Staff intranet

Equality, diversity and inclusion

How we are addressing inequalities and creating an inclusive and fair workplace culture.

The Council Plan commits to putting public health at the heart of everything we do and to addressing inequalities. This includes fostering an inclusive and fair workplace culture, where every individual, regardless of their background, identity or characteristics feels valued and respected. 

Equality, diversity and inclusion contributes to these priorities by setting out how we will work towards improving outcomes for the following ‘protected characteristics’ as required in the Equality Act (2010):

  • race
  • sex
  • gender reassignment
  • sexual orientation
  • age
  • disability
  • religion and belief
  • marital status
  • pregnancy and maternity

To this list we have voluntarily adopted Care Experience and Armed Forces Experience to be treated as protected characteristics. We want to create a culture and environment that welcomes all staff, recognises their diversity of needs and encourages them to be themselves at work.  We will listen, value and invest in developing people and talent, and break down any stigma to make individuals feel valued, supported and understood.

Employee network groups

We have several employee network groups which represent the diverse nature of our workforce.
These groups provide peer support and give staff the opportunity to influence decisions on issues affecting them.  Current groups include:

  • PRIDE at Cumberland (LGBT+)
  • Shine (Disability group)
  • Race Equality Network
  • Carers Support Network
  • Age Inclusive (including the 50+ agenda)

You can learn more by accessing our core essential learning, which has been designed to promote understanding and awareness so that we can promote healthy workplaces that are welcoming for all.

Email us at: employeenetworkgroups@cumberland.gov.uk