Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

At Benenden Hospital, we know that a diverse workforce is critical in supporting the excellent patient services we provide. As a healthcare provider, we are committed to caring for all and providing equitable opportunities.

Inclusion is at the forefront of every decision we make, every service we deliver, and embedded within our employee journey. We know continuing to nurture inclusivity and belonging for both employees and patients will ensure we stay connected, caring, smart and brave.

Equality Act 2010 Positive Action in recruitment and selection

Under s.158 of the Equality Act 2010, it is lawful for an employer to take action to compensate for disadvantages that it reasonably believes are faced by people who share a particular protected characteristic.

Under s.159 of the Equality Act 2010, positive action can be legally applied in recruitment and promotion to support those who share a protected characteristic. Here are the nine protected characteristics in no particular order:

1. Age
2. Disability
3. Gender reassignment
4. Marriage and civil partnership
5. Pregnancy and maternity
6. Race
7. Religion or belief
8. Sex
9. Sexual orientation

Positive Action in recruitment and selection is lawful when applied in the following circumstances:

• To overcome a disadvantage connected to a person’s protected characteristic
• To meet the needs of those who share a protected characteristic where those needs are different to those of people who do not have the characteristic
• Is applied when a protected characteristic is underrepresented within the work force

At Benenden Hospital, this means we encourage those people to apply for work and can provide training and reasonable adjustments to help them in their line of work.

However, Positive Action does not mean that our hospital can appoint a less suitable candidate just because they have a protected characteristic that is under-represented or disadvantaged.

If you would like to discuss in confidence any particular concern or requirement you have in relation to our recruitment and selection process, especially if this is in relation to a protected characteristic, please contact our HR Manager, Debbie Woodward at debbie.woodward@benenden.org.uk.