Equality is about creating a fairer society where everyone can participate and has the opportunity to fulfil their potential. It is backed by legislation designed to address unfair discrimination based on membership of a particular group. It can be summarised in terms of: equal access, equal treatment, equal shares, and equal outcomes. Diversity is about the recognising and valuing difference, creating a working culture and practices that recognise, respect value, and harness difference for the benefit of the organisation and the individual. Both equality and diversity are inter-dependent. There is no equality of opportunity if difference is not recognised and valued.
The Practice:
- Will ensure that everyone is treated with dignity and respect
- Will offer equal opportunities to all, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, religion, age or marital status
- Will not tolerate any discrimination against patients, employees, or visitors. Any such discrimination will be considered a disciplinary offence
- Comments about gender, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or age may be offensive and will not be tolerated in the workplace. Disciplinary action will be taken against anyone found to be making inappropriate comments in connection with any of the above
If you feel discriminated against you should bring the matter to the attention of the Service Delivery Lead, who will ensure that the matter is investigated thoroughly and confidentially within seven working days. Where necessary, appropriate action will be taken to prevent any further discrimination taking place. This policy applies to all employees and partners, GP locums, temporary staff, and contractors, and applies equally to all patients and visitors to the practice
