Code of Conduct for Worshippers and Visitors

The masjid is a sacred space for prayer, reflection and community. It is essential to maintain a respectful and welcoming environment for all worshippers and visitors in line with Islamic teachings, UK laws and the guidelines set by the Charity Commission. This Code of Conduct outlines the expectations for behaviour within the masjid premises.

1. Respect for the Masjid and Its Purpose

• The masjid is a place of worship, learning, and community engagement. Visitors and worshippers must respect its sacred nature and treat all areas with reverence.
• Worshippers should ensure that they are dressed modestly and appropriately when entering the masjid. Clothing should cover the body according to Islamic guidelines, avoiding anything that may be distracting or inappropriate.
• Silence and decorum must be maintained in prayer halls, classrooms and other prayer-related areas.

2. Observing Islamic Practices

• Prayer: Worshippers must follow the prescribed acts of worship (Salah) with full attention and respect. Arriving on time for congregational prayers and maintaining good etiquette during prayer is essential.
• Purity: Visitors and worshippers must perform Wudu (ablution) before prayer. The masjid will provide facilities for ablution; these should be kept clean and visitors should ensure they use the facilities respectfully.
• Respect for the Quran: The Quran is the most sacred book in Islam, and it should be handled with utmost care. Visitors are not permitted to touch the Quran without Wudu and it should never be placed on the floor or handled carelessly.

3. Respect for Others and Community Conduct

• Inclusivity: The masjid is a place for everyone regardless of race, nationality, or socio-economic background. All individuals should treat each other with kindness, dignity and respect.
• Gender Respect: Both men and women have designated prayer areas and they must respect these divisions and the arrangements that support a harmonious atmosphere. Women should have access to prayer spaces that provide privacy and safety in line with their dignity and comfort.
• Noise Control: Visitors and worshippers should avoid speaking loudly, playing music, or creating disturbances in the masjid. Use of mobile phones should be minimized or silenced in prayer areas to prevent distractions.
• Children: While children are welcome, they must be supervised by a parent or guardian at all times. Children should be taught to respect the masjid, particularly during prayers and religious activities.

4. Health, Safety, and Hygiene

• Cleanliness: The masjid should always be kept clean and tidy. Worshippers are encouraged to maintain cleanliness in their personal habits and to leave prayer areas clean for the next group of worshippers.
• Health and Safety: The masjid must adhere to UK health and safety regulations, including fire safety, accessibility for people with disabilities and emergency evacuation procedures. Worshippers must familiarize themselves with these procedures.
• Personal Hygiene: Worshippers and visitors should maintain good hygiene practices, particularly when attending the masjid. This includes regular handwashing, keeping clothing clean and using the ablution facilities properly.

5. Respect for Masjid Property

• Proper Use of Masjid Facilities: All masjid property, including prayer rugs, microphones, speakers, educational materials, and books, should be used responsibly and respectfully.
• No Smoking or Vaping: Smoking or vaping is strictly prohibited on masjid premises, in accordance with UK law and Islamic principles of preserving health.
• No Food or Drink: Food and drink should not be consumed in prayer areas unless authorized for special occasions. Worshippers should use designated areas for eating, ensuring that the masjid remains clean and sanitary.

6. Charity and Donations

• Charity and Financial Contributions: Worshippers and visitors are encouraged to support the masjid’s charitable activities through voluntary donations. All donations will be handled transparently, in compliance with the regulations set out by the Charity Commission.
• Transparency: The masjid will provide clear guidelines on how funds are used. The Charity Commission’s guidelines on financial transparency and accountability will be adhered to. Any concerns related to the use of donations should be addressed to the masjid’s administration.
• Fundraising: Any fundraising activities in the masjid must be approved by the masjid management to ensure compliance with UK laws and Charity Commission guidelines.

7. Behavioral Expectations

• No Discrimination or Harassment: The masjid is a place of peace and mutual respect. Discrimination, harassment, or any form of violent behaviour, including verbal abuse or physical altercations, will not be tolerated.
• Respecting Privacy: Worshippers should respect each other’s privacy and avoid intrusive behaviour. For example, personal conversations should be conducted in private spaces, not in communal areas.
• Political or Sectarian Activities: The masjid is a space for spiritual development, not for political or sectarian activities. Political slogans, demonstrations, or discussions that disrupt the peaceful environment of the masjid will not be tolerated.

8. Compliance with UK Laws and Charity Commission Guidelines

• UK Laws: The masjid and all worshippers and visitors must comply with UK laws, including anti-terrorism laws, equality legislation, and health and safety regulations. Any behaviour that violates UK law will be reported to the relevant authorities.
• Charity Commission Regulations: As a registered charity, the masjid must comply with the rules and guidelines set out by the Charity Commission, particularly in terms of governance, safeguarding, and financial management. All individuals associated with the masjid are expected to abide by these regulations.

9. Reporting Misconduct and Safeguarding

• Safeguarding: The masjid is committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of all individuals, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and people with disabilities. Any concerns related to safeguarding must be reported to the masjid administration immediately.
• Complaint Handling: Worshippers and visitors are encouraged to report any misconduct or inappropriate behaviour to the masjid administration. A complaints procedure will be available, ensuring that complaints are addressed in a fair, transparent, and timely manner.
• Disciplinary Actions: Anyone who violates this Code of Conduct may face disciplinary actions, which could include temporary suspension or permanent banning from the masjid premises, in accordance with UK law and the masjid’s internal regulations.

10. General Guidelines

• Volunteering and Participation: Worshippers are encouraged to volunteer and participate in masjid activities, including religious, educational, and charitable events, in accordance with the masjid’s schedule and policies.
• Visitor Guidelines: Visitors should follow this Code of Conduct during their time at the masjid. Visitors should respect the peaceful environment and refrain from disruptive activities.
• Masjid Management: The masjid management reserves the right to amend this Code of Conduct to comply with changing laws, regulations, or community needs.

Conclusion

The masjid is a place for spiritual reflection, learning, and community. By adhering to this Code of Conduct, all worshippers and visitors contribute to maintaining a peaceful, respectful, and harmonious environment in line with Islamic values, UK laws, and the guidelines of the Charity Commission.