Makindo Medical Notes

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) is at the heart of the NHS. Every patient and colleague deserves to be treated with dignity, fairness, and respect. This training ensures staff understand their legal duties, challenge discrimination, and foster a safe, inclusive environment.

⚖️ Legal & Policy Framework

• Equality Act 2010 – protects against discrimination on the basis of protected characteristics.
• Human Rights Act 1998 – ensures the right to dignity, privacy, and freedom from degrading treatment.
• NHS Constitution – commits to respect, compassion, and improving lives for all.

🛡️ Protected Characteristics

Under the Equality Act, it is unlawful to discriminate against individuals based on:

• 👶 Age
• 🚻 Sex
• 🏳️‍🌈 Sexual orientation
• 🤰 Pregnancy & maternity
• 👩🏽 Race/ethnicity
• 🙏 Religion or belief
• ♿ Disability
• ⚧ Gender reassignment
• 💍 Marriage & civil partnership

🤝 What Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Means

• Equality ➝ Ensuring fair treatment and equal access to opportunities.
• Diversity ➝ Recognising, valuing, and celebrating differences.
• Inclusion ➝ Creating a culture where everyone feels safe, respected, and able to contribute fully.

🚨 Types of Discrimination

• Direct discrimination – treating someone less favourably because of a protected characteristic.
• Indirect discrimination – applying a policy that disadvantages certain groups.
• Harassment – unwanted behaviour that violates dignity or creates a hostile environment.
• Victimisation – unfair treatment for raising a complaint of discrimination.

🏥 EDI in NHS Practice

• Use inclusive language and avoid assumptions.
• Respect patients’ cultural, religious, and personal needs.
• Make reasonable adjustments for those with disabilities (e.g., accessible appointments, interpreters).
• Challenge inappropriate comments, behaviours, or “banter”.
• Promote equal opportunities for career progression.

🌟 Benefits of an Inclusive NHS

• Improves patient safety and satisfaction ✅
• Boosts staff morale and retention 💼
• Encourages innovation and creativity 💡
• Reflects the diverse communities the NHS serves 🏘️

📋 Staff Responsibilities

• Treat patients and colleagues with dignity and respect.
• Report incidents of bullying, harassment, or discrimination.
• Complete mandatory EDI training and apply learning in practice.
• Support colleagues by being an ally and promoting fairness.

📚 References & Further Learning

• Equality & Human Rights Commission
• NHS Employers – EDI
• NHS England – Equality & Diversity<_