Equality, diversity and inclusion

At Lancashire and South Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust we are committed to ensuring that everyone involved in the Trust, including staff, service users and carers are treated equitably and with dignity and respect.

We are working hard to ensure our workforce reflects the diversity within Lancashire and South Cumbria and that our services meet the needs of our local communities.

Trust employees have collaborated to define what equality, diversity and inclusion mean to them.

Equality

Equality is about treating individuals fairly and ensuring that they have the same opportunities to fulfil their potential, even if this means doing things differently for different people sometimes.

The Equality Act 2010 protects individuals and groups of individuals from discrimination so they cannot be treated less favourably, no matter what their age, disability, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation or circumstances in relation to gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity.

Diversity

A culture which values a variety of ideas, experiences and practice where differences are respected and celebrated for the benefit of ourselves and the communities we serve.

Inclusion

When individuals with diverse needs are included without prejudice or discrimination, societies can access a wider pool of talent, commitment and experiences, taking the best from all backgrounds.