Pwcs 23

PWCS 23: Principles of diversity, equality and inclusion in adult social care settings

1.1 Define what is meant by:

- Diversity is about the acknowledgement and the respect of the differences between the people on all of their variety. It‘s about the uniqueness of every each individual and the way he/she contribute for the richness of our society.

- Equality. Despite our differences we are equal in front of the society and to each other. This means that everyone deserves to have the freedom to do what he/she wants, to be protected from discrimination, and to get the same chance like everyone else.

- Inclusion. People can feel included only if they feel that this is their place not because someone says so, but because of who they are. They feel respected and free to participate and realize themselves without fear of disapproval or sanction.

- Discrimination is the result of unequal or excluding behaviour. It can be on the ground of age, gender, race, sex orientation, religion, culture, disability, etc.

1.2 Describe how direct or indirect discrimination may occur in the work setting. Direct discrimination is when something (promotion, money, education, etc.) is refused to a person. For example, if a woman is refused a job as a security guard only on basis of her gender.
With the indirect discrimination the previously mentioned things are allowed, but with specific conditions that exclude unwanted people. For example, a company will employ woman for security guard, but only if she agrees to not get pregnant for the time of the contract.

1.3 Explain how practices that support diversity, equality and inclusion reduce the likelihood of discrimination. Often in our everyday life we think with the help of stereotypes like „The old people are slow or fragile; The dogs are aggressive and dangerous; The women are weaker than the men; The Muslim are terrorists“ and so on. These stereotypes are result of our education, family background, the TV and books, our referent groups. Using stereotypes we don‘t waste time and energy to get to know each person we meet – we just put him/her in some category and go on. But this way we are bound to make mistakes, because this way we deny ourselves the opportunity to see the different shades of the world. The purpose of the practices that support diversity, equality and inclusion is to intensify our awareness about the people around us, to see their unique shades and judge them for who they are. This way these practices strike directly at the discrimination. Knowing someone you can still don‘t like him/her, but you won‘t like his/hers personal qualities. In the same time if the people spend some time to get to know the person in front of them, there is big possibility to like and accept them.

2.1 List key legislation and codes of practice relating to diversity, equality, inclusion and discrimination in adult social care settings

- Equality Act - Human Rights Act. - Essential Standards - GSCC Code of Practice

2.2 Describe how to interact with individuals in an inclusive way. To be able to include people I need to be interested in their individuality and viewpoint and respect them. When I listen to them I need to take their opinion seriously and openly. I need to encourage them to participate and take their own decisions for their daily life.

2.3 Describe ways in which discrimination may be challenged in adult social care settings. First of all there should be zero tolerance towards discrimination. The best way to fight it is providing training and information to the people; teaching them how to recognise discrimination and how to prevent it. This way they will be able to defend themselves and their family and friends. If discrimination occurs immediate actions should be taken – the discrimination should be reported to authorized people and accurately recorded in case if proof is needed.

3.1 Identify sources of information, advice and support about diversity, equality, inclusion and discrimination.

- Line manager or senior colleague - The agency codes of practice, policies and procedures - Individual themselves - Specialists and organisations - Charities

3.2 Describe how and when to access information, advice and support about diversity, equality, inclusion and discrimination. I need to seek for information whenever I think I have difficulties in promoting equality and inclusion or if I‘m unclear how should I act in given situation. For example, if I give chocolate to one of my clients, but refuse it to another, because his diet doesn‘t allow it and he is complaining that I discriminate him, because he is black or old. In this kind of situations is good if I‘m able to get information. Other reason could be if my client or colleague is interested in this matter, I should be able to help them with information and support. There is many ways of getting information – I can ask for advice my line manager or supervisor or ask for support individuals and organisations. First of all I need to be acquainted with the policies and procedures in my workplace and I need to attend courses and trainings, so I be prepared for my work as a carer.