The Trust is committed to promoting equality and diversity, and meeting its commitments under equality legislation and NHS standards. The Trust has assessed its current position and priorities through an NHS established system – Equality Delivery System 2 – which is available through the link below. We will publish updates on progress on this section of our website.
Equality, diversity and human rights is an important part of our everyday lives, as citizens, employees, service users and providers.
The Equality and Diversity Lead provides staff at all levels with advice, guidance and tools to embed equality, diversity and human rights into their roles. It is therefore necessary for staff to understand the agenda and how to make it part and parcel of your role without it feeling an add on and something extra that you are required to do.
What is equality?
Equality is recognising that discrimination is unacceptable regardless of people's gender, race, sexual orientation, nationality, religion, ethnic or national origin, marital status, age, colour, disability, carer status or social background. To treat everybody with equality does actually mean to treat people differently with equity, as we all have very different needs and requirements.
What is diversity?
Diversity is the many distinct characteristics that staff, patients, carers and families bring to our organisation. These distinct characteristics bring variations of thinking, communication styles, skills and personalities that are respected and valued.
What are human rights?
Respect for the human rights of an individual or group is fundamental to ensuring their quality of life. The economic, social and cultural rights, including the rights to fair employment conditions and health care without discrimination, are relevant to the NHS as both an employer and service provider. There are basic Human Rights Principles (The FREDA Principles); Fairness, Respect, Equality, Dignity and Autonomy. These principles are a fundamental to the NHS.