The Concepts of Equality, Diversity and Rights in Health and Social Care

Unit 2 (P1) – the concepts of equality, diversity and rights in health and social care

Equality

Equality is treating everyone equally however at the same time as individuals to obtain their needs and understanding their values or what they may love or distaste. There is an act in place which is the Equality Act of 2010 that ensures no unlawful behaviour occurs which can be due to features a person holds such as race, ethnicity, disability or sexuality. Therefore if this regulation is breached prosecution will be considered. Discrimination could arise in a health care setting because for one person the health care assistant may offer them better care and for the other service user they may be mistreated due to them being from a certain group e.g. vulnerable, people that are attracted to their own gender or people from different cultures. That is why it is vital that all service users obtain the same quality of care.

One of the reasons why equality needs to be aware of is because we can then create fairer place for people to live in. Another reason is that if a service user in a care home was being treated wrongly then it should instantly be challenged.

Benefits of equality

For instance a health care assistant will be able to notice when a service user is being neglected which then they can confront unlawful behaviour to protect their patients. After that they can support and comfort those who have been treated wrongly. Another benefit is that they will meet special requirements for every human being.

Diversity

Diversity is supporting and appreciating the variations of people such as their opportunities, style of living and upbringing. So what makes people diverse? There are several aspects of differences people treasure for instance their sex, race, ethnicity, sexuality or age. This can even include fun suggestions such as what’s their best vacation spot or favourite ice-cream; this is because it still makes people diverse to everyone else.

Diversity is vital that it is aware of because any health care setting should consider the service users differences therefore they will feel appreciated and valued. Consequently if equality and diversity are carried out suitably the patients will be comfortable in their hands whilst they care for them.

Benefits of diversity

By having diversity in society it enables us to learn new facts from one another, for instance their religion or cultural background. For instance in nursery it allows children to compassionate to all types of people, whether that will be disabilities or race. There are schools which promote a diverse environment therefore children are learnt to get along with anyone no matter what differences they hold. Diversity is also beneficial for widening chances for individuals to take on opportunities.