Equality, Inclusion and Human Rights

Equality, Inclusion and Human Rights are central to the work of NHS Milton Keynes CCG. The CCG understands that equality is about ensuring that every individual has an equal opportunity to make the most of their lives and talents, and believing that no one should have poorer life chances because of where, what or whom they were born, what they believe, or whether they have a disability. Equality recognises that historically, certain groups of people with particular characteristics e.g. race, disability, sex and sexuality, have experienced discrimination.  There are nine protected characteristics:

• Age
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Marriage and civil partnership
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Race
• Religion and belief
• Sex
• Sexual orientation

NHS Milton Keynes CCG Equality Objectives:

1. Ensuring the Accessible Information Standard is fully implemented across the health and social care landscape in Milton Keynes

2. Integrating equality into the CCGs commissioning and procurement processes to ensure services are provided and outcomes are measured in line with the requirements of the Equality Act 2010

3. Improving how the CCG Board and senior leaders routinely demonstrate their commitment to promoting equality, and;

4. Moving the CCG towards “a dialogue of equals”, empowering seldom heard groups to participate in CCG decision making activity.

What this means for NHS Milton Keynes CCG

Locally, we have an Equality Strategy 2016-2020 and have produced an Equality Delivery System to help identify local equality objectives. Mainstreaming equality and diversity into all aspects of our business will be a key enabler in achieving overall success. The CCG has in place an effective engagement strategy aligned to the equality and diversity agenda. Plans to ensure clear internal and external messages in all communications including staff training, recruitment advertising, commissioning, procurement and policy will also be developed.