Diversity
The concept of diversity encompasses acceptance and respect. This means understanding that each individual is unique and recognising our differences. These can include race, ethnicity, gender, gender identification, sexual orientation, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, political beliefs, or other ideologies. It explores these differences in a safe, positive, and nurturing environment. It is about understanding each other and moving beyond tolerance to embracing and celebrating the rich dimensions of diversity contained within each individual.
Equality
Equality is the current term for “Equal Opportunities” based on the legal obligation to comply with anti-discrimination legislation. Equality protects people from being discriminated against on group membership, i.e. sex, race, disability, sexual orientation, religion, belief, or age.
Inclusion
Inclusion is a collective effort and practice in which different groups or individuals from different backgrounds are culturally and socially accepted, welcomed, and treated equally. These differences could be self-evident, such as national origin, age, race and ethnicity, religion/belief, gender, marital status and socioeconomic status. They could be more inherent, such as educational background, training, sector experience, organisational tenure, and even personality, such as introverts and extroverts.
How do diversity, equality and inclusion affect us as employees?
Employees can rest assured that they will not be discriminated against in the workplace, have equal opportunities for promotion and progression, and are only being assessed on their performance and measurable merits. They will feel empowered because they know they are only being employed for their aptitude, just as everyone else around them.
Moreover, the employee can be confident that they will be given the right tools to do their job correctly, which can be anything from proper disabled access, flexible working hours, and even good communication from all staff members. When there are no barriers to job progression, the workforce feels more positive about their jobs and will be more committed to working hard for the company that is working hard for them. These diversity and equality initiatives create a real sense of understanding and respect throughout an organisation, which engenders a much better, more pleasant and productive working atmosphere for everyone.