At our Practice, we believe that every individual who walks through our doors deserves to be treated with the same warmth and professional care, regardless of their background or identity. We are dedicated to fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated and inclusion is the standard. This policy ensures we meet the requirements of the Equality Act 2010 and uphold the core values of NHS Scotland.
Our Commitment to You
We strive to eliminate barriers and provide a welcoming space for all patients, families, and contractors. Our team is committed to:
- Dignity and Respect: Ensuring every visitor is treated with fundamental courtesy and fairness.
- Equal Opportunity: Actively promoting equality between all genders and identities.
- Zero Tolerance: Taking a firm stand against any discrimination, perceived discrimination, or harassment based on age, sex, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or belief.
- Accessible Services: Providing identical treatment, clinical services, and registration opportunities to everyone, irrespective of their medical condition or personal characteristics.
Procedures and Support
If you feel that you have experienced discrimination while visiting us, we want to hear from you. We take these matters seriously and follow a structured process to resolve them:
- Reporting: Please bring the matter to the attention of our Practice Manager as soon as possible.
- Investigation: The Practice Manager will conduct a thorough and confidential investigation into the incident.
- Resolution: We aim to establish the facts and notify you of our findings and any subsequent actions within 14 working days.
- Escalation: If you are dissatisfied with the outcome of the investigation, you may raise a formal grievance through our Practice Complaints Procedure.
For further information on your rights within the NHS, you can visit NHS Inform.
Protecting Our Staff
Just as we protect our patients, we have a duty to protect our team. We do not tolerate any form of discrimination or harassment directed toward our staff.
Any visitor who displays discriminatory behaviour will be asked to leave the premises immediately. If the individual is a registered patient, such behaviour may result in their removal from the Practice list at the discretion of the Practice Management. This ensures a safe working environment for those providing your care.
Useful Resources
- Review the Equality Act 2010 Guidance for more detail on protected characteristics.
- Learn about the NHS Scotland Quality Strategy which informs our approach to person-centred care.