Session 1: Equality & Diversity

What are the 9 protected characteristics of the Equality Act (2010)?

- Age

- Disability

- Gender reassignment

- Marriage/civil partnernship

- Pregnancy and maternity

- Race

- Religion/belief

- Sex

- Sexual orientation

What are the different forms of prohibited conduct identified by the Equality Act (2010)

- Harassment

- Victimisation

- Direct discrimination

- Indirect discrimination

- Discrimination by association

- Discrimination by perception

- Discrimination arising from disability

General duties outlined by the Equality Act (2010)?

- Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation and other conduct prohibited by the Act

- Advance equality of opportunity between people who share protected characteristics and those who do not

- Foster good relations between people who share protected characteristic and those who do not

What does legitimate and proportionate mean (if it appears illegal discrimination is taking place)?

In a number of situations where it appears illegal discrimination is taking place:

- The act of discrimination can be justified at law if the action under consideration is deemed to be proportionate means of achieving a legitimate aim

What are the common drivers of discrimination?

- Prejudice

- Stereotyping

- Unconscious bias: refers to bias we were unaware of and which happens outside of our control

What is unconscious bias?

Refers to a bias we are unaware of - and which happens outside of our control. It is a bias that happens automatically and is triggered by our brain making quick judgements and assessments of people and situations

How can we manage our unconscious bias?

1. Being aware we are all subject to unconscious bias

2. Make critical decisions slowly

3. Challenge stereotypes when you become aware

4. Make decisions independently - discuss with colleagues with an open-mind

Why is respect important in the clinical environment?

Patients whose diversity is respected/treated as unique individuals - more likely to receive more appropriate care and therefore better treatment.

What is equality and diversity?

- Equality: A fundamental part of fair society in which everyone can have the best possible chance to succeed in life

- Diversity: Recognises that everyone is different in a variety of visible and non-visible ways, and that those differences are to be recognised, respected and valued.