Equality and Diversity
Understanding Diversity
A Single Legal Framework
The new Equality Act came in to force in October 2010. The other provisions will be coming in at later dates to allow people and organisations time to prepare for the changes. It will bring about a single legal framework, providing clearer, streamlined law that is more effective at tackling disadvantage and discrimination.
The new laws require us to take an even more pro-active approach to equality and diversity. We also have a responsibility to ensure that our partners, companies and organisations we commission, to provide services on our behalf, take the same positive approach to equality.
Further Guidance is available on what you need to know about the Equality Act.
Protected Characteristics
Discrimination law protects us from being treated less favourably because of certain characteristics. These are known as protected characteristics:
- Age
- Disability
- Sex
- Race
- Religion or Belief
- Sexual Orientation
- Gender reassignment
- Marriage and Civil Partnership
- Pregnancy and Maternity
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