Fillable Printable Sample Equality & Diversity Policy

Sample Equality & Diversity Policy

(It is often advisable to seek professional advice when developing your policy.)

(Company name)

The purpose of this policy is to provide diversity and equality to all in

employment, irrespective of their gender, race, ethnic origin, disability, age,

nationality, national origin, sexuality, religion or belief, marital status and

social class. We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination.

All employees, whether part time, full time or temporary, will be treated fairly

and equally and with respect.

Selection for employment, promotion, training or any other benefit will be on

the basis of aptitude and ability.

All employees will be helped and encouraged to develop their full potential

and the talents and resources of the workforce will be fully utilised to

maximise the efficiency of the organisation.

Our commitment:

• Every employee is entitled to a working environment which promotes

dignity and respect to all. No form of intimidation, bullying or

harassment will be tolerated;

• The commitment to diversity and equality in the workplace is good

management practice and makes sound business sense;

• Breaches of our diversity and equality policy will be regarded as

misconduct and could lead to disciplinary proceedings;

• This policy is fully supported by senior management and has been

agreed with trade unions and employee representatives (insert details

if appropriate);

• The policy will be monitored and reviewed annually;

• Implementation (include brief details of what will happen, how the

policy will be monitored and reviewed over time).

Continued over.

The law:

This policy will be implemented within the framework of the relevant

legislation, which includes:

• Equal Pay Act 1970 (Equal Value Amendment 1984)

• Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974

• Sex Discrimination Act 1975 (Gender Reassignment Regulations 1999)

• Race Relations Act 1976

• Disability Discrimination Act 1995

• The Protection from Harassment Act 1997

• Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000

• Race Relations Act 1976 (Amendment) Regulations 2003

• Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations 2003

• Employment Equality (Religion or Belief) Regulations 2003

• Disability Discrimination Act 2005

• Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006

Notes:

What should my diversity and equality policy cover?

A policy is not required by law but it is a good starting point for fairness at

work. It is illegal to discriminate in employment so this will be a statement of

your aims and attitudes as a company towards diversity and equality and how

you intend to fulfil those aims and your legal obligations.

On the employment side, you should include:

• Recruitment issues (including advertising guidance), selection,

training, promotion, discipline & dismissal;

• Policies with regard to victimisation, discrimination and harassment.

These issues should be included in your disciplinary and grievance

procedures;

• Policy development - identification of the person responsible for the

policy and implementation together with employee consultation;

• Communication of the policy to all staff members and then availability

of the policy to staff thereafter;

• Monitoring of job applicants, successful applicants, trainees,

grievances, promotion, dismissal, etc;

• Reviews – of the policy and implementation of any changes;

Remember

– no matter how well written your policy is, any policy

without an action plan to back it up has no means of measuring its

impact and effectiveness.