Diversity and Inclusion

Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust > Our Trust > About Us > Diversity and Inclusion

Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust is an integrated care organisation. We are dedicated to improving the lives of local people, to maintaining an outstanding reputation for teaching and education, and to embedding innovation and research.

The Trust is committed to achieving equality and inclusivity both as an employer and as a provider of services. We are determined to ensure that our policies and practices meet the needs of all service users as well as those of our 7,000 staff.

Why is Equality, Diversity and Inclusion so important?

Equality matters! Everyone has the right to be treated fairly and have equal access to opportunities to fulfil their potential. Legally we are required to root out and eradicate discrimination and promote equality. The Trust has policies in place to back up our services such as, the Dignity at Work Policy, Equal Opportunities Policy, and many others to help make our service better for everyone. We offer a range of resources and services, available to everyone.

Is it relevant to me?

Yes. Equality and diversity is relevant to everyone. You are affected on a personal level, the way we behave and communicate with others, in a social environment, or in a personal situation are influenced by our beliefs, background and perceptions of living in a multi-cultural society.

Every employee has the responsibility to:

• Not unlawfully discriminate in any practice/process
• Draw to the attention of senior managers suspected discriminatory acts or practices
• Co-operate with measures introduced to ensure equality of opportunity and non-discrimination
• Refrain from harassment or intimidation of others and refrain from victimising anyone who have made allegations or complaints of discrimination    or who have provided information about such discrimination.

Nine Protected Characteristics

Everyone fits into one or more of the nine protected characteristics, and should not be discriminated or discriminate against anyone based on where they fit into the characteristics.

• Age
• Sex
• Disability
• Ethnicity
• Religion or beliefs
• Sexual orientation
• Marriage and Civil Partnership
• Gender resignment
• Pregnancy and maternity

Contact the Diversity and Inclusion team below: 

Telephone: 0121 507 5561
Email: swb-tr.SWBH-GM-EqualityDiversity@nhs.net
Twitter @SWBHInclusion