The Strategic benefits of Diversity in the NHS
The provision of “a comprehensive service for all” is at the heart of the NHS constitution. In order for Trusts to meet this pledge, along with the legislative requirements within which it is situated, promoting diversity and ensuring equality is no longer an option; it is an imperative.
“a comprehensive service for all”
Extending beyond compliance with race and equality legislation, and in line with an increasingly diverse and multi-cultural society, today’s health care leaders must ensure that the services provided are accessible and available to all.
High quality care provision hinges on an ability to respond to – and engage with – customers; and, as NHS organisations are required to operate on an increasingly competitive footing, failing to identify, understand, and act upon the different needs of different customers is not only an organisational risk; it is also costly.
A workforce that reflects the demographic composition of the people it is serving increases awareness and widens participation; and, the benefits extend beyond the customer base. Through actively promoting and facilitating diversity, Trusts are able to:
- attract and develop new talent;
- improve reputation and reach;
- overcome leadership inequalities;
- improve workforce motivation and cohesion; and,
- increase productivity and efficiency.
With extensive experience of working with diverse customer groups and with businesses seeking to engage with diversity, Exemplas supports the NHS to meet the legislative requirements, social expectations and business benefits of diversity, through:
- Support in attaining the Investors in Diversity (IiD) standard, offering a framework for diversity best practice;
- Support in implementing the structure and processes required for IiD and Investors in People (IiP) accreditation;
- Provision of training to support diversity management, awareness, and legislative compliance; and
- Information, guidance and signposting for diversity related issues.