"Provided the Grainger tests are satisfied there is no finite list of beliefs which can be protected, but they do need to be serious, worthy of respect, and must not conflict with the rights of others, so deeply objectionable beliefs will not usually be protected."
Speaking with HR Magazine, partner Anthony Sakrouge discusses what constitutes a protected characteristic, explaining the five tests established in Grainger plc v Nicholson which must be satisfied for a belief to constitute a philosophical belief for the purposes of protection against discrimination. In this case, he explains that a football fan cannot claim their support of a club to be a protected characteristic.
The article may be read in full online at HR Magazine.
Anthony is head of the employment team. He acts for both employers and employees, specialising in contentious work and negotiations relating to the complex starting and leaving packages of directors and other senior employees.