Tips on British Culture

Faith / Religion

The UK has one of the most religiously diverse populations in Europe, and the right to religious

freedom is embraced. Communities and individuals are free to practice their faith without hindrance

and encouraged to openly celebrate it.

It is illegal in the UK for anyone to discriminate against you because of your faith or religion. If they do

you must report it.

Discrimination

It is illegal in the UK to discriminate against people because

of their colour, race, ethnic or national origins, age, gender, sex

or sexual orientation, disability and gender reassignment or

transgender. If you have been discriminated against for any of

these reasons, you must report it.

If you have been found to have discriminated against someone

you could be prosecuted.

Smoking

In the UK smoking is forbidden in all enclosed public places

such as pubs, restaurants, nightclubs, shops, offices,

government buildings, factories, private members' clubs, in

cinemas and on public transport.

You are allowed to smoke outdoors, at home or in provided smoking rooms in prisons, care homes and hotels.

Certain outdoor locations such as sports arenas and railway platforms could have a smoking ban.

If you are unsure about whether you can smoke somewhere, look for signs or ask somebody before you light your cigarette.

If you are caught smoking in a banned area you could be fined £50.

Alcohol

It is illegal to drink alcohol in some public areas in the UK. If you are caught drinking alcohol in a public

place where drinking is not permitted, it will be confiscated from you. Excessive drinking can lead to

public order offences for which you can be arrested and prosecuted.

Remember it is illegal to drive any vehicle whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Spitting in Public

Whilst it is not illegal to spit in public, many people will find it offensive. If you need to sneeze or blow

your nose, use a tissue or handkerchief so you don't cause offence.

Appointments

It is important to arrive on time for meetings and appointments. In places such as hospitals and

doctor's surgeries you are advised to arrive 10 minutes early. This will help to keep waiting times

down. If you know that you are going to be late or unable to attend a meeting or appointment,

you should let the person know in advance.

Visiting Friends

If you are invited to someone's home for a meal, you may wish to take a small gift (such as flowers,

chocolates or a bottle of wine) or you could invite them to your home in return. People from the UK

will be interested to hear about your home country, so you might like to bring some photographs

or small items to show your friends or guests.

Greeting People

In the UK it is polite to say ‘please' when you ask for something and ‘thank you' when you receive

something, or if someone is kind to you. If you meet somebody you know say ‘hello', or if you want

make a more formal greeting you can shake hands. In the UK you do

this with your right hand. It is not unusual for people in the UK to

say 'hello' to people that they don't know, but this is less common in

larger towns and cities.

Queues

Wait in a queue (or line) for buses, at supermarket checkouts and

other public places. People will be offended and think that you are  

rude if you do not.

Social Activities

If you take part in social activities you will find it easier to make

friends. You can visit your local community centre to find out what

social activities they arrange. Going to a public house (pub) is a  

common social activity for people in the UK. Pubs do sell non-

alcoholic drinks and often hold special events in which you can get

involved in.

Remember, if you feel uncomfortable about taking part in something

you have been invited to do, just say no, you will not cause

offence.