Diversity, equality, inclusion and discrimination are a key part of health and social care.
You will need to promote them during your work, when you are supporting individuals and when you are working with other people.
Most people have experienced discrimination in one way or another.
Some people are more likely to suffer discrimination. These people might be: older people, young people, females, disabled people, homosexuals, lesbians, transgender people and ethnic minorities. Discrimination may be direct, indirect or positive.
Inclusion is a human right for every individual.
The aim of inclusion is to embrace all people irrespective of race, gender, and disability, medical or other needs, culture, age, religion and sexual orientation. It is about giving equal access and opportunities and getting rid of discrimination and intolerance.
There are various of pieces of legislation in place to protect individuals from issues relating to equality, diversity, discrimination and rights.
From 1 October 2010, the Equality Act 2010 came into effect. The Equality Act legally protects people from discrimination in the workplace and in wider society. It ensures consistency in what workplaces need to do to comply with the law and make working environments fair.
In your role you will need to demonstrate equality and inclusion.
How did you get on? Let’s take a look at the correct answers…
In your job role, you have a duty of care to challenge discrimination in a positive way and promote inclusion.
If discrimination is challenged effectively, future incidents of discrimination can be prevented, as well as empowering individuals to understand their rights. There is more information about your Duty of Care in Standard 3 of the Care Certificate.
There are a range of sources available about equality, diversity and inclusion.
Your manager can always support you and you can read information about the legislation. Here are some other suggestions with links to their websites:
It is important that you know how and when to access information, advice and support.
The Equality Act 2010 states that discrimination is unlawful and people must not be treated unfairly because of who they are.
We have created some scenarios for you to consider…
If you believe someone is being or has been subjected to discrimination, you should report this straight away to your manager or employer.If you feel you are personally the subject of discrimination, again, report this straight away to your manager.
In either situation, you should make a record of what you have seen or heard, including times and dates. You should only record the facts, not your personal opinions or thoughts. Note who else was present. Be as specific as you can. Accurate detailed records mean there is a greater chance of resolving the situation.
