Diversity,
Equality &
Inclusion
Diversity, Equality & Inclusion
The Difference Collective values diversity and the contribution each member makes. We are committed to promoting equity, diversity and inclusion in the way we connect, collaborate and work with our members, clients, suppliers and industry peers.
1. The Difference Collective's commitment
We believe in treating everyone equally and with the same attention, courtesy and respect regardless of age, disability, gender, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, sexual orientation, religion or belief.
With people at the core of our business, our commitment extends further to promote an environment that is inclusive and free from all forms of discrimination and one that values the diversity of its people, who will be treated equally, fairly and with dignity and respect.
We take every practical and reasonable step to ensure that no member of The Difference Collective (including applicants) nor colleagues from third-party organisations (clients, suppliers, partners and other industry organisations) will receive less favourable treatment or be disadvantaged by requirements or conditions that cannot be shown to be justifiable.
We will use our voices to encourage inclusivity and representation within healthcare communications and to support marginalised people’s work. We make every effort to procure from and work with small and diversely owned businesses.
We expect our members and suppliers to adopt inclusive and transparent practices.
2. Diversity, Equality and Inclusion in practice
The Difference Collective will avoid unlawful discrimination in all aspects of recruitment, training, and the provision of work opportunities.
Recruitment and selection
The Difference Collective’s approach to recruiting and selecting talent focuses on encouraging candidates of the highest calibre and integrity with the appropriate skills and personal qualities to apply to join The Difference Collective. Being a virtual organisation, the interview process is conducted remotely and all applicants are assessed using the same framework and criteria and treated fairly and respectfully.
Training and Networking
The Difference Collective communicates networking and training opportunities open to all members.
Opportunities for Work
All work opportunities are evaluated based on scope, client expectations, confidentiality and history, geography, timelines and workload.
In some cases, due to client conflict, sensitivities or deadlines, the brief may be shared with a targeted sub-group of our members.
Opportunities suitable for wide communication with all members are shared on our Basecamp platform, where members can then put themselves forward to work on the opportunity. Members will be asked to demonstrate the right fit for the client brief, project or requirements based on their previous experience, skills and qualifications.
3. Expectations of our members
Our members are expected to support The Difference Collective in meeting its commitment by promoting diversity, equality and inclusion and treating everyone with fairness, equity, dignity and respect, as well as being aware of and sensitive to any behaviours or actions that might be construed as discriminatory or harassing in any way.
We expect that everyone who is part of The Difference Collective conducts themselves in an appropriate manner, which can be characterised by:
● treating others with dignity, trust and respect
● having an awareness of the effects our behaviour may have on others
● working collaboratively to achieve objectives
● communicating openly and honestly, clearly stating what we mean and what we expect of others
● speaking up if we experience or witness negative, discriminatory or disrespectful behaviours directed towards others
All members of The Difference Collective must respect the provisions of the Anti-harassment and Bullying Policy and ensure compliance with it when undertaking their work or representing the Collect
4. Complaints of discrimination
The Difference Collective will investigate any complaints of discrimination made by members, clients or other third parties and take appropriate action.
