Equality and Diversity

Introduction

The Council is a service provider, employer and community leader. We value diversity and take our responsibility to promote community cohesion very seriously.

At North Hertfordshire District Council we recognise and value the different communities living in, visiting and working in our area.

In recognising this 'diversity', it is important that everyone in the district is given the same opportunities and treated fairly no matter what their race, disability, sex, age, religion or sexuality.

Through our role as community leader, service provider and employer, we have made a promise to promote equality, create a harmonious community and do our best to prevent discrimination.

We are committed to making sure that our services and employment practices reflect the highest possible equality standards. We want to make sure that we provide fair and equal access to services and that we consult all our customers and communities on decisions that affect them.

We also aim to be fair, reasonable and non-discriminatory as an employer.

Corporate Equality Strategy

North Hertfordshire District Council agreed a new Corporate Equality Strategy in 2009. It is available to download below:

Corporate Equality Strategy (851Kb) (link opens in a new window)

Definitions

Direct discrimination occurs when someone is treated less favourably than other people are or would be treated in similar circumstances. This can show up as segregation, abuse or harassment.

Indirect discrimination occurs when a condition or requirement is applied equally but where a significant number of people from a particular group are unable to comply with it. For example a Council requires that official complaints by the public are made in writing: this could indirectly discriminate against people with disabilities that make writing difficult or impossible.

Harassment is described as inappropriate actions, behaviour, comments or physical contact that is objectionable or causes offence to the recipient. It may be directed towards people because of their gender, appearance, race, colour, ethnic origin, nationality, age, sexual preference, a disability or some other characteristic

By recognising diversity and promoting equality, we can fulfil our priority to 'reduce social exclusion and improve the quality of life for everyone'.

The Council seeks to promote equalities and diversity in accordance with the national legislation framework.

This includes: