Purpose

Sandymount Green Medical is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in the services we provide. We believe that everyone should have access to high-quality healthcare in an environment that is welcoming, respectful, and free from discrimination. This policy sets out our commitment to ensuring that our practice is a place where all individuals, regardless of their background or circumstances, are treated with fairness, dignity, and respect. 

Scope 

This policy applies to all patients, staff, contractors, and visitors at Sandymount Green Medical. It covers all aspects of the practice, including patient care, employment practices, recruitment, training, and service delivery. 

Commitment to Equality

Non-Discrimination: Sandymount Green Medical is committed to providing a service that does not discriminate on the grounds of: 

• Age

• Gender/Gender identity or reassignment

• Marital or civil partnership status 

• Pregnancy or maternity 

• Race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origins) 

• Disability 

• Religion or belief (including philosophical belief) 

• Sexual orientation 

• Socio-economic status 

• Any other characteristic protected by relevant equality legislation 

Access to Services

We ensure that our healthcare services are accessible to all individuals, regardless of their personal circumstances, and take steps to meet the needs of diverse groups. This includes providing reasonable adjustments for patients with disabilities and offering support for patients who may face language barriers or other communication difficulties. 

Fair Treatment of Staff

Sandymount Green Medical is dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment for all employees. We ensure that recruitment, training, and promotion practices are fair, transparent, and based on merit. All staff are expected to treat colleagues, patients, and visitors with respect and dignity. 

Cultural Competence

We promote cultural competence within our practice. Staff are encouraged to respect cultural differences and engage in training to understand the diverse backgrounds and needs of our patients. We ensure that care is provided with sensitivity to different cultural values and practices.

Patient and Staff Feedback

We actively encourage feedback from patients and staff about their experiences and any potential issues related to equality or discrimination. Feedback is reviewed regularly, and necessary actions are taken to address concerns. 

Actions and Responsibilities

Staff Training: All staff will receive regular training on equality and diversity, including unconscious bias, cultural competency, and anti-discrimination practices. This training will be incorporated into the induction process for new employees and refreshed annually. 

Monitoring and Evaluation: We regularly monitor and review our services to ensure they are meeting the needs of all patients and that equality and diversity standards are being upheld. This includes conducting patient surveys, analysing complaints, and assessing staff feedback. 

Reasonable Adjustments: We will make reasonable adjustments where necessary to support patients with disabilities, ensuring they can access our services in a manner that meets their needs. 

Complaint Procedures: If any patient or member of staff feels they have been subject to discrimination, harassment, or inequality, they are encouraged to raise the issue in accordance with our complaints procedure. All complaints will be taken seriously, investigated, and resolved promptly and fairly. 

Confidentiality and Privacy: We are committed to maintaining confidentiality in all aspects of patient care and staff interactions. Personal information will be handled in accordance with data protection legislation and only shared on a need-to-know basis. 

Monitoring Compliance: The practice will regularly assess its adherence to this policy and takes action where needed to ensure compliance with current equality legislation and best practices. We also encourage all members of the team to speak up and report any instances of discrimination, harassment, or inequality. 

Review and Updates: This Equality and Diversity Policy will be reviewed annually and updated as required to reflect changes in legislation, practice needs, and our commitment to equality. 

Conclusion

At Sandymount Green Medical, we are dedicated to creating an environment where all individuals feel valued and respected. We believe that equality and diversity are essential to providing excellent care and a supportive working environment for all.