Equality and diversity

Equality is embedded throughout all of our services. It is not an extra piece of work, but part of our day-to-day life, each and every day and in everything we do.

Our Equality and Diversity policy explains the Council's commitment to equality of opportunity and respect for diversity in its role as a provider of quality services to the people who live, invest and bring up families in South Tyneside, as a significant employer in the local economy and in its community leadership role. We recognise that South Tyneside is a diverse place and this policy seeks to promote this by valuing the uniqueness of each individual.

Equality

Equality is about making sure people are treated fairly and given fair chances. It is also about ensuring that all people achieve equal outcomes, either in the standard of service they receive or as employees. It is not about treating 'everyone the same', but recognising that everyone's needs are met in different ways.

Diversity

Historically organisations and individuals tended to view diversity as a race, gender or disability. In reality, diversity includes sexual orientation, age, ethnicity, religious belief, physical ability, educational background, geographical location, marital status, class and work experience to name a few.

A diverse organisation embraces people for their individuality and recognises that customers come from different backgrounds and circumstances. Employees are accepted for their cultural backgrounds and differences in lifestyles and are recognised for their abilities and skills to do the work.

Diversity is not a 'one off' programme but is at the heart of the organisation and integrated into all daily Council business.