Equality and diversity
Equality is one of the most important factors in modern local government. It is not an option or an add on. It is a central part of the way public services work.
We are committed to the principle of equal opportunities for everyone. We recognise that fair recruitment and selection practices are crucial to delivering equality of opportunity. That means making sure that job applicants are only considered on their ability to do the job.
A positive statement about the Council’s commitment to Equal Opportunities appears in all of our job advertisements.
Our job advertisements also display the “two ticks” disability symbol, which is a recognition by Jobcentre plus to employers who have agreed to meet 5 commitments regarding the recruitment, employment, retention and the career development of disabled people. We have signed up to these 5 commitments. This includes a commitment to interview all applicants with a disability who meet the minimum criteria for a job vacancy and consider them on their abilities. We make every effort when employees become disabled to make sure they stay in employment.
Job vacancies are placed in the widest possible range of centres to ensure that they are accessible for all and encourage applications from all sections of the community. This includes circulation to community associations, clubs, community and voluntary groups and the disability employment advisor at the Job Centre etc in East Staffordshire.
Potential applicants who may have difficulty in completing the standard application form because of a language barrier or disability, should contact Human Resources on (01283) 508577 and we will arrange to provide help.
There is a complaints procedure for any job applicants who consider that they have not been dealt with fairly by the Council’s recruitment and selection procedure.
As part of our commitment to equality of opportunity, we are fully committed to promoting a good and harmonious working environment where employees, service users and customers are treated with respect and dignity and in which no one feels threatened or intimidated for any reason. This is facilitated by our Dignity at Work policy, the aim of which is to prevent harassment and provide guidance to resolve any problems should it occur, and prevent recurrence. Harassment at work in any form is unacceptable behaviour and will not be permitted or condoned.
The Council has a commitment to equalities training for all staff, this is included in the Corporate training plan. New and existing employees are informed of their responsibilities under the Councils equality policies.
We recognise that many employees have demanding and important roles outside work and have introduced flexible working arrangements to enable employees to meet both their personal and professional needs.