Combined Equality Scheme

Introduction to the Combined Equality Scheme

The Dorset Police Combined Equality Scheme (CES) is a strategic document, which has been developed as our response to the requirements of the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000, the Disability Discrimination Act 2005 and the Equality Act 2006, which also further strengthens the requirements of The Equal Pay Act 1970 and The Sex Discrimination Act 1975.

In addition we have developed the Scheme further to incorporate the equality requirements of the Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006, Sex Discrimination (Gender Reassignment) Regulations 1999, Gender Recognition Act 2004, Employment Equality (Religion and Belief) Regulations 2004 and the Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations.

Why do we need a Combined Equality Scheme?

The Race, Disability and Gender Equality Duties require public bodies such as Dorset Police to have ‘due regard’ to the need to eliminate discrimination and promote equality. There are many similarities in the requirements under each of these equality duties and as such the force made a decision that a Combined Equality Scheme would be developed.

In addition we have developed our Scheme to reflect the equality requirements in age, religion or belief and sexual orientation.

Combined Equality Scheme:

Our Combined Equality Scheme is an important part of our overall strategy to provide the highest quality of service to our communities, where they are safe and feel safe. We have clear strong Values to guide us in that endeavour:

Integrity

We are honest, trustworthy and genuinely accountable.

Professionalism

We are committed to excellence and delivering the highest quality of service.

Fairness

We act impartially, treating all according to their needs.

Respect

We treat all with dignity and value difference.

We are also committed to valuing and supporting our staff. Our staff expect to be:

Professional - in everything they do.
Motivated - to do their best.
Supported - in their work.
Respected - for what they do.
Valued - for the difference that they make.

We know because we asked them.

This scheme sets out the steps we will take to positively promote equality and discrimination.

Follow this link to access the full version of the Force Combined Equality Scheme 2009 – 2012 (584kb PDF) >

If you would like us to send you a hard copy, or would like to comment on the Scheme please contact the Community Engagement Department via our online Contact Form or alternatively write to us at:

Community Engagement Department,
Dorset Police Headquarters,
Winfrith,
Dorchester,
Dorset DT2 8DZ