The Integrated Care Board (ICB) is developing its approach to equality, diversity and inclusion, in line with the NHS People Plan, the NHS People Promise and the strategic objectives and equality, diversity and inclusion plan for the Integrated Care System (ICS).
Once formed, the ICB will embed inclusion as one of the key principles that runs through everything we do.
We have already begun this journey through the creation of staff network groups, which will help to provide a safe space for colleagues from under represented groups, as well as developing allies for these groups.
In addition, our staff survey results for 2021/22 have told us that we need to focus on equality, diversity and inclusion and we are engaging with our staff to seek their views on what this could and should look like.
We want to create a working environment where colleagues feel comfortable and empowered to bring their whole selves to work, as we believe that is how our workforce can deliver their very best to the population that we serve.
Find out more about work happening across the Mid and South Essex Integrated Care System to tackle health inequalities.
Interim Equality ObjectivesEquality Delivery System
The Equality Delivery System 2022 (EDS22) is a framework designed to help NHS organisations improve their services for local communities and create better working environments free from discrimination. It aligns with the Equality Act 2010 and supports the NHS’s commitment to inclusivity and fairness.
Equality Delivery System 2022 Report for 2023/24 Equality Delivery System Report 2022Workforce Race Equality Scheme (WRES)
The Workforce Race Equality Standard (WRES) is an NHS initiative aimed at addressing race inequalities in the workplace. The WRES includes nine specific metrics that compare the experiences of Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) staff to those of white staff within NHS organisations
We use the data from these metrics to develop action plans to address disparities and promote race equality.
The WRES aims to improve representation, career progression, and workplace experiences for BAME staff, ensuring a more inclusive and equitable working environment.
Workforce Disability Equality Standard (WDES)
The Workforce Disability Equality Standard (WDES) is an initiative by NHS England aimed at improving the workplace and career experiences of disabled staff within the NHS. The WDES consists of ten specific measures that allow NHS organisations to compare the experiences of disabled and non-disabled staff
We use the data from these metrics to develop and publish action plans aimed at addressing disparities and promoting disability equality
The WDES aims to create a more inclusive environment, improve retention, recruit from a wider talent pool, and provide sustainable careers for disabled staff.
Accessible Information Standard
The Accessible Information Standard (AIS) ensures that people with disabilities, impairments, or sensory losses receive information in formats they can understand and any communication support they need from health and care services.