WHAT IS A DIVERSITY POLICY? A diversity policy is a statement of your organisation’s commitment to promoting Equality and Diversity. They are entirely a best practice activity and, whilst many employers do, your organisation does not have to have one. Most diversity policies include the following information:
A declaration of your organisation’s commitment to equality and fostering a diverse workforce. e.g. ‘We seek to create a working environment where all employees, regardless of their race, ethnicity, religion, gender, sexual orientation, martial status, age, pregnancy, maternity or disability are: 1) given equal opportunity to succeed in our organisation, 2) able to work free from bullying and harassment and 3) work in an environment where all decisions are made based on merit.’
An identification of the types of discrimination that your organisation will seek to combat. e.g. Direct discrimination, indirect discrimination, harassment and victimisation (for more information Click Here for the Discrimination, Informal and Formal Grievances and The Equality Act (2010) chapter of the Women in Business Toolkit or find it on the Chamber website www.Birmingham-Chamber.com/WIBToolkit)
A series of statements about the kind of working environment your organisation hopes to create and the types of behaviour that are not acceptable, both in the workplace and at work functions. e.g. We wish to create an environment in which all colleagues treat each other with respect and understanding, both in work and at