Equality, Diversity and Human Rights

Achieving equality and appreciating diversity are factors that cannot be left to chance. The Trust has an equality, diversity and human rights strategy that will ensure that all staff and patients are treated fairly whether it be on the grounds of race, religion or belief, age, disability, sex, or sexuality.

Our Equality and Diversity Statement

In line with the requirements of the Equality Act and our commitments in the NHS Equality Delivery System (EDS), equality must lie at the heart of what we do and what we stand for as a Trust.

We will reflect this in how we provide better health outcomes for our patients through improved access and experience. We will work with our staff to create a service that is personal, fair and diverse, that meets the needs of every patient and all staff.

Together we must all work to:

Create a culture in which all patients and staff are respected and valued, and their rights are promoted and supported.
Eliminate all forms of institutional discrimination and ensure adherence to legislation and appropriate codes of practice.
Ensure diversity principles are fully reflected in the actions of all staff and contractors within the Trust.
Work collaboratively with local health economy providers to reduce health inequalities and integrate delivery of positive health outcomes for protected groups in our decision making processes.
Promote a positive culture at work to eliminate harassment and victimisation.
Initiate and deliver appropriate services that respect the needs of individuals from marginalised and minority communities or groups.
Recognise the capacity and professional capabilities of our workforce and make necessary changes to re-enforce the types of behaviours that are needed and appropriate to developing a safe and inclusive culture for staff and service users.
Provide positive engagement with patients, carers, and local communities from protected groups.
Use the best available evidence and best practice examples to inform service and workforce developments.
Report on equality as part of our mainstream business for continuous improvement.

Baroness Margaret Wall of New Barnet

Chairman

Tim Peachey

Interim Chief Executive

August 2012

NHS Employers equality & diversity partner

Associate Partners - NHS Employers

Professor Carol Baxter, Head of Equality and Diversity, NHS Employers (OBE) praised the work of the Trust - "I am delighted that Barnet and Chase Farm Hospitals NHS Trust has successfully completed the NHS Employers Equality and Diversity Partners programme for 2010/2011. This programme supports Trusts to embed good equality and diversity practice into their day to day business.

This Trust has shown great leadership and innovation in this area over the past year. Not only working had to promote good practice internally, but also at a regional and national level to share that good work with others. This is a credit to the board and the staff involved in this work at a time of considerable change for the NHS".

March 2010