Equality, diversity and inclusion

Our commitment

At Devon Partnership NHS Trust, we are committed to treating everyone fairly, being inclusive and valuing the diversity of everyone we work with and support.

We believe equality and inclusion should be part of everything we do - not just because the law says so, but because it's the right thing to do. Everyone who uses our services or works with us should feel safe, respected and supported to be themselves.

We were an early adopter of the Race Equality Code and, in 2023, successfully achieved the Quality Watermark. A Race Action Plan was provided to the Trust alongside the Watermark, and we continue to ensure that all actions within the Race Equality Code are considered and implemented.

By listening to a wide range of voices and welcoming different experiences, we can give better care and create a more positive place to work.

We are working to ensure our services are accessible and welcoming to people from all backgrounds. That includes recognising and responding to individual characteristics such as:

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

Recognising individual needs

We understand that personal situations such as being a carer, speaking another language, or working different hours can affect how people access and experience care and work. We take these things into account too.

We have seven well-established staff networks, where colleagues come together in safe, welcoming, peer-led spaces. These networks provide insight, support and guidance that help us improve our workplace culture and the experiences of both staff and patients.

We want all our staff to feel confident speaking up against unfair treatment and to help build an inclusive culture where everyone feels they belong. Understanding and respecting each other helps us all work better together.

Everyone - whether a colleague, patient, visitor, carer or member of the public - has a role in promoting fairness and inclusion and standing up to discrimination. When we work together, we make our Trust a kinder, safer and more respectful place for all.

Treating people equally doesn't mean treating everyone the same. It means making sure everyone has the right support and opportunities based on their individual needs.

If you have any questions about equality, diversity and inclusion at our Trust, please contact our EDI Team at dpn-tr.equality@nhs.net