What is equality, diversity and inclusion
At its core, equality means fairness. We need to make sure that people are not treated less favourably because of their protected characteristics. These include:
- age
- disability
- gender reassignment
- marriage and civil partnership
- pregnancy and maternity
- race
- religion or belief
- sex
- sexual orientation
Equality also means equality of opportunity. We must make sure people who may be disadvantaged can get the tools they need to access the same, fair opportunities as their peers.
Diversity is recognising, respecting and celebrating each other's differences. A diverse environment is one with a wide range of backgrounds and mindsets. This allows for an empowered culture of creativity and innovation.
Inclusion means creating an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. An inclusive environment can only be created once we are more aware of our unconscious biases and have learned how to manage them.
Wakefield Council are committed to:
- promoting fairness
- tackling inequalities
- recognising and celebrate diversity
- making sure everyone who lives, works and visits Wakefield feels welcome and included
Wakefield Council embraces the Equality Act 2010 and Public Sector Equality Duty.
Our EDI objectives, policy and action plan 2024-2026, and Gender Pay Gap information are available on our EDI Annual report.
This is why Wakefield Council is committed to providing equality of opportunity. By working to eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and prejudice, we recognise diversity by understanding, respecting, valuing, and embracing difference.
By promoting equality and respecting diversity, Wakefield Council aims to be inclusive. This will make a positive and active contribution to both employees and citizens across the district.
As a Council we want to provide high quality and accessible services that deliver what matters most to our diverse communities. For this to happen we need to take responsibility for our actions and behaviours. We must also recognise that Equality, Diversity and Inclusion underpins every service, decision, group or organisation that we support and work alongside. This ensures all the decisions we make are responsible, sustainable and fair.
We also want our workforce culture to promote and embrace equality, fairness and inclusion. We are committed to supporting our workforce to develop and to deliver and commission quality services.