Diversity, Inclusion and Teamworking

Question 1

What is unconscious bias?

Answer 1

Social stereotypes about certain groups of people that individuals form outside their own conscious awareness. Usually formed from the environment or experiences of the individual.

Question 2

What are the 9 protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010?

Answer 2

• Age
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Marriage and civil partnerships
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Race
• Religion
• Sex
• Sexual orientation

Question 3

What is discrimination?

Answer 3

Treating a person unfairly because of who they are or because they possess certain characteristics. There are four main types:

• Direct discrimination
• Indirect discrimination
• Harassment
• Victimisation

Question 4

What are the main benefits of Diversity and Inclusion?

Answer 4

• Attract skilled professionals from diverse backgrounds.
• Establishes a sense of belonging among employees.
• Encourages employees to feel more connected.
• Increases productivity.
• Reduces staff turnover.
• Valued and accepted.

Question 5

What is the RICS doing to improve Diversity and Inclusion?

Answer 5

RICS has setup ‘Diversity and Inclusion leadership’ which is a knowledge hub. Have a DEI strategy that provides ways that firms can encourage DEI.

D&I is also written into the 5 Rules of Conduct.

Question 6

What is the purpose of the Equality Act 2010?

Answer 6

Legally protects people from discrimination in the workplace and in wider society. Legal duty was imposed on public authorities.

Question 7

How would you define Equality?

Answer 7

The action of ensuring individuals and groups are treated fairly and equally. This involves taking into account the different experiences and needs of all, particularly in relation to protected characteristics.

Question 8

How would you define Diversity?

Answer 8

The ways in which we all differ including (but not limited to) our race, ethnicity, religion, beliefs, physical attributes, disabilities, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, socio-economic background, life experiences, skills and the way we think and do things.

Question 9

How would you define Inclusion?

Answer 9

The action of embracing these differences. Inclusion is about valuing and harnessing people’s unique backgrounds, talents, perspectives and insights for the benefit of individuals and the organisation.

Question 10

What are the guiding principles of the Inclusive Employer Quality Mark?

Answer 10

Leadership
Recruitment
Culture
Development

Question 11

What actions is your firm taking to tackle D&I?

Answer 11

• Increased D&I objectives and advocacy.
• Mentoring and development schemes.
• Legislation to allow flexible working in the Armed Forces.
• Re-invigoration of staff networks and role of champions.
• Diversity recruitment targets.
• Communication campaigns.

Question 12

What are some MOD Diversity Networks?

Answer 12

• Race Networks
• Disability Networks
• Gender Networks
• LGBT Networks
• Age Networks
• Mental Health Networks

Examples of these have included discussions on social mobility encouraging colleagues to discuss their experiences and have open conversations. Groups around baby loss and menopause. Roll out of sunflower lanyard for Skype pictures to demonstrate invisible disabilities.