1.1 Follow the principles for equality, diversity and inclusion
It is important to follow the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion in order to provide high-quality, respectful, and inclusive care to individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life. This means treating everyone with dignity, respect, and compassion, regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or socioeconomic status. To follow the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion, health and social care professionals should:
- Be aware of and sensitive to the diverse backgrounds and needs of the individuals they serve
- Provide care in a non-discriminatory manner, without making assumptions or stereotypes about an individual based on their identity or background
- Respect the individual’s autonomy and choices, and involve them in decision-making about their care
- Communicate in a way that is accessible and understandable to the individual, and use appropriate language, modes of communication, and accommodations as needed
- Provide care that is inclusive and responsive to the individual’s needs and preferences, and consider their cultural and spiritual beliefs and practices
- Create a safe and welcoming environment that is free from discrimination, harassment, and violence
- Seek to eliminate any policies, practices, or barriers that may prevent individuals from accessing care or participating fully in their care
In addition, health and social care professionals should also strive to promote equality, diversity, and inclusion in the broader health and social care system. This may involve advocating for the rights of marginalised or disadvantaged groups, participating in diversity and inclusion training, and promoting inclusive policies and practices within their organisation. By following these principles, health and social care professionals can ensure that they provide high-quality, respectful, and inclusive care to individuals from all backgrounds and walks of life.
Other answers in the full document:
- 1.2 Implement the duty of care and candour
- 1.3 Safeguard and protect adults and children; promote the principles to others
- 2.1 Legislation, policies and local ways of working about duty of care, candour, raising concerns, safeguarding/ protection from abuse, diversity, equality and inclusion; what they mean, why they are important, how to promote them to others
- 2.2 How discrimination can happen; how to deal with conflicts between a person’s rights and a duty of care
- 2.3 The signs of abuse, what to do if you suspect it, how to reduce the chances of abuse as much as possible
- 1.2. Describe the potential effects of discrimination
- 1.3. Explain how inclusive practice promotes equality and supports diversity
- 2.1. Explain how legislation, policy and codes of practice relating to equality, diversity and discrimination apply to own work role
- 3.3. Describe how to challenge discrimination in a way that promotes change