NVQ4

Equality in the UK is about fostering and promoting rights- to be different, to be free from discrimination, to have choice and dignity and to be valued as individuals with their own set of beliefs and values.
Diversity means a variety, contrast, difference or mixture. It is the range of differences in our world – the different races, cultures, beliefs, languages, abilities etc.
Why a diverse workplace is important
An organisation with a diverse workforce can offer a wide range of resources, skills, ideas and energy to a business, providing a competitive edge. Organisations who embrace diversity will reap the benefits of employing staff from a wider pool of talent by being able to improve productivity and raise their profile in the community.
‘Diversity management’ (actively encouraging a diverse workforce) and promoting ‘equality of opportunity’ (fostering a culture where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential) can benefit an organisation in a number of ways, such as:
Improving opportunities within the organisation through internal promotion
Utilising the knowledge of different areas of the community
Understanding market segments and consumer behaviour
Becoming an employer of choice
Having a more representative ‘balanced’ workforce
Valuing and respecting employees, attracting recruiting and retaining a wider talent pool
Diversity can deliver other positive outcomes and benefits, such as:
Improved retentions and progression of employees
As an inclusive, vibrant, nurturing environment for work
Staff having a better appreciation and respect for difference
A more comprehensive understanding of needs and wants of the staff
Improved team productivity and success by encouraging contrasting perspectives
Improved staff morale and increased motivation
Improved standards of delivery
Managing diversity is concerned with improving quality within an organisation. This might include increasing the number of women in management