As an employer, it is becoming increasingly essential to implement equality and diversity training in order to promote equal treatment and mutual respect among different groups of people. This training is most often offered through an employer or trade union, but can also be offered through various other groups, organisations and committees. Training is a good way of creating harmony amongst the workforce because it helps employees to understand how their actions and words can impact on others. All employees should be included in this training.

Equality is defined as the equal treatment of all member of the community or workforce. On the other hand, diversity has taken on a number of meanings, it retains the principal of offering opportunities to all individuals within a sector or community. The reasons for training can range from concerns over sexual harassment and other discriminatory behaviours to increasing an organisation’s ability to reach a previously inaccessible market segment.

Through education, equality and diversity training can create a greater awareness of other people’s points of view and promote tolerance and unity. This includes a better understanding and respect for different cultures, which is especially beneficial for organisations and companies associating with foreign clients.

A diversity training program specifically designed to educate individuals on the different aspects of a particular culture can help those individuals avoid inadvertently disrespecting foreign clients through an ignorance of cultural etiquette. Having training programs in place provides a safe haven for employees to voice any concerns they may have. Employees are made aware of how to recognise potential problems and how they can go about reporting harassment and bullying. On another level, managers and supervisors are trained how to handle cases reported to them in the correct manor.

This type of training is an ongoing process and should be broken down into manageable segments. The training requirements may vary depending on who it is aimed at, the inclusion of role play can help create a better understanding. A comprehensive training program should include training for everyday communication as well as conflict resolution policies and plans.

This type of training covers sensitive issues and can be subject to legal implications. Because of these reasons, the training is usually carried out by specialists who are detached from the employees and organisation. Training facilitators may be outsourced or the alternative is to train an individual within the company who can then carry out the training requirements. In some instances, an HR manager would be expected to carry out equality and diversity training. To make sure that all employees understand what is required, the employer may make the training compulsory.

360 diversity is a tool which aids UK organisations in effectively managing diversity in the workplace. For further information visit www.360diversity.com.