Christian claims discrimination against charity Touchstone over beliefs

Felix Ngole previously won a legal case against Sheffield University

A Christian opposed to homosexuality has denied that vulnerable people may have killed themselves had he been given a mental health support role.

Social worker Felix Ngole is taking Leeds-based mental health charity Touchstone to an employment tribunal.

The 46-year-old from Barnsley says his job offer was withdrawn after bosses discovered his religious beliefs.

However, an expert had warned that hiring him "may lead to the death of some service users", the hearing heard.

Mr Ngole claims he was the victim of direct and indirect discrimination, as well as harassment.

He previously won a legal case against Sheffield University in 2019 after being kicked off his course for posting on social media that homosexuality was a sin.

Grandfather-of-two Mr Ngole, who has also worked as a youth pastor, a housing officer and a teacher, told the hearing his initial interview with Touchstone in May 2022 had gone well.

'An interrogation'

He was offered a job, subject to reference checks, but was called back for a second interview after the organisation became aware of his Court of Appeal win against the university and his views on homosexuality.

The organisation was concerned service users could find out about his views by using internet searches which could "negatively impact them", Mr Ngole's legal case stated.

The devout Christian said his second interview felt like "an interrogation".

Representing him, Michael Phillips read out a report submitted by Touchstone in which an expert discussed his views on homosexuality.

Mr Phillips summarised the expert opinion as saying Mr Ngole's employment "may lead to the death of some service users".

'Under attack'

Giving evidence at the tribunal in Leeds, Mr Ngole, who took a copy of the bible to the hearing, said: "I love people, it's part of my faith.

"I cannot say I am serving a loving God and hate the people he has created."

He rejected suggestions he had been aggressive in his second interview, telling the hearing: "I was simply defending my faith, which I believe was under attack."

He claimed to have faced no accusations of discrimination throughout his career of more than 20 years.

"As a Christian, I do not see any conflict in working with and for people from the LGBT community," he added.

"That said, there is a distinction between respecting and loving the person and yet lovingly and respectfully disagreeing with their views and/or behaviours."

The hearing continues.