Equality & Diversity

What does Equality and Diversity Mean?

Equality and diversity is a term used in the United Kingdom to define and champion equality, diversity and human rights as defining values of society. It promotes equality of opportunity for all, giving every individual the chance to achieve their potential, free from prejudice and discrimination. 

Equality is about ensuring that everybody has an equal opportunity, at home, at work, and in society, and that each person is not treated differently or discriminated against because of their characteristics.

Equality of opportunity means that everybody has an equal chance to take up opportunities, as well as being able to make full use of the opportunities on offer and fulfil their potential. In simpler terms, whatever your age, race, gender, you should still have the opportunity to reach your potential within the world of work according to the equality of opportunity.

Diversity is about taking account of the differences between people within a group and placing a positive value on those differences. A workforce should be built up of people who all look different, think differently, and have different beliefs. 

The Equality Act 2010

The Equality Act 2010 is the main legislation when it comes to the topic of discrimination. Its main focus is that people are protected from discrimination on these grounds:

1.      Age

2.      Disability

3.      Gender reassignment

4.      Marriage and civil partnership

5.      Pregnancy and maternity

6.      Race

7.      Religion and belief

8.      Sex

9.      Sexual Orientation

All the above can occur in the workplace and as a result, businesses have to meet the standards of the Act in order to remain compliant. By doing so, they benefit through maintaining a diverse workforce, as well as creating an attractive business to customers due to their attitudes about the topic.

At EDLounge we strongly believe inequality of opportunity enables all to; Learn, Enjoy, Achieve and Progress, (LEAP) thus creating a pathway into a meaningful and fulfilling life full of opportunities.

EDLounge is committed to equality of opportunity. The aim is to create an environment in which people treat each other with mutual respect, regardless of age, disability, family responsibility, marital status, race, colour, ethnicity, nationality, religion or belief, gender, gender identity, transgender, sexual orientation, trade union activity or unrelated criminal convictions.  

Employers are expected to act in line with EDLounge’s policy, to support and encourage their apprentices in their own development and understanding of equality and diversity within the workplace, at EDLounge and during reviews. It is the responsibility of all staff and students to uphold EDLounge policy on equality.

See below links to other sources of information in relation to Equality and Diversity

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/equality-act-2010-guidance

https://services.cqc.org.uk/sites/default/files/gac_-_dec_2011_update.pdf

Refer to the policies link to access the EDLounge Equality and Diversity policy