Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

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Equality, diversity and inclusion have long been part of the values of social employers.

  • Equality is about making sure individuals (or groups of individuals) are treated fairly and equally and no less favourably than others, in a way that takes account of any specific needs they have.  So equality is not about “treating everyone the same”.
  • Diversity is about recognising, respecting and valuing the differences between people, so that everyone has the chance to contribute and realise their full potential.
  • Inclusion is about providing a positive environment where everyone can safely contribute and have their perspectives valued.

Your organisation will need to comply with equalities legislation, notably the Equality Act 2010.  The Act established 9 protected characteristics (the grounds on which discrimination is unlawful).  These cover age, race, sex, religion/belief, sexual orientation, pregnancy/maternity, gender reassignment, disability and marriage/civil partnership.

Our Model Policy can be adapted by any organisation and our information note provides further guidance on this topic.