We place diversity, equality and inclusion at the heart of everything we do. Employing over 60 members of staff in a range of full time and part time positions, we recognise the importance of complying with our statutory obligations under Section 75 (see below), equality legislation and the various codes of practice.
We strive to ensure our staff, are treated fairly, with respect and that the Social Care Council provides a safe, welcoming and inclusive environment for all. We also recognise the importance of promoting diversity and inclusivity, and seek to harness the best from our workforce regardless of peoples’ age, religion, gender, race, disability and ethnicity.
EQUALITY LEGISLATION
Section 75 and Schedule 9 to the Northern Ireland Act 1998 came into force on the 1 January 2000 and placed a statutory obligation on public authorities in carrying out their various functions relating to Northern Ireland, to have due regard to the need to promote equality of opportunity:
– between persons of different religious belief, political opinion, racial group, age, marital status, or sexual orientation;
– between men and women generally (this includes transgender people);
– between persons with a disability or long-term medical condition, and persons without; and
– between persons with dependants and persons without.
In addition, without prejudice to this obligation, public authorities are also required to have regard to the desirability of promoting good relations between persons of different religious belief, political opinion, and race. The statutory obligations are implemented through Equality Schemes, approved by the Equality Commission, and by the screening of policies and the carrying out of Equality Impact Assessments (EQIAs) as required.
For the Social Care Council’s policies on equality and guidance – see Associated Resources.
The Social Care Council is supported by the Equality Team at Business Services Organisation.