This guidance supports UK medical and dental schools in creating inclusive environments for students of all faiths. It outlines practical steps to ensure students can practise their religion while studying and training, and highlights the importance of proactive engagement, clear communication and institutional accountability.
Summary
This publication presents recommendations and actions across ten key areas:
- institutional governance and student engagement
- application and pre-arrival information
- induction and inclusive welcome activities
- reporting and support systems for discrimination
- on-campus facilities and dress code policies
- clinical placements and conscientious objection
- academic timetabling and religious observance
- assessment scheduling and prayer accommodations
- fasting and support during religious periods
- monitoring and recording adjustments
Key findings
- Students of faith often face exclusion or misunderstanding in clinical and academic settings.
- Inclusive policies, such as prayer space access, flexible dress codes and religious holiday leave, are essential for student wellbeing.
- Clinical placements must accommodate religious needs, including prayer, dress and dietary requirements.
- Proactive communication and student consultation improve trust and engagement.
- Staff and students benefit from training in cultural humility, bias and active bystander skills.
- Clear reporting pathways and visible support roles help address discrimination effectively.
Recommendations
- Develop and share clear policies on religious accommodations, including dress, prayer, fasting and holidays.
- Engage faith societies and chaplaincies in designing induction materials and ongoing support.
- Ensure placement providers understand their responsibilities and provide appropriate facilities.
- Avoid scheduling assessments on major religious holidays and allow prayer breaks where needed.
- Offer flexibility during fasting periods and consider mitigating circumstances where necessary.
- Monitor and record religious accommodation requests (with consent) to reduce student burden.
- Provide training for staff and students on faith inclusion, microaggressions and cultural awareness.
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