Equality, Diversity & Inclusion statement – May 2022

In this statement, we set out publicly our commitment and priorities for action on equality, diversity and inclusion. We define equality, diversity and inclusion in its broadest sense, to include all protected characteristics, social class and carer status.

To succeed at making a positive difference to the lives of all adult and parent carers in Leeds, we know that Carers Leeds must become a more equal, diverse and inclusive employer and service provider.

Our commitment

Our commitment to change is set out in our organisational strategy and ED&I annual action plan. It is also a recognition of things we need to address, which we are determined to do. Our staff and volunteer workforce does not currently represent the diverse community we serve. We could do much more to reach the diverse adult and parent carer population of Leeds. We know we need to ensure that ED&I considerations are truly central to all areas of our work.

We have started our ED&I journey but we know we have some way to go as an organisation. We will be humble. We will listen and learn from the experiences of others. We will be open, and we will invite challenge. We will be honest.

Priorities for action

Our Organisational Strategy and ED&I annual action plan sets out our priorities for action. These actions are underpinned by the following:

Be consistent with our values and behaviours

Listen and learn from the lived experience of staff, volunteers, carers and wider community

Wide staff and volunteer engagement including an ED&I working group and champions

Be data driven – collect and use data from staff, volunteers and carers to inform our actions

Strong leadership at Board, CEO and Senior Management level