is calling for help from the scorching heat of the fire. So he has progressed from that which was tough (bad) to that which is worse. And if he was patient enough, then Allah would have assisted him in dealing with the difficulty. 31. What does Islam say about war? Islam permits fighting in self-defence, in defence of religion, or on the part of those who have been expelled forcibly from their homes. It lays down strict rules of combat, which include prohibitions against harming civilians and against destroying crops, trees and livestock. As Muslims see it, injustice would be triumphant in the world if good men were not prepared to risk their lives in a righteous cause. The Quran says in chapter 2:190 but if the enemy seeks peace then you seek peace (8:61). 32. What is the meaning of the word Jihad? The term jihad literally means 'struggle', against every evil. The inner struggle everyone wages against egotistic desires, for the sake of attaining inner peace. 33. What does Islam say about the needy and the orphans? A chapter 107 called "Small Kindness" shows great importance to needy and orphans and Allah shows His displeasure on those who fail to show fairness. 34. What is the position of women in Islam? Islam sees a woman, whether single or married, as an individual in her own right, with the right to own and dispose of her property and earnings without any guardianship over her (whether that be her father, husband, or anyone else). She has the right to buy and sell, give gifts and charity, and may spend her money as she pleases. The groom gives a marriage dowry to the bride for her own personal use, and she keeps her own family name rather than taking her husband's. Islam encourages the husband to treat his wife well, as the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said: {the best among you are those who are best to their wives.} Mothers in Islam are highly honoured. Islam recommends treating them in the best way. A man came to the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and said, “O Messenger of God! Who among the people is the most worthy of my good companionship?” The Prophet (pbuh) said: {your mother.} The man said, “Then who?” The Prophet (pbuh) said: {Then your mother.} The man further asked, “Then who?” The Prophet (pbuh) said: {Then your mother.} The man asked again, “Then who?” The Prophet (pbuh) said: {Then your father.} 35. How do Muslims view death? Muslims believe that the present life is only a trial preparation for the next realm of existence. Basic articles of faith include: the Day of Judgment, resurrection, Heaven and Hell. When a Muslim dies, he or she is washed, usually by a family member, wrapped in a clean white cloth, and buried with a simple prayer preferably the same day. Muslims consider this one of the final services they can do for their relatives, and an opportunity to remember their own brief existence here on earth. The Prophet taught that three things can continue to help a person even after death; charity which he had given, knowledge which he had taught and prayers on their behalf by a righteous child. 36. Why do Muslims bury dead bodies instead of cremating them, i.e. burning them?
Further information:
Jainism Please note This section of the Policing Diversity reference site will be available in the near future. Please check back for regularly updated information
Judaism Please select the topic you require from the left-hand menu and contacts and links from the right of the page. If you wish to contact us about this section please select the "Contact Us" option on the right of the page. Acknowledgements Many thanks to all those who have so generously helped in the preparation of this section, in particular those in the Faith Strand, members of the Jewish Police Association.
Overview: History and belief system Judaism was founded in the Middle East around 3,500 years ago. It is the oldest monotheistic (belief in one God) religion. It originates in the covenant made between God and Abraham when he was called to travel to Canaan, which is now Palestine and Israel, a land which God promised to give to Abraham's descendants. About 450 years later, another covenant was made, between God and Moses and the Jews who had been led out of slavery in Egypt to return to Canaan. At Mount Sinai, God is believed to have given the Jews the 10 Commandments and the Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament) on which Judaism is based. This covenant was an agreement between God and the Jewish people that they would acknowledge God and keep his laws, and in turn, God would acknowledge the Israelites as his chosen people.
Jews in London On this page: History There were Jews living in England in Roman and Anglo Saxon times, but not in organized communities. From 1066, William the Conqueror encouraged Jewish merchants and artisans from Northern France to move to England. They established communities in London, York, Bristol, Canterbury and other major cities. Jews were expelled from England in 1290 by Edward 1 and readmitted by Oliver Cromwell in 1655 since which time there has been a continuous Jewish community in London. British Jewry received formal emancipation in 1858. Today There are around 12 million Jews in the world today, of which around 320,000 live in the UK. It is estimated that there are around 185,000 Jews living in Greater London - that is 56% of the Jewish population of Great Britain. There are large communities in Golders Green, Finchley, Hendon, Hampstead, Hampstead Garden Suburb, St John's Wood and Stamford Hill. In Greater London sizeable communities can be found in Edgware and Stanmore in Middlesex and Ilford in Essex, the last of which has the largest concentration of Jews in Europe. Golders Green is often regarded as the heart of Jewish London with kosher restaurants and cafés, bakeries, butchers, supermarkets, Jewish book shops and gift shops and kosher hotels. In the area are dozens of synagogues and shtiblekh (kh pronounced like Scottish loch), which are small prayer houses for the highly orthodox Chassidic communities (For more information on this community group select Subdivisions from the menu to the left of the page). Finchley is home to the Sternberg Centre, the largest Jewish community centre in Europe. It offers Reform religious services and education (select Subdivisions from left of screen for more information on Reform Judaism). The centre is also home to the London Museum of Jewish Life, which reflects community life in England since 1656 through documents, photographs and objects. It includes a biblical garden and a Holocaust memorial.
The office of the Chief Rabbi and the London Beth Din (Jewish Court) is located in London at Adler House in Finchley. Rabbi Dr Abraham Levy (Sephardic) is Communal Rabbi and Spiritual Head of the Spanish and Portuguese Jews' Congregation in Great Britain . Both are based in London.
Board of Deputies of British Jews Community Security Trust
The Eruv See the map provided for the exact location.
Subdivisions On this page: Diagram of subdivisions The Jewish community consists of two major groups: the greater number being Ashkenazic (meaning German) Jews, and a smaller number, Sephardic (meaning Spanish) Jews. Rabbi Sir Jonathan Sacks (Ashkenazic) is The Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the Commonwealth. Rabbi Dr Abraham Levy (Sephardic) is Communal Rabbi and Spiritual Head of the Spanish and Portuguese Jews' Congregation in Great Britain . Both are based in London.
The British Board of Deputies of British Jews
Ashkenazic Community The Ashkenazic community descend from Jews who settled in the German speaking lands of western Europe in the 9th century and later moved eastwards across Europe, mainly due to persecutions in the 11th and 14th centuries at the time of the Crusades and the Black Death. Jews also migrated across the world from Europe at the time of the second world war. The Ashkenazic community itself divides into sub-divisions of varying degrees of orthodoxy. The following are ordered from most to least orthodox.
Chassidism (Ch is pronounced as in the Scottish loch) Chassidim (followers of Chassidism) make up only a tiny percentage of the Jewish community in London, but are instantly identifiable by their appearance. They live an all-embracing, traditional Jewish life and tend not to participate in the modern, secular world. There is no separation between religious life and secular life. This religious group does not, as many believe, have its origins in ancient times. It was founded in eastern Europe in the middle of the 18th century and is one of the newer movements of Judaism. Chassidic Dress. Chassidic men dress in black, have long side curls and wear black hats, or dark hats decorated with fur. Their exact dress depends on the sect to which they are attached. The women dress modestly, covering their bodies from neck to ankle and wear either headscarves or wigs to cover their hair (for further information select Dress section from left hand margin). Men and women stay separate unless they are husband and wife. At the highest level of orthodoxy, men and women even have separate queues in the supermarket. Gender division - Chassidic community When coming into contact with the Chassidic community, male officers should speak only to Chassidic men, not to the women. Women officers should speak only to the women and not to Chassidic men. Orthodox, Reform and Liberal movements Orthodox Judaism Orthodox Judaism, represented in London mainly by the United Synagogue and to a lesser extent by the Federation of Synagogues is the modern orthodox wing of Judaism. These Jews live a secular life, but usually observe the dietary laws of kashrut and many of the men keep their heads covered, usually with a skull cap (cuppal, kippah, yarmulka) or a hat. They are integrated into the general community, but many attend synagogue for the three daily services and on Sabbath (Shabes or Shabat which takes place on Friday evening and Saturday) and the festivals (select relevant section on Sabbath and festival customs from menu to left of page). Gender division - orthodox community Although some orthodox men and women will have no problem with dealing with officers of the opposite sex, others will, so it is best to act with caution and ensure that 'same-sex' officers are available whenever possible. Reform Jews Reform Jews embrace modern western culture in customs, dress and common practices. There is complete gender equality in religious study, ritual and observance. They believe in the individual interpretation of Jewish Law and therefore the individual's right to decide which observances to follow. Their representative organisation is The Movement for Reform Judaism. Somewhere between modern orthodox and reform is the fast-growing Masorti community. Liberal Judaism Liberal Judaism is the least traditional of any of the communities mentioned above. Like Reform Judaism it combines respect for Jewish heritage with positive acceptance of the modern world. It stresses the full equality and participation of men and women in every sphere of religious life. Gender division - Reform and Liberal communities There would be no problem with gender difference when entering a Reform or Liberal synagogue, and it will be obvious that men and women sit together and some women wear skullcaps like the men and even the prayer shawls. There might be either a male or female rabbi. Only men can be rabbis and prayer leaders in orthodox synagogues. Further information on these forms of Ashkenazic Judaism may be found by selecting the Places of Worship section to the left of the page). Sephardic Community The smaller community of Sephardic Jews originated in Spain and Portugal from where they fled during the Spanish Inquisition in the 15th century. The oldest synagogue still in use in Britain, completed in 1701, the Bevis Marks Synagogue in the City of London, is a Sephardic synagogue. There have been three main periods of migration to England, the first from Spain and Portugal, the second in the first decade of the 20th century from Turkey and Greece and then a large influx in the 1950s from North Africa, and various Arab countries, such as Morocco, Libya, Sudan, Iraq, and Iran. Sephardim have their own traditional language known either as Ladino or Judezmo. It is written in Hebrew script and is a mixture of 15th century Castilian Spanish spoken at the time of the Inquisition and some Hebrew. Although the language is today only spoken by a few older members of the Sephardic Community, a rich culture of song and literature survives. Because of their different origins and language, various religious terms differ from those of the Ashkenazic community, eg. the skull cap is always referred to as cuppal, the synagogue is called 'synagogue' (whereas in the Ashkenazic community the synagogue is called a 'shul'). Gender division Men and women sit separately in synagogue. The more orthodox women and men act as modern orthodox Ashkenazim and keep separate so that same gender officers would be necessary in order to enter the gender-separate areas of the synagogue.
Places of worship On this page: Synagogue Known as 'shul' (Yiddish) by Ashkenazim and 'synagogue' by Sephardim. The different levels of orthodoxy denote the dress, seating arrangement of men and women and other customs inside the synagogue. When entering a synagogue, it will be possible for you to identify the level of orthodoxy from the following information: In all synagogues men cover their heads and wear either hats or skullcaps known as a cuppal, kippah or yarmulka. In some less orthodox synagogues, e.g. reform or liberal, women may wear skullcaps. At one end of the prayer hall of the synagogue, there is an ark which houses the holy scroll known as the Torah (Five Books of Moses). Near the centre of the hall is a bimer, a platform on which the Rabbi, stands and reads from the holy books. There will also be a Chazan (cantor) who leads the community in prayer and hymn singing. Traditional orthodox synagogue (eg United Synagogue) Seating In a traditionally orthodox synagogue, men and women sit in separate areas. Depending on the level of orthodoxy, men and women may be completely separate, divided by some form of screen so that they are unable to see one another, but it is more usual for men to occupy the lower floor of the building where the service takes place, while women sit in a first floor gallery overlooking the service below. Quorum The service can only begin if a quorum of 10 adult males (over the age of 13) is present. Women cannot be counted in the quorum. Any choral singing will be male only and the playing of musical instruments is forbidden on the Sabbath and most festivals. Dress Men and married women will cover their heads in synagogue. Men wear either hats or skullcaps. Women wear hats, scarves or, if particularly orthodox, they wear wigs, sometimes covered by scarves or snoods. They dress modestly, covering their bodies up to the neck, and down to the wrists and ankles. Men wear fringed prayer shawls (called a tallit) and on weekdays, during morning prayers, they wear phylacteries (tefillin), which are small black leather boxes containing religious text that are attached to the forehead and arm with black leather straps. Prayer is conducted in Biblical Hebrew.
Reform and Liberal Judaism A growing number of synagogues are now operated along the lines of more modern forms of Judaism. Men and women sit together and women participate in services, sometimes with equal status. In some synagogues, women rabbis are permitted and women may wear skullcaps. Again it depends on the level of orthodoxy as to the modification of customs including the level of women's participation. In many of these synagogues there are mixed gender choirs and musical instruments are permitted to be played on Sabbath and Festivals. Prayer is often conducted in English with some Hebrew. Liberal Judaism is more reformed than Reform Judaism.
Shtibl (mainly in Golders Green, Stamford Hill) The Shtibl (meaning 'small house', plural: shtiblekh) is found in the highly orthodox Chassidic communities such as Golders Green and Stamford Hill. They are small prayer houses for particular sects of Chassidic Jews. They are also used for study. Men and women are completely separate during services, the women sometimes sitting in a separate room adjoining the service. Services are conducted in Hebrew, but the learning is often in Yiddish, the language that has virtually died out except for its use as an everyday language by the Chassidic community around the world.
Holy texts
Bible (Old Testament), known as the Tenakh For Jews, the Bible consists only of the Old Testament. The Torah is in scroll form, written on parchment, wound around two handles and clothed in a decorative fabric cover, often decorated with silver and kept in a two-doored ark in the synagogue. It is only removed from the ark at certain times during the synagogue services so that a portion of its text may be read. It is handled with great respect. A silver pointer is used to follow the text so that the parchment is not touched by hand. In more traditional synagogues, the Torah may be read only by men over the age of 13.
Prayer On this page: Daily prayer Services are held morning, afternoon and evening. Men are obliged to pray as a community 3 times a day. A quorum of 10 men must be present for prayers to take place. Women have no obligation to pray at these services and cannot form part of the quorum. However, although they are not prohibited from taking part, women rarely attend daily synagogue prayers.
Sabbath Sabbath, known by Jews as Shabbat (Hebrew) or Shabbes (Yiddish), occurs each week from dusk on Friday until an hour after dusk on Saturday. During the winter months, orthodox Jews will need to leave work early on a Friday afternoon to be home in time for the onset of Sabbath. An important part of the Saturday morning Sabbath service is the reading from the Torah (first 5 books of the Bible) and the Prophets, which is sung by either a cantor or a member of the congregation, who will be male in an orthodox synagogue) . In addition, at Monday and Thursday morning services, part of the upcoming Sabbath's Torah portion (about 10 to 15 verses) is similarly sung. The Torah readings are performed with great ceremony. The Torah is paraded around the room before it is brought to rest on the bimah (podium). It is considered to be an honour (known as an aliyah) for a congregant to be invited to recite a blessing over the reading. In any service where there is a Torah reading there is usually a Torah procession. A congregant holds the Torah and carries it around the synagogue. As the Torah passes congregants, they touch the cover with their hand (or sometimes with a prayer book, or with the fringes of their prayer shawl (tallit) and then kiss their hand or whatever they touched it with. In Orthodox synagogues, where the Torah procession does not include the women's section, women sometimes reach out in the direction of the Torah, then kiss their hands. After a Torah reading, the Torah is held up in the air by its two handles with its words facing the congregation.
Main festivals On this page: In summary The Jewish year runs from Autumn to Autumn. The Jewish calendar is different from the western (Gregorian) calendar, so the dates of the festivals change from year to year in England. Sabbath and festivals in the Jewish calendar begin at dusk and continue until an hour after dusk on the following day. The most holy day in the Jewish calendar, apart from the Day of Atonement (Yom Kippor), is Shabbat (Sabbath), because it occurs most frequently. Jewish sabbath and festivals
Sabbath (Shabbat). Synagogue services are held on Friday night and three times on Saturday. In orthodox homes, candles (a minimum of two) are lit by an adult female, usually the mother of the family just prior to the Sabbath. After synagogue attendance, often only by the men of the family, the family gather at home for a Sabbath meal preceded by Kiddush (a blessing over wine and bread) which is said by a male, usually the father of the family. Festivals occur throughout the year. Autumn Rosh Hashanah (New Year), Yom Kippor (Day of Atonement) and Sukkot (Tabernacles) are known as the High Holy Days and take place some time in September or October. Rosh Hashanah Rosh Hashanah is a two-day festival commemorating the new year. Most Jews will take these two days off work. Synagogues are attended on both days by men, women and children. One of the synagogue rituals for these days is the blowing of a ram's horn (known as the shofar) like a musical instrument at various points in the service. Apple and honey are eaten at home in the hope of a sweet year ahead. This festival begins a ten-day period of penitence which ends with Yom Kippor.
Yom Kippor Yom Kippor is the most solemn day of the Jewish calendar. It is a day of deep repentance when each individual must set the record straight with God and with the people in their lives for any disagreements or misdemeanours that have occurred over the past year. It is believed that on this day God decides who will live and die during the coming year. After the 10 days of repentance, a decision is made by God. Jews are required to abandon all worldly thoughts and possessions for the day. They wear only the simplest clothing, avoiding animal skin including leather shoes which are considered a luxury. Women refrain from wearing make-up and jewellery. Females from the age of 12, and males from 13 go without food or drink for 25 hours. Synagogues are particularly crowded on this day as Jews who do not attend synagogue on any other occasion usually attend on Yom Kippor. Most Jews will take this day off work, if no other. Visiting a synagogue or jewish home on Yom Kippor Whenever possible, interruption of the Yom Kippor synagogue service would be better postponed until the next day as would a visit to a Jewish home. However, if a visit is unavoidable, there should be an appreciation of the solemnity of the day. Avoid the use of radio or telephone equipment and try to avoid parking vehicles directly outside the building to be entered. Sukkot Sukkot takes place five days after Yom Kippor and is a festival of rejoicing. Religious Jews build temporary huts on to their houses in which they eat, and some sleep, for seven days. This is to commemorate the temporary shelters that the Jews hurriedly built when they were wandering for 40 years in the dessert after escaping from Egypt. Sukkot is also a harvest festival. Orthodox Jews can be seen carrying a long swathe of palm leaves (lulaf) and a large lemon-like fruit (etrog) to synagogue as part of the harvest ritual. Winter Chanukah Chanukah occurs in December. Candles are lit in an eight-branch candelabrum (menorah) for eight nights, starting with one candle and increasing by one each night. Large electric candelabra can be seen in the streets of Golders Green and Stamford Hill during this festival and are displayed at the same time as Christmas lights if the two festivals coincide. Spring Yom Hashoah Yom Hashoah (Holocaust Memorial Day) is a day that has been established to commemorate the lives of the millions of Jews who perished in the Holocaust. It usually falls in April. Purim Purim takes place about four weeks before Easter and commemorates the saving of the Jewish Race by Queen Esther in ancient Persia. Jews dress up in fancy dress and dance, drink and celebrate. Passover Passover, an eight-day festival known as Pesach in Hebrew, is held at Easter time. During this festival Jews eat matzo (a dry water cracker) instead of bread to commemorate the hurried exodus from Egypt which left no time for their bread to rise. Families get together in one another's homes on the first two nights and hold a service around the dining room table which recounts the exodus, at which a symbolic meal is eaten. Summer Shevuot Shevuot (Festival of Weeks) celebrates the giving of the Torah and Ten Commandments to the Jews on Mount Sinai. It usually takes place in mid-August. Dairy foods such as cheesecake are eaten.
Diet Kosher / Treyf Orthodox Jews strictly follow Jewish dietary laws known as kashrut. Foods are either kosher (permitted) or treyf (forbidden). The following are kosher as long as they are killed and prepared according to Jewish law: Pig and seafood do not conform with these rules and are therefore forbidden (treyf). Milk and meat products cannot be eaten together and separate utensils must be used for each. Orthodox Jewish kitchens will have two sets of everything, including sink, dishwasher, crockery, cutlery, surfaces, cupboards, etc, one set used for meat and one for dairy products. Before milk products can be eaten after meat, three hours must pass. Meat may be eaten after milk when one hour has passed. Plates and other articles that have come into contact with treyf food cannot be used for kosher food so that anyone who is strictly observant of these laws cannot eat anywhere that is not under strict kosher supervision. These laws are observed to varying degrees by the non-orthodox Jewish community. Many ignore them completely, others might eat any food except for pork and bacon, while others again might observe kashrut at home but not out of the home. Therefore, when dealing with a Jewish person in custody, the needs of the individual should be considered. Ask what each person requires and proceed accordingly
Dress On this page: Most Jews wear the modern dress of the country in which they live. However, the highly orthodox Chassidim are an exception. Modern orthodox men will usually have their heads covered either with a skull cap or hat both indoors and out.
Chassidic Dress Chassidim are divided into many different sects or courts, and each Chassidic court has its own code of dress and general presentation. The idea of modesty is integral to the belief system and one is never to stand out. But in reality, although this is the intention, Chassidim do stand out and are instantly recognizable. Within the community it is obvious which sect is which by the sometimes very minor differences in dress. Chassidic men Chassidic men dress in black and white and wear black hats, sometimes decorated with fur, and black coats, sometimes made of satin. Some wear long thick white socks under long black coats. Clothes must be gender specific. Men's hair is shaved because it is more comfortable under the hats. Beards are also essential.
Chassidic women Like Chassidic men, women dress according to the rules of their sect. Their motivation is also modesty and not drawing attention to themselves by standing out. They cover their bodies from neck, to wrist, to below the knee. Females must wear dresses or skirts, not trousers because neither gender may wear the clothing of the other and trousers are seen as male apparel. Hair must be covered, so either headscarves, snoods or wigs are worn. Some women wear a wig covered by a headscarf.
Language On this page: Most Jews will speak the language of the country, while many know Hebrew for purposes of prayers and use certain words and phrases to refer to religious events and customs. Chassidism & Language. Many Chassidim speak Yiddish as their everyday language in preference (a) to English, which is not a Jewish language, and (b) to Hebrew, which as the language of the Bible and prayer book, they view as too sacred for everyday use. Yiddish, like every Jewish language, is written in the Hebrew alphabet. It was the everyday language of millions of Jews across Europe for a thousand years, with a rich literature, but has died out mainly since the end of the second world war. It flourishes now only in the Chassidic community and is used in many Chassidic schools.
Glossary (terms in brackets are said by older or Chassidic Jews) Greetings Hello/Goodbye Shalom
Good Sabbath (Sabbath greeting) Shabbat shalom (Gut Shabes)
Happy festival (Greeting on festivals) Hag sameyach (Gut Yontef)
Useful words Synagogue Shul
Skullcap (worn by men) Kippah, Yarmulka (Cuppal)
Male prayer shawl Tallit (Tallis)
Small oblong ornament filled with text on doorways of Jewish buildings Mezuzah
Daily standard prayer book requested by someone in custody) Siddor (sidder)
Permitted (usually refers to food Kosher
Not permitted (usually refers to food) Treyf
Prayer for the dead Kaddish
Mourning after death Shiva
Circumcision Brit (bris)
Life cycle On this page: Male Circumcision (Brit Meelah) Male circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin. A Jewish boy is usually circumcised at eight days old unless there are medical reasons to postpone or prevent it. The circumcision is performed following the instructions that God is said to have given to Abraham around 4,000 years ago. Today, the circumcision is performed at a ceremony witnessed by family and community at which the boy is given a Hebrew name. It is performed today by a mohel who is usually an orthodox Jew who has been medically trained to perform the ritual circumcision. The mohel is required to have studied the religious laws and have the surgical skills essential to the operation. In the UK, the Initiation Society of Great Britain and the London Beth Din (Jewish Ecclesiastical Court) oversee the training and examination of student mohels. Bar Mitzvah and Bat Mitzvah The traditional Bar Mitzvah (literally "son of the commandment") is a boy's coming of age at 13. An equivalent has been devised for girls of 12, known as a Bat Mitzvah ('bat' meaning "daughter"). Boys read a portion from the Torah scroll in synagogue, usually as part of the Sabbath service and a party is held, often on the next day, Sunday. However, there is no law to dictate any more than that a boy automatically takes on his religious obligations from the age of 13. Marriage A Jewish wedding ceremony is conducted under a canopy (known as a chupah - ch is pronounced as in Scottish loch, the 'u' as in put) supported by four poles. At a more orthodox wedding the bride will circle the groom seven times which parallels the seven days of creation and the new world that the bride and groom are making together. The marriage contract is called a ketubah. This is signed in addition to the civil marriage certificate and signifies the religious marriage. During the ceremony the groom breaks a glass underfoot, symbolizing the fragility of life and happiness, and those assembled shout mazel tov (the Hebrew for 'good luck'). Religious Jews celebrate the marriage for a further seven nights when parties are held at the homes of various friends and family members. These parties are called sheva brochas (seven blessings). Death Jews are buried as soon as possible after death has occurred, and usually within 24 hours. Though if death occurs after sunset on Friday, the burial is postponed until Sunday. Funerals cannot take place on the Sabbath or on holy days. The body is prepared for burial by the chevra kedusha, a group of people from the synagogue who have been trained in Jewish burial rituals and laws. The body is dressed in a white shroud (kittel) and placed in a plain wooden coffin. Men are buried with a prayer shawl (tallit) with its tassels cut off. The deceased must not be left unattended between the time of death and the burial. During the funeral the kaddish prayer is said by one of the male mourners. Cremation is not permitted, and religious and traditional Jews are buried in a Jewish cemetery. However, many Jews today, particularly liberal progressive Jews, choose to be cremated. Suicides are not permitted burial in the main body of the cemetery. Most London Jews are buried at cemeteries in Bushey, Hertfordshire and Rainham and Waltham Abbey in Essex. Mourning Seven days of intensive mourning (shiva) take place following the funeral. The direct mourners are those who have lost a parent, spouse, sibling or child. They usually 'sit shiva' together, often staying in the same house which becomes known as the shiva house, where a memorial candle burns for the entire week and the mourners sit on low stools. All mirrors are covered. A tear or cut is made in a garment of each official mourner which is then worn for the entire week. The house of mourning is visited by friends and family during the week in order to comfort the mourners. The visitors' traditional greeting to the mourners is the phrase: "I wish you long life". Prayers are said each day at the house rather than at the synagogue as these prayers necessitate the presence of a minyen, a quorum of ten Jewish men. Male mourners do not shave, females do not wear make-up or perfume, neither cut their nails and refrain from marital relations. In orthodox Jewish homes, mourners will not listen to music or watch television, and this restraint will often continue until a stone is set on the grave twelve months later. The ritual prescribed for women ends with this seven-day period. Men however, are forbidden to cut their hair or shave for thirty days. Sons of the deceased, or other male mourners, go to the Synagogue every day for eleven months to say the Kaddish. A gravestone is then erected, symbolising the end of the official period of mourning. Every year on the anniversary of the death (yartsayt - the 'ay' is pronounced as in kite), the family say Kaddish and burn a candle for twenty-four hours. The grave is visited at least once a year, usually just prior to the Jewish New Year, though more regular visits are not customary.
Ethics On this page: Abortion Abortion is not forbidden by Judaism. The mother's life is considered to be more important than that of the unborn child, though abnormalities in the child may also be taken into account mainly from the perspective of how they will affect the mother's health. Each case is considered in consultation with a rabbi who is able to advise on the ethical implications. Abortions during the first forty days of pregnancy are considered to be ethically preferable. However, non-orthodox Jews, will be less likely to consider religious prohibitions if they consider them at al Birth control Hormonal forms of birth control, such as the pill, patches, injections and implants, are acceptable. However, contraceptive methods such as coitus interruptus, condoms and vasectomy are forbidden by most orthodox rabbinic authorities because Jewish law prohibits men from destroying or wasting seed. The use of condoms, however, may be acceptable if it is protecting against the spread of incurable sexually transmitted diseases. The great majority of Jews today tend to use their preferred method of birth control. Organ donation Judaism supports organ donation.
Jews in custody On this page: The needs of each individual should be the priority. Always ask the person in custody what he or she requires, e.g. if there are any specific prayer needs at a particular time of the day, if men or women require their own gender to approach them, etc. Fulfil all reasonable requests. Orthodox Jewish prisoners may seek spiritual support and/or Kosher food provision whilst in custody. This can be provided 24/7 and free of charge by contacting Rabbi Malcolm Venitt of the Society for the Welfare of Jewish Prisoners. Mobile Telephone:07956 548 384. Rabbi Venitt is also an MPS registered interpreter for Yiddish/Hebrew and as such carries official MPS identification. Diet As with all faiths, there are varying degrees of observance in Judaism that range from highly orthodox to completely non-observant. Therefore, it is important from first contact that the individual's needs are ascertained by asking what is required. There may be no special needs or there may be many. Police officers will face difficulties in meeting the dietary needs of orthodox Jews. Few Jews will eat pork, bacon or lard. Many will happily eat vegetarian food but some will not. Disposable cups, plates and cutlery that are used in custody suites are ideal for those who will not use plates, etc that have been in contact with treyf (select Diet from left-hand menu for further information). Sealed kosher prepared meals and sandwiches can be obtained from kosher shops in areas such as Hendon, Golders Green, Stamford Hill and kosher sections of supermarkets, but there are varying degrees of acceptance even of some kosher foods depending on the level of orthodoxy. Pre-packed and sealed airport-style meals in single portions can be obtained from:
Hermolis & Co Ltd These would be acceptable to most orthodox Jews. Heat and serve food in its sealed container. If Kosher food is stored in a refrigerator it should be completely sealed in its original container and stored separately, preferably on a separate shelf that is covered in foil. Unused paper plates and cups and plastic cutlery may be used, but not regular crockery or cutlery that has been used for non-Kosher food and then washed. Once Kosher food comes into direct contact with food that is not Kosher then it immediately becomes Treyf and therefore cannot be eaten by an orthodox Jew. Inform the person in custody how you intend to store the food in order to reassure them and ask if this is acceptable to them. Prayer Prayer facilities in custody suites At present there is no centralised process within the MPS, though this is being discussed. Ask what facilities can be provided. Ask if any particular prayer book is needed. If one is requested and there are none in the custody suite, a copy might be borrowed from a local synagogue.
Refusing permission for a person to pray immediately after they have been arrested The DPS received a complaint from a Muslim prisoner that he had not been allowed to pray when he had been arrested at his home. For any faith, if a request is made immediately after arrest for permission to pray, officers may tell the person arrested that they have the opportunity to pray once they are at the station. Dress Orthodox Jewish men will wish to keep their heads covered at all times either with a skullcap or hat. Therefore, a request to remove the hat would be regarded by them as breaking a religious tenet. If absolutely necessary, for example in order to search the person, the removal of a hat should be treated with utmost sensitivity, first asking permission of the person, and replacing the hat as soon as possible. For Chassidic and highly orthodox Jews, same-gender officers should be used for all contact. Again, ask the person in custody what is acceptable to them.
Hate crimes On this page: Anti-semitism Last year (2006) the number of anti-Semitic attacks in England rose alarmingly by over 40% - the steepest rise in Europe - to its highest level ever. The Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) defines hate crime as "a crime where the perpetrator's prejudice against any identifiable group of people is a factor in determining who is victimised". If anyone is being harassed, bullied or verbally abused because they are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, they should report it. To support and advise those who wish to report hate crime Click here for details on how to help victims of Hate Crime to report the crime. Click here to find the Met's Hate Crime Policy document. For further reference: "Hate Crimes against London's Jews: an analysis of incidents recorded by the Metropolitan Police Service 2001-2004" published by JPR (Institute for Jewish Policy Research). This publication is conveniently divided into short sections on the internet and is very easy to use. Click on the link above.
Entering premises On this page: Entering places of Jewish worship VISITING A SYNAGOGUE OR JEWISH HOME ON YOM KIPPOR Whenever possible, interruption of the Yom Kippor synagogue service would be better postponed until the next day as would a visit to a Jewish home. However, if a visit is unavoidable, there should be an appreciation of the solemnity of the day. Avoid the use of radio or telephone equipment and try to avoid parking vehicles directly outside the building to be entered.
Paganism Paganism is a faith of individuals and many diverse groups, so any general rules are open to many variations. We welcome any comments or suggestions for additions or amendments from any Pagans or others with knowledge of Paganism in any of its forms so that the site will give the truest representation of this faith. If you wish to contact us about this section please select the "Contact Us" option on the right of the page. Please select the topic you require from the left-hand menu and contacts and links from the right of the page. If you wish to contact us about this section please select the "Contact Us" option on the right of the page. Acknowledgements This site has been prepared with the generous support and advice from the Pagan Federation, to all of whom we give our grateful thanks.
Overview Different pagan views of gods and goddesses Some Pagans regard their goddesses and gods as separate individual entities. Others (such as followers since ancient times of Isis and Osiris, and the more recent Wiccan-based Pagans) see all the goddesses as combined in one Great Goddess, and all the gods as combined in one Great God, whose harmonious interaction is the secret of the universe. Yet others think there is a supreme divine principle which is the Great Goddess Mother of All Things (as Isis was to the first century CE novelist Apuleius) as the Great Goddess is to many Western Pagans nowadays). The Roman Emperor Julian, the great restorer of Paganism in Christian antiquity, believed in an abstract Supreme Principle, the origin and source of all things, as do many Hindu mystics nowadays. Pagans who worship the One are described as henotheists (believers in a supreme divine principle) rather than monotheists, who believe in one true God beside which all other deities are false. The Goddess All Pagans recognise the feminine face of divinity. A religion without goddesses could not be classified as Pagan. Some Pagan paths, such as the cult of Odin or of Mithras, might offer exclusive allegiance to one male god, but they do not deny the reality of other gods and goddesses. Other objects of worship The many branches of Pagan religion often trace their roots back to ancient ancestral deities: Definition of the word 'Cult' The word 'cult' is used in its early meaning of the specialised veneration of one particular deity or pantheon (god or group of gods), and has only recently been extended to mean the worship of a god-like or semi-divine human leader). The practise of magic Magic, the deliberate production of results in this world by Otherworld means, is generally accepted as a feasible activity in Pagan societies, since the two worlds are thought to be in constant communication. An effect of the veneration of Nature, which views Nature as a manifestation of the divine rather than as haphazard and wild, is that divination and magic are accepted parts of life. Augury Augury or divination by interpreting the flight of birds, was widespread in the ancient world and is in modern Pagan societies, as is EXTISPICY, divination by reading the entrails of the sacrificed animal, itself a larger scale version of divination by reading the tea-leaves left in a teacup. Diviners may also actively ask the universe to send a sign, e.g., by casting stones to read the geomantic patterns into which they fall, by casting runes or the yarrow stalks of the I Ching. Pagans usually believe that the divine world will answer a genuine request for information. Trance, seership and mediumship are also used to communicate with the Otherworld. Specialist magical qualities such as horse-whisperering and healing are in common usage throughout Pagan societies. But often the practice of magic for unfair personal gain or for harm to another is forbidden. Modern Paganism Paganism today offers: These features have been embraced by many in modern western society as an alternative to the prevailing major religions, especially as increasingly it is becomes known that Paganism is such an integral part of ancestral heritage. Witches Witches have 3 key beliefs Witches have many Gods with different roles. History of witches Modern Historical developments - The Wicca Movement Gerald Brosseau Gardner (1884-1964) is arguably the most influential figure in the Wicca movement of the twentieth century. He was an English civil servant, amateur anthropologist, writer, and occultist who published some of the definitive texts for modern Wicca, which he was instrumental in founding. After the Witchcraft Act 1735 was finally repealed in England and Wales via the Fraudulent Mediums Act of 1951, Gardner was the first major figure in the 'Craft' to "come out" and declare that he was a Witch. He worked to disseminate information about the Craft, both as an author, and as the Curator of a museum to Magic and Witchcraft. Moreover, as a practising Witch he initiated leading lights of the Wicca movement such as Doreen Valiente, and is credited as making accessible many of Wicca's rituals, texts and beliefs. Gardner claimed that he was publicising for the first time many things that hitherto had been kept secret. He did this guardedly, for he claimed he was being careful to protect the privacy of pre-existing Witches, from whom he had received the material that he was now making public. This mixture of secrecy and openness has had a curious effect on commentators on the Craft: it has generated something of a romance about what they purport to be the true origins of Wicca. Gardner was also a Naturist, and met people interested in alternative or Pagan spirituality through Naturist clubs to which he belonged. Crucially, one of his many friends was the pioneering founder of what was possibly the first open air museum in Britain. This heavily influenced Gardner, and was what probably inspired him to help set-up, and eventually take-over, the Museum of Magic and Witchcraft on the Isle of Man. Books by him and about his work include: Gardner, G B: High Magic’s Aid, 1949, Michael Houghton Gardner, G B: Witchcraft Today, 1954, Rider. Heselton, Philip: Gerald Gardner and the Cauldron of Inspiration, 2003, Capall Bann. Hughes, Pennethorne: Witchcraft, 1952 King, Francis: Ritual Magic In England, 1970, Spearman. Mathers, S L Macgregor (ed): The Key of Solomon. http://www.hermetic.com/browe-archive/classics.htm
Pagans in London The Pagan Federation The Pagan Federation is an international organisation which is run almost entirely by volunteers. It was founded in 1971 to provide information and to counter misconception about Paganism. It helps and supports members of the Pagan community and campaigns on issues which affect Paganism. It has an active London branch. Much of the work of the Pagan Federation goes on 'behind the scenes', away from the public eye. This work includes initiatives such as liaising with government departments and other spiritual organisations to gain recognition for, and acceptance of Paganism as a valid spiritual path, or working with and for Pagans requiring ministry and support whilst in hospital or prison... The management team for Community Services currently consists of the following: The London District is divided into 5 regions. The District Manager can be contacted by email at [email address] Pagan Celebrations The Pagan Federation in London put on open Pagan celebrations eight times a year to mark the seasonal festivals for the past ten years. These are held on a weekday evening (usually a Thursday) at the Conway Hall, Red Lion Square, in Central London. 7.30 for 8.00pm start. These events are open to both Pagans and non-Pagans and are suitable for children who are accompanied by an adult. There are also other annual events such as a London District conference, a Masked Ball and a Summer Picnic-in-the-Park. Details on www.pflondon.org For further information on the London branch click on the following link: http://www.pflondon.org
Subdivisions On this page: This is not an exhaustive list, but it provides an overview of modern Paganism. Some branches of Paganism Many Pagans simply call themselves Pagans, while others may define themselves as followers of a particular Pagan tradition: Wiccan, Witch Druid, Odinist, Shaman, Goddess-Worshipper, etc. Some may call themselves Pantheists. There is no organised hierarchy, and the Pagan movement is made up of individuals and small autonomous groups linked by common traditions and beliefs. Druidry
In the words of a Druid: The Druid tradition dates back before Christian times to the Neolithic era (beg. around 9500 BCE). Its ways were kept alive in the hidden messages in the old myths and stories of the land and within the folklore of the countryside. Newer paths were created by the revivalists and antiquarians of the 1700s. These are linked to Masonic Druids. And then there was the more recent development of Druid Orders that grew out of the 1960s. Over the past 15 years, there has been an energetic revival of the Druid tradition that continues to grow to this day. Rites vary from Order to Order and from Druid to Druid, but they have in common an honouring of the ancestors and the elements. They meet in a circle because there is no distinct hierarchy. Druids fall into three sub-groups, although this might be seen as a simplistic analysis: All strive to live as part of nature. Many believe in reincarnation or the ability of the soul or spirit to continue after death in one form or another and many believe in the spirit of others, be it animal, vegetable or (in the case of location) even mineral. Heathenry Heathenry is a term used to describe the religious practices of two main groups of people, one historic and one modern. The original Heathens were pre-Christian, Northern-European peoples who lived a thousand or more years ago in the lands around what is now called the North Sea. These included the peoples of Anglo-Saxon England, Scandinavia and the German lands. Modern Heathen groups around the world are reviving the old practices and call their religion by various names including Asatru, The Northern Tradition, Odinism, Forn Sed, Germanic Pagan Reconstruction, or simply, Heathenry. In Iceland, which did not convert to Christianity until the 11th century, Heathenry has again become an official, ie nationally recognised, religion. Heathenry, like all ancient European Pagan religions is polytheistic and recognises a large number of gods and other spiritual entities. The following is a short list of the better known gods and goddesses: Some of the best known Heathen gods can be found in the names of the English days of the week: In addition to gods, Heathens recognise and relate to a wide variety of spiritual beings or `wights'. Another characteristic of Heathen religion is the respect given to ancestors. Structure There are no central authorities in Heathenry and no single organisation to which all Heathens belong, though there are national and international organisations created to facilitate networking between Heathens. There is no widely recognised priesthoosk, although sometimes individuals may be recognised as godhis and gydhjas (priests and priestesses) within their own communities. Many Heathens belong to small groups made up of Heathen friends and family members. These groups are sometimes called “hearths” or “kindreds”. They meet for religious rituals in the homes or members or outdoors. Some hearths and kindreds have recognised leaders. Others are wholly egalitarian. Rites and celebrations The main rites celebrated in Heathenry are called blot (pronounced `bloat') and symbel (pronounced `sumble'). Heathen groups and individuals hold feats and celebrations based around blot and symbel at rites of passage such as weddings or baby-namings, seasonal holidays, oath takings, rites in honour of a particular god or gods and rites of need (in which gods are asked for help). Heathen Festivals There is no fixed calendar of Heathen festivals. The three Heathen festivals most commonly celebrated in the UK are Winter Nights (usually celebrated in Octover or November), Yule (a twelve-day festival that begins around the time of the winter solstice) and a festival for the Anglo-Saxon goddess Eostre in the spring. Different Heathen communities and individuals celebrate different cycles of seasonal holidays based on their cultural affiliations, local traditions and relationships with particular gods. Magic and Seership Magic and seership were practiced by some individuals within ancient Heathen cultures and this is also the case today. Although magic was part of ancient Heathen culture, it did not play a part in the religious rituals of blot and symbel and is not therefore seen as an intrinsic part of the religion. Although Heathens share a belief in the ability of gods to enact change in the world, they do not all believe in the ability of magicians to do so. Wyrd and Ethics Wyrd is one of the central concepts in Heathenry. It is seen as the force that connects everything in the universe without space and time. In Old English, the word means `fate'. One of the ethical principals of Heathenry is that of taking responsibility for one's own actions, as it is believed that every action and choice taken or failed to be taken will have implications on the future. After death Heathenry does not place as great an emphasis on an afterlife as do some other religions. In the wider world, Valhalla, Odin's Hall, is seen as the Norse equipvalent of heaven. But this is a misconception. According to the mythology, as recorded in the Eddas, Valhall is only for warriors who die in battle. Shamanism
“Shamans are healers, seers and visionaries…..they are in communication with the world of gods and spirits. Their bodies can be left behind while they fly to unearthly realms. They are poets and singers. They dance and create works of art…they are familiar with cosmic as well as physical geography; the ways of plants, animals and elements are known to them. They are psychologists, enterntainers and food finders. Above all, however, shamans are technicicians of the sacred and masters of ecstasy”. Shamans have an essential belief in the reality of the spirit world. Even when they belong to groups, Shamans seek out their own individual vision in the mysteries of Nature and they do so in solitude. They might act as a medium between the spirit world and the human world, and may also guide others to experience the spirit world for themselves. They practice healing, divination and magic. Modern Shamanism is perhaps the most diverse of all the forms of Paganism and is less clearly defined as a tradition. Many who practice Shamaism would describe themselves as Wiccan or Druidic, or even Women’s Mystery Shamans. However, a growing number of men and women today see themselves travelling a specifically Shamanic path. Wicca The roots of Witchcraft are based in ancient times. The Wiccan form of Witchcraft began to emerge publicly in the late 1940s.
“Wicca is both a religion and a Craft. As a religion - like any other religion - its purpose is to put the individual and the group in harmony with the divine creative principal of the Cosmos, and its manifestation at all levels. As a Craft, it s purpose is to achieve practical ends by psychic means, for good, useful and healing purposes. In both aspects, the distinguishing characteristics of Wicca are its Nature-based attitude, its small group autonomy with no gulf between priesthood and `congregation', and its philosophy of creative polarity at all levels, from Goddeess and God to Priestess and Priest”. Wicca is described as an initiatory path, a mystery tradition that guides its initiates to a deep communion with the powers of nature and of the human psyche, leading to a spiritual transformation of the self. Women who follow this path are initiated as Priestesses and men are initiated as Priests. Those wishing to be initiated must be at least 18 years old. Initiation must be asked for and is only given to those who have “proved” themselves suitable. It is traditional to wait a year and a day before being accepted into Wicca, although this can vary. In Britain, there are two main branches of Wicca: Garnerian Wicca (claimin ancestory from Gerald Garnder, who was mostly responsible for the revival of the modern Craft) and Alexandrian Wicca (followers of Alex and Maxine Sanders). Wiccans celebrate eight seasonal festivals called Sabbats and meet at the full moon which is known as an Esbat. Wiccan rituals are often conducted out of doors and involve simple rites to celebrate the seasons and the gift of life. (See section Festivals). Although some Wiccans work alone, essentially the practice of Wicca is done in groups. These are known as Covens. The senior members of a Wiccan Coven are the High Priestess and High Priest. Rites and magical practices are carried out within a magic circle which is cast to create a sacred space in which to work. People are encouraged to think for themselves and be responsible for their own actions. At the heart of most Wiccan practice is the premise: “If it harms none, do as you will”. After death Wiccans believe that the spirit continues after death on its journey through may lives. Our grateful thanks to the Pagan Federation for the above information.
Places of worship The spirit of a place is recognised in Pagan religion, whether as a personified natural feature such as a mountain, lake or spring, or as a fully articulated 'guardian divinity' such as, for example, Athena, the goddess of Athens.Many Pagans see the Earth itself as sacred: in ancient Greece the Earth was always offered the first libation of wine, although She had no priesthood and no temple. Indoors and Outdoors There are no formal, assigned buildings for Pagan worship. Pagans usually worship either indoors in their own homes, friends' homes, hired public halls, or outdoors in woodland. The outdoors is preferred, but in this country for practical reasons, especially due to the weather, gatherings are generally held indoors. Pagans say that they have always found police officers to be tolerant of their outdoor gatherings.
Holy texts There is no formal, universal Pagan holy text.
Prayers & rites On this page: It is a fundamental need of the human condition that we express by way of sacred or secular ritual those moments which have greatest meaning and influence upon our lives. Like all religions, Paganism uses ritual in the celebration of its mysteries. Ritual is used to commune ever more deeply with the wisdom and love of the Old Gods and the Divine forces of Nature. Rituals take many forms in the different expressions of Pagan tradition and are the least understood aspect of the Pagan religion. Below are described three main expressions of ritual practice employed by Pagans. Celebrations of Nature Paganism sees the Divine as manifest in all Nature. For Pagans, the turning pattern of the seasons is a mirror in which to see reflections of the many changing faces of the Old Gods. Pagans celebrate seasonal festivals to commune with Nature's mysteries. By way of myth, poetry and ritual drama, Pagans enact simple rituals as acts of worship and joyful celebration. Magical rites Rituals used to create magic are a means of contacting the deeper powers of consciousness and wider spiritual powers that may assist in resolving life crises or in working acts of healing. All magical work is guided by a fundamental ethic that it should in no way be of harm to others. Rituals with a more magical intent will usually be held to coincide with particular phases of the Lunar cycle. Rites of passage Rites of passage form an important part of the ritual practice of the Pagan religion. There are rituals for marriage, for blessing new born children and requiem rites for those who have died. Rituals of initiation are another example of a rite of passage used by Pagans and often those who join a tradition will pass through such a ceremony. Not all Pagan traditions practice initiation, but those which do may also give further initiations to mark new stages in spiritual growth. These three strands of ritual practice are often woven together. For Pagans, all rituals are acts of magic and celebration; rites of passage leading to ever deeper communion with the mysteries of Nature and of the Divine. Each of the Pagan traditions uses particular symbolism and has its own preferred methods of working ritual. However, Pagans are highly creative and ritual forms are often changed to reflect personal needs and a deepening understanding of the natural world. Paganism is not dogmatic and sees ritual as a means to an end and not an end in itself.
Main festivals On this page: Festivals Wheel of the Year The cycle of the natural year, with its changes through the seasons, is seen by most Pagans as a model of spiritual growth and renewal, and as a sequence marked by festivals which offer access to divinities which are linked to different times of year. All Pagan traditions are founded upon a vision of Deity (Gods and Godesses) manifest in Nature. Drawing upon the traditions of Pagan ancestors, many Pagans celebrate this vision in seasonal festivals. Nature is the keystone of an understanding of the seasonal rites, which are times of joy and celebration and deep communion with the powers of natural forces. The turning pattern of the seasons is seen as a wheel. Each aspect of seasonal change is understood as a mystery of the Divine. As the wheel turns, so Nature reveals the many faces of the Gods. Pagans shape rituals to express what they see and feel in Nature. In doing so, they share in the mystery of the turning cycle and join more closely with the vision of their Gods. Paganism sees humanity and the seasons as part of a single whole. Paganism teaches that true well-being for ourselves and for the world in which we live can only be achieved by understanding our relationship with Nature. The rape of the Earth's resources, the devastation of the rain forests, the exploitation of the Earth's natural wealth - these to Pagans are acts of madness. In their seasonal rites, Pagans pass on a deep vision of human life as part of the natural cycle. Pagans take delight in their vision and reach out to embrace ever more deeply that whole of which they are a part. Just as Nature is both male and female, so the seasonal celebrations describe the dance between Goddess and God throughout the Wheel of the Year. Paganism celebrates what is natural. Birth, life and death are a pattern of which all are a part. Just as great empires rise and fall, just as Spring gives way to Summer, so men and women are born then die. So the wheel turns, a dance of light and dark and of God and Goddess throughout the wheel of the seasons. Pagans celebrate the cycles of sowing and reaping, the passage from Winter to Spring then to Summer and Autumn. Pagans learn to accept that there are times of growth, but also times of old age and death. In all things, there are wisdoms to be learned, not just in what is bright and new: there is also deep knowledge and vision in those things old and dark. The seasonal festivals are mysteries, yet they are so simple a child might understand. They are times when Pagans remember the cycle of life of which they are a part and touch a simple Pagan truth that humanity and the world are one - part of a whole bound in love. The Wheel of the Year is celebrated in a myriad of forms in the different Pagan traditions. Most Pagans celebrate eight seasonal festivals each year, but there are variations between traditions and between geographical regions with different climatic conditions. It is not possible to look at all these variations, but some idea of the underlying themes celebrated during seasonal rites can be described. If we look at the cycle of eight seasonal festivals as being the most typical, then four are marked by the equinoxes and solstices while four are Celtic festivals: Imbolc, Beltane, Lughnasadh and Samhain. The dates given are those for the Northern hemisphere. The following festivals take place on or about the given date each year. Samhain - 31st October (pronounced Sow-in) The Wheel of the Year is seen to begin at Samhain, which is also known as Hallowe'en or All Hallows Eve. This is the Celtic New Year, when the veil between the worlds of life and death stands open. Samhain is a festival of the dead, when Pagans remember those who have gone before and acknowledge the mystery of death. As Pagans we celebrate death as a part of life. Yule - 21st December (archaic form Geola, pronounced Yula) Yule is the time of the winter solstice, when the sun child is reborn, an image of the return of all new life born through the love of the Gods. The Norse had a God Ullr, and within the Northern Tradition Yule is regarded as the New Year.
Imbolc - 2nd February Imbolc, also called Oimelc and Candlemas, celebrates the awakening of the land and the growing power of the Sun. Often, the Goddess is venerated in her aspect as the Virgin of Light and her altar is decked with snowdrops, the heralds of spring. Spring Equinox - 21st March Now night and day stand equal. The Sun grows in power and the land begins to bloom. By Spring Equinox, the powers of the gathering year are equal to the darkness of winter and death. For many Pagans, the youthful God with his hunting call leads the way in dance and celebration. Others dedicate this time to Eostre the Anglo- Saxon Goddess of fertility. Beltane - 30th April The powers of light and new life now dance and move through all creation. The Wheel continues to turn. Spring gives way to Summer's first full bloom and Pagans celebrate Beltane with maypole dances, symbolizing the mystery of the Sacred Marriage of Goddess and God. Midsummer - 21st June At summer solstice is the festival of Midsummer, sometimes called Litha. The God in his light aspect is at the height of his power and is crowned Lord of Light. It is a time of plenty and celebration. Lughnasadh - 1st August (pronounced Loo-nassa) Lughnasadh, otherwise called Lammas, is the time of the corn harvest, when Pagans reap those things they have sown; when they celebrate the fruits of the mystery of Nature. At Lughnasadh, Pagans give thanks for the bounty of the Goddess as Queen of the Land. Autumn Equinox - 21 September Day and night stand hand in hand as equals. As the shadows lengthen, Pagans see the darker faces of the God and Goddess. For many Pagans, this rite honours old age and the approach of Winter Samhain - 31st October The Wheel turns and returns to Samhain, the festival of the dead, when we face the Gods in their most awesome forms. This is not a time of fear, but a time to understand more deeply that life and death are part of a sacred whole.
Diet Pagans have no religious dietary laws. However, many, though not all, witches are vegetarians.
Dress Pagans dress every day in the clothes of the country in which they live. There is no prescribed dress, but in gatherings Pagans tend to dress up in more exaggerated clothes than they would wear in day-to-day life. Some of the clothes display certain significant symbols, but these are left to the individual. For ritual ceremonies, each group or coven have their own code and often dress in a particular colour. Athame An athame (pronounced 'athamay'] can take many forms though it usually resembles a dagger. It frequently has a double-edged blade with a sharp point, and a handle which is often black. The handle may be inscribed with particular symbols dictated by the tradition[5]. Janet and Stewart Farrar in "A Witches Bible" suggest that the point of an athame be dulled so as to prevent un-intended physical harm during ritual use. However, any kind of knife or sword may be used, though anything bigger than a dagger would generally be regarded as ostentatious. In "eclectic" forms of witchcraft the handle decorations range from astrological glyphs to runes, the symbols being chosen by the owner. Many fantasy-themed athames are also available from medieval and neopagan supply shops. The athame's primary use is for ritual and magical purposes only, to direct energy and is thought of as extension of the finger to be used to cut air or a hand-festing cake. ; if things such as herbs or cords need to be cut, another knife called a boline - a white-handled knife - is used. An exception is the "kitchen witchcraft" philosophy, which actively encourages the use of magical tools for mundane purposes to increase the witch's familiarity with them. An athame must never be cleaned. An athame may be employed in the demarcation of the Magic circle rite. As a masculine principle, it is often used in combination with the chalice, as feminine principle, evoking the act of procreation, as a symbol of universal creativity. This is a symbol of the Great Rite in Wiccan rituals[6]. Some modern witchcraft traditions may prefer not to use iron blades, instead preferring alternatives such as copper, bronze or wood. This is most common amongst traditions that have a particular fondness of the Sidhe, to whom iron is supposedly harmful.
Wearing athames in the street During the Beltane Bash that celebrates the festival of Beltane (around the end of April), it has become a custom for some to wear athames in various sizes, sometimes sword size, on a belt, as a visible symbol of their Pagan faith and to wear them in the streets. These are not intended to be used as an offensive weapon but might be misinterpreted as such. Q: Is it legal to carry one? Guidance on Carrying Ceremonial Blades There has been a lot of discussion recently on the legality of carrying ceremonial blades. This includes athames, bolines, spears, sickles and axes for ritual purposes. Section 139 of the Criminal Justice Act 1988 created an offence of possession of a bladed or pointed article in a public place. 139(1) Subject to the defences listed below, any person who has an article to which this section applies with him in a public place shall be guilty of an offence. Defenses Also see http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts1997/1997021.htm for a copy of The Knives Act 1997. The PF advises that any blades or pointed instruments should be carried within baggage and not worn conspicuously en route to a celebration or ritual. A PF working party is busy compiling information/documentation about why Pagans carry blades and will send this to the Home Office.
Language Glossary Merry Meet Traditional greeting (ie hello)
Merry Part / and Merry Meet Again Traditional parting (ie goodbye)
The above two phrases are also used when writing to one another, and can be abbreviated to MM, ie MM Jane, etc Blessed Be Another traditional parting or end of a letter
Wickening Naming of a child
Handfasting Marriage, wedding
Life cycle There are no particular admission ceremonies or rituals that make people Pagan. People consider themselves to be Pagan if their beliefs match those of Pagan thought. Some Pagan denominations may have entry through a ceremony of dedication or initiation, but this is through choice and not essential. The rites of passage of a Pagan are different from other religions. Wickening or Naming Often takes place in the woods with people celebrating dressed in their best clothes to celebrate the naming of a child. Wickening can also be done to adults. Rites of Puberty This ceremony celebrates the onset of a girl's menstruation cycle. It is generally held indoors and only a small, closed group attends. Sometimes the girl is given an additional name. Marriage Death/Rites of withdrawal Usually held in the home. A celebration in which the deceased enters Summerlands to select what form their next life will take, ie reincarnation. Death and life are seen as an ending and a beginning, so death is celebrated in a wake. Cremations usually take place at a non-faith crematorium. www.paganfed.org
Ethics Pagans hold the view: "Do what thou will, and harm no one".
Entering premises Pagans usually meet in one another's homes, occasionally in hired halls, and also outdoors. For practical reasons, such as bad weather, indoor meetings are the most common. Is it legal to carry an athame?
Guidance on Carrying Ceremonial Blades The PF advises that any blades or pointed instruments should be carried within baggage and not worn conspicuously en route to a celebration or ritual.
Pagans in custody Wands and wine for imprisoned pagans
Richard Ford, Home Correspondent PAGAN priests will be allowed to use wine and wands during ceremonies in jails under instructions issued to every prison governor. Inmates practising paganism will be allowed a hoodless robe, incense and a piece of religious jewellery among their personal possessions. They will also be allowed to have Tarot cards but are forbidden from using them to tell the fortunes of other prisoners. The guidance, issued by Michael Spurr, the director of operations of the Prison Service, makes it clear that Skyclad (naked pagan worship) will not be permitted. Prison staff have been told that pagan artefacts should be treated with respect. The formal guidance on paganism in prison is contained in a 14-page annexe to a Prison Service order on religion in jails. It was issued last month to governors, chaplains and race relations officers. Under sections ranging from the use of wine, dress and hygiene to festivals, marriage and death, governors are given a complete guide to paganism, based on information supplied by the Pagan Federation. It is the latest faith guidance sent to governors to deal with an increasingly diverse prison population in England and Wales. Previous documents have included guidance on Buddhism, Sikhism and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Governors are told that the main pagan festivals are at the time of a full moon, and seasonal celebrations such as the spring and autumn equinox, midsummer and Samhain, on October 31, the Celtic new year. “Some Pagans like to celebrate Samhain with cider for the celebration of the apple harvest. In prison an apple can substitute for cider,” the guidance says. Prisoners will be allowed to practice paganism in their cells, including prayer, chanting and the reading of religious texts and rituals. The wearing of ritual jewellery must be risk-assessed by prison officers before the inmate is allowed to place it around the neck. The guidance adds: “Washing prior to ritual is considered very important in some traditions. Where possible, prisoners should be permitted to shower prior to group worship.” In addition to a hoodless robe, prisoners can keep a flexible twig as a wand, a chalice and rune stones. The guidance makes clear that the hoodless robe can be used only during worship, and not by prisoners while on the wings. The guidance highlights the part that wine plays in pagan rituals: “Some… will use water while other groups will use red wine. It is important that both variations be treated equally.” But wine must be ordered through the prison chaplaincy, stored securely and used only under supervision. “Individual consumption will be one sip only. As part of the ceremony, the pagan chaplain may also anoint the prisoners with wine on the forehead,” the instruction says. Prisoners will be permitted books of pagan writings, and the guidance specifies what staff should do in the event of a pagan marriage, to be performed by a pagan chaplain in addition to an office register ceremony, and a pagan death. It is not known how many pagan prisoners are in jails in England and Wales. Prison faiths
Anglican 26,055
Rastafarianism Please note This section of the Policing Diversity reference site will be available in the near future. Please check back for regularly updated information.
Sikhism Please select the topic you require from the left-hand menu and contacts and links from the right of the page. If you wish to contact us about this section please select the "Contact Us" option on the right of the page. Acknowledgements Man thanks to all those who have so generously helped in the preparation of this section, namely the Faith Strand, members of the Sikh community and the MEEM Consultancy. The help of the Sikh Police Association has been invaluable.
Overview On this page: History and belief system Sikhism is the youngest of the world's major religions, founded in the 15th Century in the State of Punjab. It has fifteen million followers worldwide, with the majority living in the State of Punjab (East) in India. The religious and political seat of authority is in the city of Amritsar in India, best known for its Harmindar Sahib, that is, the Golden Temple. In Britain there are about 800,000 Sikhs. Followers of Sikhism believe in one God who guides and protects them. They believe that everyone is equal before God. Sikhs aim to worship God, work honestly, share with the less fortunate and lead a truthful life. They consider that religious ceremony for its own sake has no meaning. Consequently they avoid pilgrimages and statues. Sikhism is based on the teachings of Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the teachings of the other nine gurus who were his successors. The tenth Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji declared that there would be no other living Gurus but instead the Holy Scriptures as the living Guru from where one would look for guidance. Sikh means 'learner' or 'disciple''. Any human being who faithfully believes in the following and does not owe allegiance to any other religion may be a Sikh:
The 'Five Ks' In order to become a Sikh and join the Khalsa ('Community of the Pure'), people need to follow the panj kakkar (Five Ks): Legality of carrying a sword (kirpan) The carrying of a kirpan is permitted under Section 139 Criminal Justice Act 1988 as a religious artefact.
Sikhs in London One of the first recorded Sikh settlers in the UK was the only surviving son of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Shere Punjab a former ruler of the Punjab Sikh Kingdom, that is, Maharajah Duleep Singh. As a child he was exiled to Britain in 1849 after the second Anglo-Sikh war. By 1902 a Sikh Gurdwara (or temple) was built in Shepherd's Bush. Many of London's Sikh settlers arrived from the Punjab region of Northwest India during the 1920s, 1950s and 60s. In the 1970s members of the faith from East Africa also arrived in East and West London. The 2001 census shows 31 per cent of the Sikh population of the UK living in London., especially concentrated in West London boroughs, making up almost 10 per cent of the populations of Ealing and Hounslow. Today Sikh people have a significant presence in numerous aspects of London life including politics, the police, education, law, fundraising, human rights campaigns and sports. The Sikh Secretariat is an organisation that works closely with regional and nation-wide Sikh organisations to lobby parliament and push for action on Sikh-related issues. There are also concerns over workers and travellers at major airports being discriminated against because of them wearing a kirpan (small sword).
Subdivisions Sikhism has no major subdivisions. There are some denominational groups, broadly based on the practices of specific named religious leaders (past and present) of 'monasteries' and religious schools of thought. However, they are not officially sanctioned. . Though breakaway branches of Sikhism do exist they are in the main backed by political groups to undermine the mainstream of Sikhism.
Places of worship On this page: Gurdwara Any building where the holy text of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is kept is regarded as a Sikh place of worship. It is called the Gurdwara ('Gateway to the Guru') and is marked out by a triangular orange flag (Nishan Sahib). The Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji is kept and read on a raised platform (takht - seat of throne) under a canopy in the Darbar Sahib room used for worship. The Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji will be beneath a canopy wherever it is kept, including the home. Worshippers cover their heads. They take off their shoes in the presence of the holy scriptures and never turn their back to the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. At every festival, the scriptures are read continuously from beginning to end, which takes about 48 hours in a ceremony known as Akhand Path. Women play an active and equal role in all Gurdwara worship. They may conduct any religious services, read from the Holy Book in public, sit in the same arena as men, and have an equal voice on all matters related to the running and functioning of the Gurdwara. Sikhs are renowned for their hospitality. Apart from being a place of worship and a house for the Guru Granth Sahib, the Gurdwara is also a guest house where passing travellers may find free food (langar) and shelter, available to all regardless of age, gender, faith, sexual orientation, caste, and nationality. At home Some Sikhs keep a room at home where the Holy Book is permanently installed and where they can go for meditation, prayer or to hold a religious gathering of friends and family. For guidance on entering a Gurdwara or Sikh home click on "Entering of Premises" on the menu to the left of the page.
Holy texts The collection of Sikh Holy Scriptures is called the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. This is a collection of teachings and writings by Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji and the other Gurus who succeeded him as well as Hindu and Muslim saints. These scriptures are written in Gurmukhi and are greatly respected by all Sikhs as the living Guru containing the word of God.
Prayer On this page: Daily Sikhs, especially the Amritdhari (baptised) Khalsa members, worship every day in the morning at sunrise and in the evening at sunset, and then before they retire to bed. Weekly Working families attend the Gurdwara whenever they can, and usually participate in the Sunday service of mediation. Communal Sikh services are generally held on a Sunday in this country. This is not for any religious reason, but simply because Sunday is the day that most people in Britain do not work. The services are based on the writings in the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, together with hymns compositions also taken from the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji known as Keertan. The service ends in a langar (shared meal).
Main festivals On this page: Holy days The main day for Sikhs to go to the Gurdwara for worship in Britain is Sunday. This is not for any religious reason, but because Sunday is the day most people in Britain do not work. Sikhs consider every day to be a Holy Day. Sikh festivals and the Sikh calendar The dates of Sikh festivals have been traditionally defined by using a Lunar calendar, with the result that in the past, the festivals did not fall on the same date in the Western calendar coincide each year. Recently a calendar, known as the Nanakshahi calendar, has been introduced to resolve this issue by aligning it with the Solar calendar so that Sikh festival dates are at the same time of year. However, there are differences of opinion within Sikhism and some organisations do not approve of the new calendar, with the result that there is some uncertainty about the dates on which festivals should be celebrated. Vaisakhi (Baisakhi)(13/14 April) The most important date in the Sikh calendar, is the commemoration of the birth of the Order of the Khalsa Panth. The Khalsa Panth was initiated by the Tenth Guru, Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, in 1699 when Sikhism established its protocols firmly from instruction from the tenth Sikh Guru, given strict edicts, moral codes and a uniform. Unlike other festivals, Vaisakhi occurs on the same date in the western calendar every year. Gurpurbs Gurpurbs are festivals that are associated with the lives of the Gurus. They are happy occasions which are usually celebrated at the Gurdwara with Akhand Path (the continuous cover to cover reading of Guru Granth Sahib). There is musical recitation of hymns known as kirtan as well as lectures on Sikhism known as katha. Some celebrations include a procession through the streets (nagar kirtan) with Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji carried on a throne accompanied by 5 Sikhs (the Panj Pyarae of the Khalsa Panth or the five beloved ones. They carry Sikh flags or standards (Nishan Sahibs) which are usually saffron yellow or deep royal blue in colour. The most important Gurpurbs are the 4 accepted by the historic Sikhs: End of October/early November: Bandi-shhor Diwas coincides with the Hindu festival of Diwali (see the section on Main Festivals in Hinduism accessed from the left hand menu). Sikhs commemorate the Sixth Guru Sri Hargobind Ji and the sacrificies he made in the name of humanity. It has also been the time when in the 18th Century the whole Sikh nation came together to celebrate Sikhism and plan religious activities for the coming months.
Diet Sikhs may eat meat, as long as the animal has not been inhumanely slaughtered. In general most baptised (Amritdhari) Sikhs are vegetarians and teetotal. Those Sikhs who do eat meat must do so from animals that have been killed quickly, humanely and without ritual ceremonies. Many avoid eating beef. Halal (see Islam section on Diet) and kosher (see Judaism section on Diet) meat is strictly forbidden. Also forbidden is tobacco inhalation.
Dress Sikh women dress modestly. Traditionally they wear loose trousers (shalwar), a long tunic (kameez) and a long scarf (chunni) to cover the head as a mark of respect and especially when in the Gurdwara. Sikh men will wear a turban as soon as they are old enough (usually from the age of 13 or 14). Generally, the colour of the turban has no particular significance and is a matter of personal choice. The turban is also part of the Sikh identity. Apart from the turban and the long shorts (kachhera), there is no restriction on the type of garment that can be worn. Men generally wear western clothes when in the public domain. At home they may wear loose-fitting cotton trousers with a long overshirt.
Language On this page: The spoken mother tongue of Sikhs is Punjabi with the Gurmukhi as the written script. Naming system Singh ('Lion'), a reminder to be courageous, is added to boys' names while Kaur ('Princess'), to stress dignity and nobility, is added to girls' middle names. The surname is the paternal family name although many choose not to use it in everyday life.
Glossary Useful words and terms Sat Sri Akal A Sikh greeting and war cry meaning: “God is immortal”
`Chunnni Long scarf worn by women to cover their head, especially in the Gurdwara
Gurdwara Sikh Temple
Guru Dispeller of Darkness; the True Enlightener of the Soul
Kangha Small wooden comb usually kept tucked into the hair by men and either over or under a plait by women. (One of the 5 Ks)
Kachhera Cotton shorts, like boxer or Bermuda shorts, worn at all times. (One of the 5 Ks)
Kameez long tunic worn by women
Karra Steel bangle. (One of the 5 Ks)
Kesh Uncut hair (one of the 5 Ks)
Kirpan the mini sword permitted to be carried under Section 139 Criminal Justice Act 1988 as a religious artefact and must be sheathed at all times (one of the 5 Ks)
Shalwar Loose trousers worn by women
Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji Sikh Holy text
Nishan Sahib The Sikh flag
Life cycle On this page: Sikh life cycle Birth When a baby is born a special prayer is read and a drop of holy water (Amrit) is placed on the baby's tongue. At a ceremony at the Gurdwara, the name of the baby is chosen by opening the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji at random: the name must begin with the first letter of the first word of the Hukamnama (proclamation of the day) on the left hand side of the page. Male Circumcision Ritual circumcision is not relevant to Sikhism. Sikhs do not circumcise children, whatsoever. Teenage initiation ceremony: wearing of turban (known as Dastaar Bandi). The boy is seated in front of the Guru Granth Sahib. An elder relation ties the turban on his head. The Granthi explains why he must keep long hair and wear a turban. Prayers are said to invoke Guru's blessing on the boy. This allows young Sikhs to join the Khalsa Panth at a later date, after which they must observe the Five Ks. A special solution of sugar and holy water (Amrit), is prepared in an iron bowl whilst the five Banis (special prayers) are recited by five Sikhs (Panj Pyarae) in the presence of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. During the ceremony the solution is blessed and sprinkled on the hair and eyes and a prayer is said. Marriage A brief summary of what is allowed and what is forbidden: Marriage is encouraged in the Sikh community. The marriage ceremony is called 'Anand Karaj', which means 'the ceremony of happiness'. The Gurus stress the importance of family life and marriage is seen as an important part of this. Some Sikh weddings are arranged (also known as 'facilitated marriages') though even when the couple has chosen a partner for themselves, the families will still be very involved. A marriage cannot take place unless both the bride and groom agree to it. While no age is specified. the bride and groom must be considered to be an adult and be willing to take on the responsibilities of family life. On the eve of the wedding, the bride's friends and female relatives may meet at the bride's house and have a party. They paint patterns on each others' hands and feet with a special henna dye, the effect of which lasts for several days. This is a Punjabi custom, and not essentially a Sikh practise. Sikh weddings usually take place in the morning. They must always take place in the presence of the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji held in the Gurdwara. Any Sikh competent of reciting the scriptures may perform the marriage ceremony. On the morning of the wedding, the bridegroom and his relatives are welcomed. There is then a formal introduction of relatives from both families. The bridegroom usually wears a red or pink turban and has a scarf around his neck. He sits at the front facing the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The bride's father puts a garland of flowers on the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. The bride enters, with a sister or other female relative. After bowing to the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, she sits on the left hand side of the bridegroom.. Readings from the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji are recited during which the couple and their parents stand and ask for God's blessing on the marriage. The person reading the service gives a talk to the couple about marriage and its meaning. The couple is asked if they understand and accept their responsibilities to each other as husband and wife. The bride's father then gives away the bride by handing one end of the groom's scarf to the bride to symbolize their being joined together as husband and wife. The bride holds the scarf for the rest of the ceremony. The reading of the Lavan, a hymn written for weddings by Guru Ramdas, is the most important part of the ceremony. It has four verses, each of which are spoken and then sung. Each verse refers to a particular aspect of marriage. As each verse is sung, the bride and the groom circle in a clockwise direction around the Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji. When they have done this for the fourth time, the marriage ceremony is complete. Everyone then stands to join in the Ardaas prayer, and there may be speeches before everyone shares the Parshad (a sweet meal). This may then be followed by a civil-law marriage ceremony performed by an official marriage officer. A meal follows, which may be held in the Langar Hall (dining room) of the Gurdwara. Divorce If a couple has problems in their marriage, both families will do their best to save the marriage, However, if this is not possible, divorce is allowed and either person may marry again in the Gurdwara. Death Sikhs believe in reincarnation and death is seen as just another stage in the life cycle of the soul. The body of a deceased is laid out in a room, and a light must remain switched on until the body is removed. Cremation Cremation is the norm. The family washes the body and dresses it in new clothes before it is taken for cremation. In the UK some families sprinkle the ashes into a river; others take the ashes back to India for a similar ceremony. Autopsies There are no prohibitions concerning autopsies in the Sikh faith. However, in the case of baptised Sikhs, the unshorn hair MUST NOT be separated from the body. It is preferable if all the other 4 K's can remain intact, ie.
Ethics On this page: Abortion Abortion is generally forbidden in Sikhism, as it interferes in the creative work of God, who, Sikhs believe, created everything and is present in every being. Certain exceptions will however, apply. Birth Control Sikhs have no objection to birth control. Organ donation Saving a human life is of paramount importance in the Sikh religion. Therefore, donating organs after death is acceptable to Sikhs.
Sikhs in custody On this page: Advice should be sought on each individual's requirements including diet and prayer needs. Diet Many Sikhs are vegetarians. But those Sikhs who do eat meat eat chatka meat, that is from animals that have been killed quickly, humanely and without religious or ritual ceremonies. Many avoid eating beef. Sikhs are strictly forbidden from eating Halal (see Islam section on Diet) and kosher (see Judaism section on Diet) meat. Dress It is considered disrespectful and offensive for anyone to touch the turban of a Sikh man and the scarf of a Sikh woman. Any search of the head of a Sikh man or woman must be conducted in private, never in public (in accordance with PACE 1984 - Code of practice 1: para 3.5). Should it become necessary to remove the turban or scarf of a Sikh for forensic reasons, a headscarf must be provided to cover the head. Custody sergeants are required to ensure that headscarves are available. Under no circumstances must Sikhs be forced into a public area with their heads uncovered. The carrying of a kirpan (mini sword) is permitted under Section 139 Criminal Justice Act 1988 as a religious artefact. It is usually about 4.5 inches long and must be sheathed at all times, although for ceremonial purposes a full length sword is always used.
Special issues On this page: Forced marriages Guidelines are available from ACPO, together with the Home Office and the Foreign N Commonwealth Office at http://www.lbp.police.uk/publications/dealing_with.htm
The Forced Marriage Unit The Forced Marriage Unit was set up jointly by the Home Office and the Foreign and Commonwealth Officer in 1995. It sees around 250 cases a year. "There used to be confusion between forced and arranged marriages," explains a member of unit staff. "They were seen as being part of a certain culture. But that's changing now. Forced marriage is not a religious or cultural issue - it is a global human rights abuse". Forced marriage means just that - where a victim (one was 13 years old) is told they have to get married and they don't want to. New legislation November 2008 New legislation came into force on November 25th 2008. For further details about the changes to the current legislation, see this Press Association article. Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act 2007 http://www.opsi.gov.uk/acts/acts2007/pdf/ukpga_20070020_en.pdf This new legislation is aimed at protecting the victims of forced marriages and prevents them from taking place. Under the Forced Marriage (Civil Protection) Act, where a forced marriage has or is about to take place, courts will be able to make orders to protect the victim or the potential victim and help remove them from that situation. The legal position The Marriage Act 1949 and the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 govern the law on marriage in England and Wales. The minimum age at which a person is able to consent to marriage is 16; a person between the ages of 16 and 18 may not marry without parental consent (unless the young person is a widow/widower). Section 12c of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 states that a marriage shall be voidable if "either party to the marriage did not validly consent to it, whether in consequence of duress, mistake, unsoundness of mind or otherwise". Voidable means the marriage is valid until it is challenged by one of the parties, at which time the court can award a decree of nullity invalidating the marriage. Possible alternative offences that may be perpetrated by parents or family members in this situation include: Common assault S.29 Criminal Justice Act 1988
Common assault (arrestable offence) Chapter 28, Part 2, S.10 Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act, 2004
Cruelty to persons under 16 (including neglect and abandonment) S.1 (1) Children and Young Persons Act 1933
Failure to secure regular attendance at school of a registered pupil S.444 (1) Education Act 1996
Theft (e.g. passport) S.1 (1) Theft Act 1968
Child Abduction S.1 (1) Child Abduction Act 1984
Abduction of unmarried girl under the age of 16 from parent or guardian S.20 (1) Sexual Offences Act 1956
Abduction of a woman by force or for the sake of her property S.17 (1) Sexual Offences Act 1956
Rape S.1 (1) Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 2003
Aiding and abetting a criminal offence Common Law Offence
Kidnapping Common Law Offence
False Imprisonment Common Law Offence
Murder Common Law Offence
Honour killings Honour killing has no basis in religious law. However, in practice, it is the murder of a woman accused of bringing shame upon her family. Men who kill their wives, sisters or daughters argue that a life without honour is not worth living. Individuals, usually young women, face either being killed by family members or driven to suicide as a result of the shame perceived to have been caused by their behaviour. Sometimes these women are returned to the country of the family's origin to be killed, and sometimes they are killed in this country. It has been known for gay men to suffer the same fate, also for bringing shame on the family. Killings are often disguised as suicide, fire or an accident. In 2003 the Metropolitan Police set up a strategic task force to tackle the issue. A specialist unit was given the task of researching honour crimes and 100 murder files spanning the last decade were re-opened in an effort to find common links. The move followed the killing of a teenage girl in a Kurdish family in London. In 2002, Heshu Yones, 16, was stabbed to death by her father, Abdullah, because he disapproved of her Western dress and Christian boyfriend. Mr Yones then cut his own throat and attempted suicide by jumping from a third floor balcony. At his murder trial in 2003 he begged the judge to sentence him to death. Yones, a political refugee, who had fled Saddam Hussein's regime 10 years previously, was sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of his daughter. Some of the most common reasons for murdering a family member include refusal to enter an arranged marriage, seeking a divorce - even from an abusive husband - or committing adultery. In some cases, women who have been sexually assaulted or raped are then murdered for the 'dishonour' of having been a victim of an attack. Click on the following link to the Sikh Association's own information on this issue.
Entering premises Entering a Sikh Gurdwara (Temple) or a Sikh home that houses the holy-Sikh book 1. Seek assistance of someone familiar with the Gurdwara. 2. On arrival, speak to the person in charge, usually the Management Committee Manager, Secretary or President. 3. Wash hands or wear clean gloves before handling articles of faith or religious writings. 4. Leave shoes outside the Darbar Sahib (prayer room) and the Langar Hall (dining hall). 5. In the event that Holy Scriptures have to be removed, seek the advice of a person with religious authority to ensure proper procedures are followed. If possible, draw up a written agreement about how to handle scriptures. 6. Keep Gurdwara authorities up to date on developments in the case. 7. Tobacco, alcohol and other substances are not permitted in the Gurdwara. Never smoke in the Gurdwara or carry or permit to carry any tobacco products within the Gurdwara. 8. Heads must be covered in the Darbar Sahib (prayer room). 9. Do not take animals into a Gurdwara. This is regarded as more of a hygiene measure than a prohibition for prohibition sake. 10. Do not remove any articles of faith from a Sikh, particularly the 5 Ks (Kangah (a small wooden comb); Kachha (shorts), Karra (steel bangle), Kirpan (small knife), Kesh (long/unshorn hair). 11. There is a tradition of hospitality within Sikhism that often takes the form of the giving of food to visitors to Gurdwaras, called Langar. 12. Do not touch anything in the Sach Khand, which is the room where the Holy Sri Guru Granth Sahib Ji (scriptures book) resides. 13. There are no restrictions with regard to handshaking, but generally speaking contact is only made between men. 14. Should it be necessary to enter or search a Sikh home, police officers should take great care in handling the Holy Book. Basic courtesy, respect and understanding are the key factors.
Zoroastrianism Please note This section of the Policing Diversity reference site will be available in the near future. Please check back for regularly updated information.
Gender On this page: Welcome …to the Gender section of the site. The intention of this section is to provide information on Gender issues for the use of police officers and staff in their professional, everyday duties both among colleagues and the community. Related legislation, links and contacts can be accessed by selecting from the menu to the right of the page. The topics of Transgender and Intersex come under the Met's LGBT Strand, and are therefore included in the LGBT section of this website which can be accessed via the menu to the left hand of this page. Acknowledgements Many thanks to the MPS Gender Strand and to all those who gave their generous help and advice in the preparation of this section. Media articles The most recent media articles can be found in the What's New section.
'I picked her up by her throat'
Ministers to ban free drinks for women
'Come and join us': Fathers 4 Justice welcomes mums
More women work as pay gap narrows slightly
Gay group's anger at Tory amendment to IVF Bill
Gender Equality Duty: 1 April 2007 More information from Unison
INTERVIEW: How the internet changed gay society
Women's group calls for end to City's lap-dancing culture
Marriage rates lowest since records began
Government abandons promise to eliminate mixed-sex wards
Woman who blamed herself for rape jumped from bridge
Married couples are no longer the social norm
Women and gay men are 'worst drivers'
Working mothers toil for an extra 120 hours
Abortions at GP surgeries under consideration
Payment order for sperm donor
What is Gender? The term 'Gender' is often confused with the term 'Sex'. The World Health Organisation website has defined the two terms as follows (in bold):
Sex refers to the biological and physiological characteristics that define men and women.
Gender refers to socially constructed roles, behaviours, activities, and attributes that a given society considers appropriate for men and women. However, various parts of this Gender section are devoted to issues such as sex discrimination, sexual harassment, etc, so definitions themselves can be restricting, and can only be used as a general indication.
Sex discrimination On this page: Sex discrimination: descriptions Direct sex discrimination is treating somebody less favorably on the grounds of their gender. Indirect sex discrimination is the application of an apparently general rule which in practice disadvantages one sex and which cannot be justified. For example, demanding that a candidate for a job is of a minimum height could disadvantage women. Passive discrimination is not contained in legislation and involves attitutude rather than behaviour, ie the witnessing of discrimination and not doing anything about it. Discrimination may, however, be permitted when the nature or duties of a job demand that the employee be of a particular gender. Sex discrimination-related legislation The Sex Discrimination Act 1975 and its subsequent amendments in 2001 and 2003 define the meaning of sex discrimination. (The Act is available by clicking on the Legislation link to the right of the page.) Although the Act refers specifically to discrimination against women, it applies equally to men, except in the case of pregnancy and childbirth. Briefly, it states that it is unlawful to discriminate against anyone in terms of employment, services, job training or education, because of the sex of that person. 3 Sexual discrimination and Police Officers The Sex Discrimination Act 1975 (Amendment Regulations) 2003 (http://www.opsi.gov.uk/si/si2003/20031657.htm) ensures that female police officers can bring claims of sexual discrimination against the Chief Officer of Police and that he or she will be vicariously liable for discriminatory acts carried out by police officers against other police officers. 4 The penalties for sex discrimination can be high, both for organisations and individuals, since there is no limit on compensation. 5 Changes for the police service - from April 2007
The Gender Equality Duty (GED) which comes into force in April 2007 will significantly change the way that the police service deals with sexual discrimination and sexual harassment. 6 Equal Opportunities Commission The Equal Opportunities Commission is the government agency charged to eliminate sex discrimination in Britain. Their website has a wide range of expert advice for individuals and employers and provides up-to-the-minute practical guidance and legal information.
Sexual harassment Sexual harassment should be avoided in all circumstances: when dealing with the community, colleagues and with those in custody. The European Commission defines sexual harassment as "unwanted conduct of a sexual nature or other conduct based on sex affecting the dignity of women and men at work". Intentional sexual harassment: Sexual harassment is often motivated by power and control. It covers a range of behaviours from mild annoyances to serious sexual abuse. It is a form of sexual and psychological abuse and bullying, even in its milder forms. When it is intentional, the perpetrator either enjoys or ignores the impact of his or her actions. Unintentional sexual harassment: But also, sexual harassment can be unintentional. No offence is meant, but a person does not realise that his or her behaviour is having an adverse effect. It is often a case of underdeveloped social skills or a lack of awareness or sensitivity. Avoiding sexual harassment
Avoid: Ultimately the behaviour must be deemed by the individual to be unwanted, and each individual must determine what they consider to be offensive. Words or actions that might be regarded as unacceptable by one person may cause no offence to another. Find out more in the Sexual Harrassment Guide provided by the Equal Opportunities Commission.
Pay & conditions On this page: An overview of pay & conditions There has been an Equal Pay Act since 1970, but equality in pay between men and women has never been achieved. Work of equal value: The Act states that women and men are entitled to equal pay and conditions for work of equal value. Work may be different from that of a male colleague but it can be considered of equal value if it is similar or the same in terms of the demands of the job.
However, on 3 October 2006 women suffered a setback: Maternity and Paternity Leave Information on the length and conditions of maternity and paternity leave can be found in the The Maternity and Parental Leave etc Regulations 1999 and the subsequent The Maternity and Parental Leave (Amendment) Regulations 2002. These contain the detail of the rights to maternity and parental leave contained in the Employment Rights Act 1996 (ERA). They also prescribe the circumstances in which dismissal will be automatically unfair for the purposes of the ERA if the dismissal is for a reason related to pregnancy, childbirth, maternity leave, parental leave, or time off for dependants. The most significant changes in the 2002 amendments are the extension of ordinary maternity leave from 18 to 26 weeks, and the extension of additional maternity leave so as to end 26 weeks from the end of ordinary maternity leave rather than 29 weeks after the week of childbirth (regulation 8(a) and (b)). An employee will qualify for additional maternity leave if she has been continuously employed for at least 26 weeks at the beginning of the 14th week before the expected week of childbirth ("e.w.c."), rather than, as previously, at least a year at the beginning of the 11th week before the e.w.c. (regulation 6). The 1999 Regulations are amended to provide for notification of the date on which an employee intends her ordinary maternity leave period to start to be given to the employer before the end of the fifteenth week before the e.w.c., rather than 21 days before the intended start date as previously; however, there is a new provision for the employee to change the date subsequently provided that her employer is given 28 days' notice (regulation 5). Absence from work on account of pregnancy will cause an employee's ordinary maternity leave period to begin automatically if it is after the beginning of the fourth week before the e.w.c., rather than the sixth week before then as previously (regulation 7). A new requirement is inserted for an employer notified of the commencement of an employee's maternity leave to notify the employee of the date on which it will end (regulation 8(c)). If no such notification is given by the employer, he is unable to prevent the employee from returning early (regulation 10(c)), and the employee is protected against detriment or dismissal if she fails to return on the due date (regulations 13 and 14). The requirement in regulation 12 of the 1999 Regulations for an employee entitled to additional maternity leave to notify her employer, if so requested, whether she intends to return to work at the end of a period of additional maternity leave is removed (regulation 11). Provision is made for all of the rights and obligations in an employee's contract of employment, apart from the right to remuneration, to continue during an employee's ordinary maternity leave period (regulation 9), and for the employee to return from an isolated period of ordinary maternity leave to the job in which she was employed before her absence (regulation 12, which substitutes new regulations 18 and 18A in the 1999 Regulations). Provision to the same effect was made by section 71 of the Employment Rights Act 1996, but that section was amended by section 17 of the Employment Act 2002 so as to provide for the extent to which rights and obligations continue to apply, and the kind of job to which an employee is entitled to return, to be determined in regulations. Besides providing for the rights of an employee returning from an isolated period of ordinary maternity leave, the new regulations 18 and 18A of the 1999 Regulations make provision in respect of employees who return following ordinary maternity leave taken after another period of statutory leave. They carry forward provisions in the original regulation 18 concerning employees returning after additional maternity leave, and extend the provisions in that regulation concerning employees returning from parental leave so as to cover cases where such leave is taken after ordinary maternity leave, paternity leave or adoption leave. Paternity leave Information about the qualifications and conditions of paternity leave can be found on this link.
Women & ethnic minority issues On this page:
Women and ethnic minority issues Government action plan on women and work to look at ethnic minority issues. On 6 September 2006, Minister for Women and Communities, Ruth Kelly, announced that the next phase of the Government's action plan in response to the Women and Work Commission will research economic exclusion and ethnic minority women as a key priority. The next phase of the action plan will look at the particular issues facing ethnic minority women in the workplace. This follows on from a series of practical measures to help women in the workplace published last week by the Government. This was in response to the Women and Work Commission's forty recommendations to Government. Ethnic minority communities overall have a lower employment rate than the rest of the population, and for Bangladeshi and Pakistani women it is particularly low - 24% and 24.2% respectively. The average employment rate for women of working age is 70%. A Government report 'Engaging with Muslim Women' published on 6 September 2006 by DCLG (Department of Communities and Local Government) shows many Muslim women feel that economic exclusion is a major issue for them. Many felt that they can't use the skills that they have or can't get advice to find challenging and fulfilling jobs. Many also reported - particularly those who wear the hijab - they felt they are stereotyped by prospective employers. The report, written following an event held by the Prime Minister with Muslim women from across the country, also shows that Muslim women want to play a stronger and more active role in their mosques, communities and in society as a whole. Many felt that they are routinely excluded from Mosques and community leadership. In order to encourage more Muslim women and other under represented groups to consider roles such as being a councillor, Ruth Kelly also announced that the Local Government White Paper to be published this Autumn will look at under-representation at a local level. Women only make up 29% of councillors in England, compared to 52% of the adult population (aged 21 and over). Asian women make up less than 1% of local councillors in England, and there are no Muslim women who are MPs. Ruth Kelly said; "Finding practical measures to raise employment levels for women from ethnic minority backgrounds into the workplace is a key priority. "Many Muslim women have said that they want to play a more active role in the workplace and we already know that helping women harness their full potential is worth up to £23billion a year to the UK economy. There is an obvious case here for bridging that gap - this is not about preferential treatment but about tackling the barriers to Muslim women entering the labour market, where there are genuine shortages, and making the most of that pool of talent. "The Government is also committed to encouraging more women from Muslim women to take up roles in public life. However, we can only do this with the support of communities themselves and their own encouragement for women to have a stronger role." Some statistics regarding ethnic minority women Asian women make up less than 1% of local councillors in England, and no Muslim women are MPs.
Gender and crime On this page: Statistical overview Men commit more crimes than women. In 2002 male offenders in England and Wales outnumbered female offenders by more than four to one. Only 19% of known offenders are women. Women are also more likely to 'grow out of crime' in their teens. The least difference of rates of offending between young females and young males is in the 10-14 age group. In 2000 the peak age of offending was 18 for males and 15 for females. Slightly higher proportions of male than female offenders (59 per cent compared with 56 per cent) were aged 21 and over. People aged 35 and over, particularly women, are much less likely to be found guilty of, or cautioned for, indictable offences. Men outnumber women in all major crime categories. Between 85 and 95 per cent of offenders found guilty of burglary, robbery, drug offences, criminal damage or violence against the person are male. Although the number of offenders are relatively small, 98 per cent of people found guilty of, or cautioned for, sexual offences are male. Theft was the most commonly committed offence by both men and women in 2002. For indictable offences, 57 per cent of female offenders were found guilty of or cautioned for theft and handling stolen goods compared with 34 per cent of male offenders. 4.1 Gender and victims of crime Men are more likely to be the victims of violent crime than women. Over 5 per cent of men and just under 3 per cent of women aged 16 and over in England and Wales were the victims of some sort of violence in the twelve months prior to interview in 2002/03. Men and women aged 16 to 24 are the most at risk age group. Around 15 per cent of men and 7 per cent women of this age reporting that some sort of violence had been used against them. Domestic violence is the only category of violence where the risks for women are higher than for men. Two women are murdered every week by their current or former partner and 30% of homicide victims in 2000/01 were female. 44% of violent incidents against women were domestic. Risks of violence by a stranger remain substantially greater for men than for women, with men four times more likely than women to suffer this form of attack. Despite being more likely to be the victim of crime, men are less worried than women about most types of crime. Women are between two and three times more likely than men to be very worried about being mugged or physically attacked and five times more likely than men to be very worried about being raped. Roughly equal proportions of men and women are worried about theft of, or from, a car.
Source of information: Crime and hormonal imbalance Some 70% of women in prison claim to have committed their crimes while experiencing PMS (53% before menstruation; 17% during). Crime such as shoplifting by middle-aged women is often attributed to the hormonal imbalances during the menopause. Men are also affected and the condition identified in the US in 1992 as: 'criminal menopause' is defined as the stage in life during which an older, habitual criminal loses interest in crime, or when an older prisoner no longer poses any threat to society. National studies show that only about 2% of men paroled after 55 return to prison. The prison chief in the US state of Louisiana urged the release of lifers at age 45. This may, to some extent, be the result of andropause, the male equivalent of the menopause and the hormonal changes that accompany it.
Women & crime Types of crime committed by women The most common crimes committed by women are theft and handling stolen property - this accounted for 60% of known female offenders in 2001. Of female offenders in prison most were in for drug or theft offences. This has changed since 1996 when the only types of crimes committed by more women than by men were prostitution and TV licence evasion.
Sentencing of women by the courts Differences seem to exist in the way that men and women are sentenced:. Sentences do seem to be influenced by the appearance and behaviour of offenders in court. It has been suggested that women may be treated more leniently by both the police and the courts because of the stereotypical view of women as mothers and carers. As a consequence the courts may show more help and protection to female offenders than to male offenders. The effects of a custodial sentence on children being deprived of the care of a mother would also be a consideration. But in some cases, judges might be less sympathetic to women who do not conform to the mother/carer stereotype. Women in prison On this page: Women in prison - some statistics On 20 October 2006, there were 79,825 prisoners in our prisons: 75,336 male and 4,489 female. Over the last ten years the female prison population has risen by 140% (compared to 46% for men). This is not because there has been a massive female crime wave, it just seems that sentencing has been getting tougher. This has caused immense problems. In England and Wales where there are only 18 prisons for women. With the rising prison population this means that women are often held in crowded conditions and a long way from home, making children's visits particularly difficult. Four out of ten imprisoned mothers will lose their homes while in prison. And since nearly two thirds of female prisoners are mothers their imprisonment affects some 8,000 children under 15 each year. 15% of sentenced female prisoners have previously been admitted to a psychiatric hospital. Over 40% of sentenced women prisoners have reported being dependent on drugs in the year before coming to prison. An estimated 20% of women in prison have spent some time in care. All of this explains why prison reformers are calling for greater use of community sentences for women. Women in prison - some facts We would like to thank the Prison Reform Trust for collating these statistics. Sources:
Domestic violence On this page: Overview Domestic violence happens in all sections of society, it includes physical, emotional, sexual, financial and other abuse. Its victims are very vulnerable. Those who experience domestic violence are often isolated from friends, family and others sources of help. Domestic violence is often considered a 'private' crime; it occurs 'behind closed doors' and the victims find it hard to talk about or even to admit that it is happening. There is no single, simple answer to the problem. Change involves tackling public attitudes, making violence unacceptable and ensuring that the criminal justice system is more sensitive to victims' needs. Women are less likely to be victims of violent crime than men but are far more likely to experience domestic violence. How many people are affected by domestic violence? The police in the UK receive, on average, one call a minute from someone asking for help in a domestic violence incident. Yet this figure — over 500,000 incidents a year — is probably only a third of the domestic violence that actually happens. In four out of every five incidents the victims are women, and more than half of victims of domestic violence are victimised more than once. No other type of crime has a repeat victimisation rate this high. How domestic violence affects children Children often witness domestic violence. Indeed, there seems to be a strong link between people who abuse children and people who abuse partners or ex-partners. Domestic violence often increases when women marry, become pregnant and have children. In almost a third of relationships where domestic violence happens it starts during pregnancy.
Men as victims of domestic violence? Domestic violence does affect men, but it can be very hard for them to talk about. Just under 1 in 5 victims of domestic violence in the British Crime Survey 2001/2002 were men. Yet a Scottish Crime Survey found that a majority of men who said they were victims of domestic violence were also perpetrators. Men are less likely to be repeat victims than women and are less likely to be seriously injured. However, serious domestic violence against men is thought to be very under-reported because of social stigmas. What does the criminal justice system do? The criminal justice system has had difficulties in dealing with domestic violence. Victims are often reluctant to give evidence against their partners either because they are too frightened, or because there has been a reconciliation and they want to believe it will not happen again. Over the last few years there have been major improvements. Police in many areas have specialist staff who are able to work with people suffering domestic violence, offering them advice and information about where they can go to be safe and logging incidents even when no further action is taken so that a proper picture is built up of the extent of the problem. Why don't victims just leave? Many victims do leave. But it isn't as easy as it sounds. Victims may be threatened if they leave. Women leaving violent relationships often report being frightened that their abuser will find them and feel that they are constantly looking over their shoulder. Staying in the violent relationship, and coping with it, may seem a less terrifying option. There is also the problem of finding somewhere to go. According to government figures, women and children fleeing violence in the home account for 16% of those on local authorities' homeless lists and 40% of all homeless women said that domestic violence was a factor in them becoming homeless. Changing Attitudes Part of the problem lies in the fact that attitudes about violence against women are so deeply ingrained. One major research study found that 1 in 2 young males and 1 in 3 young females find it acceptable to hit a woman in certain circumstances (e.g. if they nag). Over half the young people knew someone who had been hit by their male partner and half knew someone who had been sexually assaulted. Men and Domestic Violence Men are the victims of domestic violence at the hands of both female and male partners. Men have exactly the same rights as women to be safe in their own homes. All statutory services (such as the police, Crown Prosecution Service, housing departments and social services) have a duty to provide services to all, whatever their gender. Men are protected by exactly the same laws as women - anyone who has assaulted another person, regardless of the gender of either, can be prosecuted. MASH MASH, The Men As Survivors Helpline provides a free telephone counselling service for men who have experienced any form of sexual abuse or sexual violence at any time in their lives. Further details can be found by clicking on Links and Contacts. The helpline is staffed by trained male and female counsellors skilled in supporting men who are coming to terms with their experiences. Men in distress tend not to seek support for fear of showing weakness. Attempting to cope alone with this distress may lead to over use of alcohol or drugs. It may also, in some cases, lead to self-harm. As well as its own service MASH can give information about other sources of help. MASH Statistics In 2002 there were about 635,000 incidents of domestic violence in England and Wales. Of all reported violent assaults, domestic violence makes up about a fifth. In 2001 42% of all female murder victims were killed by current or former partners, compared with only 4% of male homicide victims. This equates to 102 women; an average of 2 women each week. 1 in 4 women in Europe experience domestic violence over their lifetimes and between 6-10% of women suffer domestic violence in any given year. 'Honour' based abuse and violence The MPS is committed to providing a high quality service with regard to domestic violence (both to external and internal clients). Both MPS policies and MPS occupational standards (SOPs) provide clear direction for staff dealing with these issues.
Domestic violence
Initial Contact with victim
1. Evidence gathering and victim care
2. Intelligence
3. Deployment
4. Controllers
5. Station Reception Officers Menopausal women - in custody
Most women experience certain pre-menopausal symptoms for an average of about six years when they are in their forties and fifties (the average age of reaching menopause in the western world is 51). Women going through these physical changes, which are often a trigger for emotional fluctuations, will need special support. In particular:
Female genital mutilation Introduction and information: FGM is sometimes misleadingly referred to as female circumcision and involves the partial or complete removal of the external female genitalia or other injury to the female genital organs whether for cultural or any other non-therapeutic reason. The Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003 makes it illegal to participate in any sort of arrangement for FGM to be performed on another, either inside or outside the UK. Those who are involved in any way such as aiding, abetting, counselling, procuring or carrying out FGM inside or outside the UK can face 14 years imprisonment. It has very severe consequences both psychological and emotional and the medical consequences include extreme pain, shock, infection, haemorrhage, infertility, incontinence, HIV and death. The majority of cases of FGM are carried out, or originate, in communities from 28 African countries. In some countries such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Somalia and Sudan, prevalence rates are alleged to be as high as 98% and in other countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, Togo and Senegal, the prevalence rates vary between 20%-50%. FGM also takes place in parts of the Arabian Peninsula such as Yemen and Oman and by the Ethiopian Jewish Falashas, some of whom have recently settled in Israel. It is also reported that FGM is practised among Muslim populations in parts of Malaysia, Pakistan, Indonesia and the Philippines.(Source: Operations News Archive 2006).
Preparing for meetings & events On this page: When you are planning a meeting or event: Ensure that there is suitable seating and space for pregnant women. Provide suitable and adequate parking facilities for women who have requested them in advance in the case of pregnancy (see also the Disability section). nsure that toilet facilities are well signed and that women's facilities are well stocked with tampons and sanitary towels. Take into account the religious requirements of men and women, especially orthodox Muslim and Jewish participants who may wish to sit separately from the opposite gender. Inform participants whether or not there are childcare/baby feeding or changing facilities available. Whenever possible, avoid holding meetings before 10 am or in late afternoon so that those parents (father or mother) or carers who have to take and collect have to children to and from school are able to attend the meeting from beginning to end. Consider suitability of venue in terms of safety, ie is the route generally safe for women walking to the venue, well lit and not isolated? Invitations In an invitation or any papers that are sent out in advance, add a section as follows: Please let us know what we can do to ensure that you are able to play a full part in this reception/meeting/event. If you have any particular childcare requirements or are pregnant and wish for a supportive chair and/or a seat near an exit with access to nearby female facilities, or parking facilities, we will do everything to accommodate you. Please let us know if you have any dietary requirements or wish to for any gender-related seating arrangements as a religious requirement.
LGBT On this page: Welcome …to the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) section of the site. lease select the topic you require from the left-hand menu and related legislation, contacts and links on the right of the page. If you wish to contact us about this section please select the "Contact Us" option on the right of the page. Acknowledgements Many thanks to all those who helped in the preparation of this section. Media articles The most recent media articles can be found in the What's New section.
Former Mr Gay UK jailed for 30 years for cooking and eating flesh of boyfriend
UK Police Instructed Not to Interfere with the "Human Right" of Anonymous Public Sex
Miriam Margolyes' lesbian confession gave her mother a stroke
Bishops open service at Lambeth Conference despite gay split
Cardinal: Gay Pride Marches in Latvia Should be Declared Unlawful
Iranian asylum-seeker says he was 'one step from death'
First Mr Gay UK winner charged with murder
'I'm a polymorphous pervert': Boris and his mayoral rivals make their case for the gay vote
Gay men risk of HIV 'still high'
Blood service defends gay discrimination
Teacher's victory in gay discrimination case
Gay blood ban row moves to Scottish parliament
Let Gay Men Give Blood, Say Welsh Lib Dem Youth
LGBT History Month
Gay couple suffer second incident of bus discrimination
Gays reject equality promoter, Dr Joel Edwards
Cardinal criticises UK gay equality laws
Straight bouncer harassed by gay club boss who called her a breeder
Lesbian, Gay & Bisexual This section provides information about the Lesbian Gay and Bisexual Community. Select related topics from the menu to the left of each page. Select related legislation, links and contacts from the choices on the right of each page.
Discrimination Discrimination on the grounds of sexual orientation In December 2003, the Sexual Orientation Regulations, dealing with discrimination, harassment and victimisation in work and vocational training, came into force. They make it unlawful to deny people jobs on the grounds of prejudice related to their sexual orientation or perceived orientation. In addition, they empower individuals to take prompt and effective action to tackle harassment and to receive equal opportunities for training and promotion, whatever their sexual orientation. The Regulations also cover the subject of sexual orientation and association, i.e. discrimination based on the sexual orientation of those with whom you associate, for example, friends and/or family. See the Regulations in more detail by clicking on the legislation link on the right-hand side of the page.
London's LGB community The lesbian, gay and bisexual (LGB) community consist of a hugely diverse range of men and women from all levels of society, working in every area of employment. Statistics A rough estimate made by the Gay to Z website on how many LGB people live in London put the figure at approximately 5%, or 400,000 although recent Government figures suggest that 7% of the population may be lesbian, gay or bisexual. The number of social, political and cultural groups that represent the LGB community indicate that London has an established lesbian and gay community with LGB clubs and pubs being an integral part of the London scene. The annual Gay Pride march brings together gay men and women from all over the UK in celebration of the community. The Gay PRIDE flag, which is internationally recognised as a symbol of LGB unity, has been carried in PRIDE marches by members of the police service. In recent years, events linked to the PRIDE march have been sponsored by some police services. Where once senior officers refused permission for gay officers to celebrate by marching in uniform an initiative by the Gay Police Association has led to ACPO ranks marching in uniform to celebrate diversity. This has alerted people to the existence of LGB officers and staff and has also assisted in raising the positive profile of the police service within the LGB community by the gay communities. In 2006 Pride London was host to EuroPride, and had over 600,000 participants, making it the biggest ever EuroPride event. Though many towns and cities in the UK have flourishing LGB communities, with the largest in, Brighton, Manchester and Glasgow, the majority live in London. London hate bombings in 1999: the Admiral Duncan pub, Soho On 30 April 1999, a bomb exploded in a homophobic attack on the Admiral Duncan, a gay pub in Soho's Old Compton Street. Three people were killed. This incident shook the LGB communities across not only London but nationally and proved to be a turning point in the relationship between the MPS and the LGB communities. As a result of this incident LGBT Liaison Officers were recruited to engage with the community. Today every borough has at least one LGBT LO and their role is recognised as critical in gaining and maintaining the trust and confidence of lesbian and gay communities across London. London centres of the lesbian and gay community Although Soho is the social centre of London's LGB community, a number of key areas around London are popular with lesbians and gay men. These are Vauxhall and Clapham in the south and Earl's Court, Hackney and Stoke Newington in the north. Coming out Coming out describes the process whereby a lesbian, gay or bisexual person tells someone, publicly or privately, that they are LGB. Many LGB people are not out, often because of a fear of violence, ridicule or harassment from family, friends or work colleagues. Young people are often attacked or evicted from their family homes when they tell family members they are lesbian, gay or bisexual. Many face violence and homophobic bullying at school and on the street. LGB adults may already have endured years of keeping an important part of their lives and identities secret. Coming out may result in losing contact with parents, children, friends, community and work associates. Even when a member of the lesbian, gay or bisexual community is out, it does not mean they are out to everyone. They may have told family members or friends and not told work colleagues or associates. Conversely, they may have told work colleagues but not family and friends. The most significant people in their lives (parents, for example) are often the last to be told. This may be linked to an individual's negative frame of reference about being lesbian, gay, or bisexual, formed by social and domestic pressures to conform to the majority 'heterosexual' group. Lesbians, gay men, and bisexuals never stop coming out; for example, they may have to come 'out' to a police officer to report a homophobic hate crime. LGB people who are not out may report a homophobic hate crime as a standard assault or street robbery. Officers should be aware of, and sensitive to, the dangers of inadvertently outing someone to their family or others in their community. If a member of the LGB community is not out (to family and friends) when reporting an incident, it may be necessary to provide a supportive environment free of family and friends where possible. Officers should also consider the most appropriate location to interview the person, for example, in the person's home, or at an appropriate place suggested by the person themselves.
There is no reason why being lesbian, gay, bisexual should be an issue in any situation involving contact with the police. Lesbians, gay men and bisexuals do not expect preferential treatment - they expect, simply, the same standards of professional service as everyone else, delivered according to their needs. Some LGB people may be reluctant to report a crime because of the circumstances of the event, perhaps because of the location of the incident or those involved. A member of the LGB community reporting what appears to be a relatively minor physical injury, but who shows great distress, could well be the victim of a more serious assault, such as rape.
Lesbians can be more at risk from violence than other women because of anti-lesbian activity. In addition to assault and damage to property, prejudice, harassment and discrimination can occur in less obvious ways, for example theft of property or obscene phone calls (this could also apply to gay men and bisexuals). Family life
Many lesbians, gay men and bisexuals are in committed long-term relationships. It is important to be aware of different family structures and recognise that not all families are representative of the traditional family structure. For example, some children may have same-sex parents. Children raised within LGBT families often have extended family members who are also part of the lesbian, gay or bisexual community. Religion and family life Some communities, cultures and religions in the UK hold strong beliefs about 'traditional family life' and LGB issues. Faced with these circumstances, some LGB people who remain in traditional family structures may never reveal or acknowledge that they are lesbian, gay or bisexual. They have little choice but to conform to the perceived traditional values expected by their families, friends, work colleagues and other associates. Bereavement
Officers should be empathetic, impartial and treat each individual according to their needs. It should not be automatically assumed that the next of kin of the deceased will be a 'blood' relative, a member of the person's family or a partner of the opposite sex. Officers dealing with death and bereavement in an LGB family should consider that there may be a conflict between a surviving partner and members of the deceased's family. It is important to remember that some families or close relatives may not have been aware that the deceased was lesbian, gay or bisexual, and this may add to their distress. On occasion, LGB people are ostracised by their families after coming out to them. When dealing with bereavements, the role of close friends of the deceased who may often represent an extended family should be considered. Such people, although not partners of the deceased, may have established very close personal ties. The same level of courtesy and empathy should be shown to extended family members as well as to relatives of the deceased. A deceased person's partner should be fully informed, supported and treated with respect, and a Family Liaison Officer assigned where appropriate. Civil partnerships
Same-sex couples are now able to legally formalise their unions through the Civil Partnership Act which came into force on 5 December 2005. The process is purely a civil procedure. It is not a marriage as such but provides a legal recognition and protection to same-sex couples. Those who have a civil partnership are also bound by a similar process to divorce of married couples. They must go through a formal, legal process to dissolve their union in court and, as in the case of marriage, must wait for a two year period before dissolution can take place. Civil partnerships offer many new rights to same-sex couples. These include: Civil partnerships that have been sanctioned in countries where same-sex unions are legal are also recognised under UK law. Transgender
This section deals with the Transgender Community. Transgender is an all- encompassing term to cover transsexuals and transvestites or cross-dressers. Select related topics from the menu to the left of each page. Select related legislation, links and contacts from the choices on the right of each page
Transsexualism: A Basic Guide For Work Colleagues* 1. What is a transsexual person? Transsexuals are individuals who strongly feel they are or ought to be the opposite sex. The body they were born with does not match their own inner conviction and mental image of who they are or want to be. They are uncomfortable with the gender role society expects them to play based on their body. This dilemma causes them intense emotional distress and anxiety and often interferes with their day to day functioning. Transsexualism is recognised as a medical condition known as gender dysphoria. 2. Transsexuals and transvestites Transsexuals and transvestites are often referred to collectively as 'transgender'. Transsexuals are not to be confused with transvestites, cross dressers and drag queens who dress in clothes of the opposite sex predominantly for some form of sexual pleasure. It is not a criminal offence to cross-dress in public. It is often wrongly assumed that transvestites are necessarily gay. Many are not and live as conventional heterosexuals in all other aspects of their lives, including heterosexual marriage and children. 3. Transsexuals in London In the United Kingdom there are believed to be somewhere in the region of around 5,000-8,000 transsexuals, both pre and post operative. However, the precise number is not known. A large proportion of transsexual people in the UK are to be found in London where a transgender community exists. 4. The process of changing gender Transsexuals undertake hormone therapy and regular visits to a psychiatrist. Once they are content with their appearance they begin what is known as a real life test (rlt). Real life tests last a minimum of 12 months and once completed the individual must receive two referrals from two different doctors before surgery can commence. Once the real life test begins the transsexual person will be treated as their new gender, including using the relevant toilet facilities. If female staff express concern at sharing female toilets with someone they may regard as "male", they may also receive counselling. Statistics show that approximately 40% of transsexuals are heterosexual, 40% are lesbian and the remainder bisexual. Pre-operative persons are advised not to date during the time leading to their operation. Dating with the wrong body might feel inappropriate and uncomfortable, and there are limits as to how far they can go sexually. Remember to use the perceived correct gender identifier at all times, it really does help the person concerned. Interaction
1. Passing In the transsexual community there is a concept of 'passing'. This refers to the ability of a person to move about in public as a member of their chosen gender without being recognised as transsexual. Where a person does not 'pass', confusion may arise as to how a police officer should deal with that person. Transsexual people should be dealt with in a manner appropriate to the gender they present. 2. Self-identification Most transsexual people do not identify as being lesbian, gay or bisexual, and it is inappropriate to describe all hate crimes against transgender people as homophobic. For every person who is confident enough to be seen "dressed" publicly, there are many others who would not contemplate the idea away from a "safe" environment. 3. Identification of crime on CRIS When identifying a transphobic crime it should be flagged 'HT' on CRIS. However, it may initially appear to be a homophobic crime because of the nature of the abuse. 4. Advice for officers dealing with transsexuals and transvestites (ACPO Good Practice Guide on Transgender): "We must ensure that we treat transvestites and transsexuals with the same respect and dignity as any other member of the public. We must also recognise that in carrying out some procedures, such as strip searching, there is also a requirement to be sensitive to the dignity of the police officers called upon to perform the task." 5. When meeting transgender people Police staff will encounter transgender people in the same situations as they would any other member of the public and as victims of homophobic and transphobic crime. Most of these encounters will cause no difficulties, as they will not differ from encounters with other members of the public. 6. Recognising the gender of a person In day-to-day encounters, officers must deal with the person as the gender they present. Where a person will not or cannot indicate how they would like to be dealt with, for example if they have been involved in an accident, police staff should treat the person as though they are the gender they appear. where appearance does not provide an indication of gender, the birth gender of the person will be used. 7. Confidentiality. Transsexual people It is important to respect an individual's need for confidentiality. Many transsexual people are living in their chosen role and have no wish for others to be aware of their transsexualism. Transvestites Wives, families, neighbours and employers may be unaware of the situation, and the person involved could be greatly embarrassed if such information were made known.
8. Assessing gender over the phone Listen to the name offered by the person and refer to the person in the gender suggested by their name. 9. Documentation Officers should be aware that transsexual people who are living full time in their chosen role may change all their documentation, including their birth certificate, to reflect their new gender if they are in possession of a Gender Recognition Certificate issued by the Gender Recognition Panel. 10. Sensitivity in dealing with transsexual people Transsexual people represent an aspect of diversity with which many officers have little or no experience. Transsexual people must be treated with the same courtesy as anyone else and are entitled to the same level of service. By being sensitive and attempting to deal with the issues in the way that the person requires, while achieving our lawful purpose, it is possible to demonstrate a commitment to equality of treatment, respect for the individual and human rights principles. Hate crime
The Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) defines hate crime as and defines a homophibic incident as: (Identifying and Combating Hate Crime, ACPO 2000). If anyone is being harassed, bullied or verbally abused because they are lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender, they should report it. Consult the new intranet website on hate crime and how to deal with it. Domestic violence This link will take you to the section on this site that deals with domestic violence.
Glossary
A brief, though not comprehensive, glossary of preferred equality terminology (from Stonewall). Bisexual: a person with a sexual orientation towards both men and women 'Coming out': People who acknowledge their sexual identity to themselves, and then tell others. Revealing your sexuality is a life-long process. Cruising: looking for casual sex. Not all men who cruise identify as gay. Some may be in a heterosexual relationship and are just looking for casual sex with other men. Civil Partnership: The legal recognition of a same-sex relationship. It's not 'marriage' in the religious sense of the word, but it awards lesbian and gay couples the same legal rights and responsibilities as heterosexual married couples. Gay: An umbrella term for lesbian, gay and bisexual people. It is best to avoid using this word to cover all LGB people as it can render lesbians and bisexual people invisible. Gay man: a man with a sexual orientation towards other men. Gender Identity: A person's self-identification of being male or female. Gender Reassignment: A medical process whereby an individual undertakes medical treatment to enable transsexual people to alter their bodies to match their gender identity. Heterosexism: An attitude that assumes heterosexuality is the only valid sexual identity, and makes product, policy or practice on this basis. Homosexual: Considered by some in the LGB community to be a derogatory and offensive term. It was used when same-sex attraction/relationships were construed as a mental illness. Use gay, lesbian, gay man/woman, bisexual, bisexual man/woman or the acronym LGB (lesbian, gay and bisexual). Homophobia: literally defined as fear of 'the other'. The beliefs and actions of people who hold these views and act upon them are based around a hatred of, or intolerance for, and/or a refusal to accept or acknowledge the equal rights of any lesbian, gay and bisexual people. Lesbian: a woman with a sexual orientation towards another woman. LGB: Acceptable acronym for lesbian, gay and bisexual people. LGBT: Acceptable acronym for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender. Outing: Publicly declaring another person's sexuality without their permission. A lesbian, gay or bisexual person may 'out' themselves. Polari: gay speak (from the Italian, parlare - to speak) was spoken in the gay community in the fifties and sixties, but has now substantially died out. Before consenting adult gay sex became legal there was a necessity for secrecy, and a specific vocabulary developed and was used. Though Polari is no longer widely spoken in gay circles, words such as camp, naff, butch, drag (clothes, especially women's clothes) and bevy have become part of mainstream English. Sexual Orientation: the term that indicates sexual attraction to persons of the same, opposite or same and opposite sex. Transgender: an all encompassing term to cover transsexuals, transvestites and cross-dressers. More specifically it can refer to someone who experiences 'gender disphoria' between their sexed body and society's construction of gender role. Can also refer to someone who consciously 'plays with' gender/sex role norms. A transgender person may or may not choose to alter their bodies with hormone therapy or surgery. Transsexual: an older, more medical term for a person who feels a consistent and overwhelming desire to lead their life as a member of the opposite sex. Transvestite: A clinical term for a cross-dresser. A person who dresses in the clothing of the opposite gender. Generally, these persons do not wish to alter their body. Race
Please note This section of the Policing Diversity reference site will be available in the near future. Please check back for regularly updated information. Other
Please note This section of the Policing Diversity reference site will be available very soon. Please check back for regularly updated information.
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