Principles of diversity, equality and inclusion Essay

1. Understand the importance of diversity, equality and inclusion 1.1 Define what is meant by: †¢ diversityIndividual differences. Includes many factors, eg. race, gender, religious and political belief, abilities and disabilities, age and culture †¢ equalityInstilling a balance of fairness and status to all individuals †¢ inclusionaccommodating every individual to be part of a situation †¢ discriminationthe treatment of a person due to prejudice of their individual differences see more:legislation and codes of practice relating to diversity 1.2 Describe how direct or indirect discrimination may occur in the work setting Direct discrimination may be only including a particular group of people who the carer considers appropriate by their personal opinion. Direct discrimination may occur therefore due to a carers personal belief or opinion which should not be relevant whilst working in a care environment. Indirect discrimination is the assumption that the carer knows about a person without obtaining relevant information. This may occur if the carers assumes the individual is unable to take part in an activity by their own assumption rather than by any particular knowledge 1.3 Explain how practices that support diversity, equality and inclusion reduce the likelihood of discrimination If practices are in place to help carers have a better understanding of diversity, inclusion and equality, such as training and employment of diverse individuals, discrimination will naturally be reduced. If carers are enabled to get to know the diverse backgrounds, and gain a better understanding, stereotyping should be reduced 2. Know how to work in an inclusive way 2.1 List key legislation and codes of practice relating to diversity, equality, inclusion and discrimination in adult social care settings The Equality Act 2010 legally protects people Care Quality Commission compliance regulations Policies and procedures within the workplace 2.2 Describe how to interact with individuals in an inclusive way By getting to know the individual’s background you will be better equipped to encourage inclusion. They should feel comfortable in the environment to feel properly included. This may include treating them equally, without authority, listening and speaking with consideration and sincerity. The person should be encouraged to behave naturally in a way that is comfortable to them and does not challenge the individual to change themselves to fit into your own ideologies. 2.3 Describe ways in which discrimination may be challenged in adult social care settings Discrimination can be challenged by not tolerating and taking immediate action if it occurs. All individuals should be encouraged to challenge discrimination in a fair and calm way, this should be led by respect and consideration of others. When discrimination occurs, incidents should be reported and recorded. By making all staff, carers, service users and their carers/families aware of the discrimination policies and procedures, discrimination can be dealt with more swiftly and effectively. When carers are properly trained, they will have a better understanding of discrimination and be in a position to act positively to prevent and challenge the incident. 3. Know how to access information, advice and support about diversity, equality, inclusion and discrimination 3.1 Identify sources of information, advice and support about diversity, equality, inclusion and discrimination The workplace would be my first point of call for information. I would look to our handbooks, policies and procedures guidelines as well as management. I could also source information from government agencies and online support, and the Care Quality Commission for further information and support. Further still I could consider obtaining advice from related charities, organisations and private professionals. 3.2 Describe how and when to access information, advice and support about diversity, equality, inclusion and discrimination I should access information, advice and support at all stages, from initial training to refresher courses and keeping up to date with policy and legislation changes. It should be my responsibility as a carer to be aware of current information at all times. When incidents of discrimination occur I would immediately make my colleagues and managers aware and gain guidance and  support from the offset. If I found the support and information insufficient, I would then look to further sources for information, support and advice until I received a satisfactory conclusion for all involved.