Corporate Information

Equality Objectives and Equality Strategy

The Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has identified its equality objectves for 2013-2017.  These have been formulated via enagagement with groups, individuals and organisations that represent all of the protected characteristics defined under the Equality Act 2010.  These objectives serve as evidence of adherence to the single equality duty 2011 and the requirements outlined in the specific duties, published in September 2011. 

Our equality objectives are:

  • Patient experience and satisfaction with accessibility and service provision follow national guidance with regard to all the protected characteristics

  • Services, information and  resources can be accessed by everyone

  • Increase the awareness and competency of all staff in assessing and endeavouring to meet the diverse and individualised needs of people from across the protected characteristics

  • Assessment of equality performance is undertaken by internal and external stakeholders from across the protected groups

  • Advance equality of opportunity for disabled volunteers

 Our annual equality strategy report 2017-2018 demonstrates our equality duty adherence - click

Background information

On 5th of April 2011 the second phase of legislation under the Equality Act came into force. With this has come the single equality duty and a requirement that all public bodies meet the general duty to:

  • Eliminate unlawful discrimination, harassment and victimisation and other conduct prohibited by the Act.
  • Advance equality of opportunity between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not.
  • Foster good relations between people who share a protected characteristic and those who do not.

The general duty now covers all the protected characteristics and replaces the previous duties for race, disability and gender. This is an extended duty that includes - race, disability, sex (gender), age, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, sexual orientation and religion or belief.

There is no longer a public sector duty to formulate and publish a single equality scheme.  This is replaced by the development of equality objectives which must ensure that all protected characteristics are included.  These objectives should come from engagement with stakeholders and all relevant research and evidence. 

If you would like any more information or would like to see the previous single equality scheme (2009-2012), please contact Joe O'Grady, Equality & Diversity Manager. Human Resources Department - 01244 364283 or email joe.o'grady@nhs.net

 

Corporate Information