NHS
Somerset recognises the diversity of the population of Somerset and is committed to ensuring that healthcare
services reflect the needs of all patients. To meet our statutory
and moral duties, NHS Somerset has developed the Equality and Diversity Strategy
based on the Equality Delivery System. The Equality and Diversity Strategy explains to
staff and the public the steps that have been taken to implement the Equality
Delivery System (EDS) followed by the objectives (section 5) and actions
(appendix 1) that have been identified for the future. The Equality and Diversity Strategy is based
on the EDS framework and will replace
the Primary Care Trust’s previous Single Equality Scheme.
What is the Equality Delivery System (EDS)?
The EDS was designed
by patients and NHS staff to deliver better outcomes for patients and
communities. It will also foster better
working environments for staff, which are personal, fair and diverse. It is a
tool that has enabled NHS Somerset, through engagement with patients, staff and
the public, to review its equality performance and assess how well embedded
equality, diversity and human rights are within our systems and processes and
to identify future priorities for action. This will help NHS Somerset to start the analysis that is required by section
149 of the Equality Act 2010 (the public sector Equality Duty).
It is based around four goals:
-
Better health outcomes for all
-
Improved patient access and experience
-
Empowered, engaged and well-supported staff
-
Inclusive leadership at all levels
The options on the right contain further information, the EDS Process page has a step by step guide of how we implemented the EDS and developed our Equality and Diversity Strategy.
More Information
For more information on the Equality Delivery System, click here NHS EDS
To find out more about our provider organisations and their work on the EDS, please click on the following links:
If you have any questions about the EDS or if you would like to get involved, please contact Catherine Brennan on 01935 381999 or email: catherine.brennan@somerset.nhs.uk
All information is available in alternatives formats, please contact Catherine Brennan on 01935 381999 or Catherine.brennan@somerset.nhs.uk
