equality and diversity

Question 1

What is equality?

Answer 1

Treating everybody fairly and equally without discrimination based on protected characteristics

Protected characteristics include age, disability, gender, etc.

Question 2

What is diversity?

Answer 2

Taking account of people’s differences and placing a positive value on those differences

Diversity emphasizes recognizing and valuing individual differences.

Question 3

What is the purpose of the Equality Act 2010?

Answer 3

To legally protect people in the workplace and wider society by consolidating anti-discrimination laws into one act

The act makes understanding and compliance easier for organizations.

Question 4

List the protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010.

Answer 4

• Age
• Disability
• Gender
• Marriage and civil partnership
• Pregnancy
• Race
• Religion or belief
• Sex
• Sexual orientation

These characteristics are protected from discrimination in various settings.

Question 5

What is direct discrimination?

Answer 5

Treating someone with a protected characteristic less favourably than others

Direct discrimination is straightforward and visible in many cases.

Question 6

What is indirect discrimination?

Answer 6

Putting arrangements or rules in place that apply to everyone but disadvantage someone with a protected characteristic

Indirect discrimination can be subtle and requires careful examination of policies.

Question 7

Define harassment in the context of equality and diversity.

Answer 7

Unwanted behaviour related to a protected characteristic that violates someone’s dignity or creates an offensive environment

Harassment can take many forms, including verbal and physical actions.

Question 8

What is victimization?

Answer 8

Treating someone unfairly because they have complained about harassment or discrimination

Victimization can discourage individuals from reporting issues.

Question 9

How is the construction sector promoting diversity?

Answer 9

By ensuring recruitment procedures encourage applications from a variety of people and backgrounds

This approach aims to create a fair and inclusive workforce.

Question 10

Why is equality and diversity training important for companies?

Answer 10

To promote understanding and create a more inclusive workplace

Such training is often part of continuous professional development.