3 things you need to know about equality, diversity and inclusion

Equality, diversity and inclusions (EDI) is the idea that all people should have equal rights and equal treatment and be welcomed and included in the workplace. Therefore, no one should experience any disadvantage because of reasons protected by law (referred to as protected characteristics) and that each person should be given the same opportunities as others according to their needs.

EDI are separate but interconnected issues, which may require different approaches.

A workplace encouraging EDI can help:

• make it more successful
• keep employees happy and motivated
• prevent serious or legal issues arising, such as bullying, harassment and discrimination
• to better serve a diverse range of clients and customers
• improve ideas and solve problems
• attract and retain good staff.

1) What is equality?

Equality in the workplace means equal job opportunities and fairness for you.

Your employer must not treat you less favourably because of their protected characteristics (eg disability).

Failure to provide equality in the workplace could lead you to suffer from work related stress and to raise a grievance for contravention of the Equality Acy 2010 and subsequently, an employment tribunal claim, which could include:

• indirect discrimination
• indirect discrimination
• harassment
• equal pay.

2) What is diversity?

Diversity is the range of people in an organisation. This could include people with different ages, religions, beliefs, ethnicities, people with disabilities, and both men and women. It also means valuing those differences that you possess.

Failure to recognise diversity in the workplace can lead to you raising grievances and making employment tribunal claims for say:

• indirect discrimination
• indirect discrimination
• harassment.

Employers should ensure:

• what is expected of its employees and directors is actually happening in the workplace
• employees and directors understand what is legally protected
• changes are made if what is expected is not happening (eg policies and training)
• employees and directors understand the benefits of having a range of diverse people in the workplace.

(3) What is inclusion?

An inclusive workplace means everyone feels valued at work. It lets you and all other employees feel safe to:

• come up with different ideas
• raise issues and suggestions knowing this is encouraged
• try doing things differently to how they have been done before, with management approval.

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If you are experiencing issues with EDI in the workplace. You may feel out of your depth and in need of support. Marjon Law is here to help.