Equality and diversity objectives

1. Better health outcomes for all

UHB aims to broaden our engagement and involvement with community groups and groups that represent people with additional needs (for example SENSE). This will enable us to gather data, information and views on the way services need adapting to best meet the needs of particular sections of our communities. We will focus specifically, but not exclusively, on how we communicate to ensure equal access to all. Additionally we commit to feedback to our communities in a format that is clear, accessible and easy to understand.

2. Improved patient access and experience

UHB aims to ensure our workforce understands how to better meet the particular needs of sections of our population by reflecting cultural and spiritual identity to deliver more informed, appropriate and sensitive care. We also aim to ensure appropriate communication methods are assessed as soon as possible and are utilised and never ignored. We also aim to develop a healing environment which will aid and improve recovery and rehabilitation.

3. Empowered, engaged and well supported staff

UHB aims to introduce "staff focus care groups" to involve staff and use their expertise in producing materials that will be available as a resource for all staff.

The groups will provide an opportunity to challenge out-of-date views and practices, plus help to improve our communication with groups and individuals and generally make our individualised care packages fit for purpose. These groups can also be a forum for staff to raise issues that can be addressed via the health and well-being at work programme.

4. Inclusive leadership at all levels

UHB is set to revise the existing leadership strategy to ensure it reflects the needs of our workforce and allows for a route to employment that can deliver a workforce at all levels that is representative of our local community. The strategy will reflect the recommendations of the Francis Report in relation to support for staff.