Equality & Diversity in the NHS

Overview

The Equality Act 2010 offers protection to nine characteristics, as well as those who are at risk of discrimination by association or perception. These characteristics are:

• age
• race
• sex
• gender reassignment status
• disability
• religion or belief
• sexual orientation
• marriage and civil partnership status
• pregnancy and maternity

The Law protects against Direct and Indirect discrimination and it is vital that all those responsible for policy, procedures and decision making are fully aware of legal requirements.

Benefits
This course has been designed provide managers with tools, such as the Equality Delivery System (EDS)  to deliver better outcomes for patients and communities, ensure better working environments for staff,  and be confident that the organisation are complying with legal requirements.

Objectives

The NHS already has clear values and principles about equality and fairness, as set out in the NHS Constitution, and equality, diversity and inclusion continue to be at the heart of the NHS Strategy. It is vital that local management ensures this is reflected throughout the organisation to deliver a more inclusive service and improve patient care, and that the organisation is fully committed to promote equality and diversity in all aspects of service provision and service delivery.

A clear understanding of the Lawful definition of equality, diversity and inclusion is the basis is vital to ensure compliance.

Content

An Introduction to Equal Opportunities and Equality: how discrimination law has evolved and some of the high profile cases which have changed the way in which we now approach Equality. Understanding Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.

The Principles of the Equality Act 2010: how can your organisation ensure that these principles are embedded into the day to day commitments associated with your organisation

The impact of discrimination on people’s lives:

• Exploring what is behind this behaviour; how prejudice and beliefs can lead to discrimination
• Identifying the types of discrimination
• Understanding how our policies and procedures can be reviewed to avoid any incidents

The NHS Equality Delivery System (EDS)

Case studies: understanding how to deal with discrimination and prejudice and how these cases are dealt with by Law