Equal Opportunities Introduction

 

Introduction

As a major employer and service provider within the community, the Vale of Glamorgan Council has a part to play in reducing the disadvantages experienced by certain groups. We need to create a workforce that is truly representative of the community it serves.

 

The Vale of Glamorgan Council is committed to eliminating discrimination and removing barriers to employment, information, services, premises and facilities. We embrace equality of opportunity irrespective of disability, ethnic origin, colour, nationality, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, culture and religion.

 

The Council therefore recognises the need for an Equal Opportunities policy and is keen to achieve genuine equality of opportunities by ensuring that:

 

  • when employment decisions are made, the only personal characteristics taken into account are those which, as well as being consistent with relevant legislation, are necessary for the proper performance of the job concerned;
  • when an employment decision is made about someone, the decision is based solely upon an objective assessment of the capability and suitableness of that person, and not on any generalised concepts about the characteristics of categories or groups of people;
  • any disadvantaged groups in society are encouraged and assisted to achieve a position from which equality of opportunity can operate.

 

We review selection criteria and procedures frequently to make sure that people are selected, promoted and treated on the basis of their relevant merits and abilities.

 

We wholeheartedly accept the statutory requirements laid down in the Race Relations Act 1976, the Race Relations (Amendment) Act 2000, Sex Discrimination Act 1975, Equal Pay Act 1970 and Disability Discrimination Act 1995, which makes it unlawful for an employer or provider of services to treat an individual differently on the grounds of colour, ethnic origin, sex, marital status or disability.

 

We also extend the same principal to people irrespective of their sexuality religion, belief or age under the Employment and Race Directives. The Council will not discriminate on the grounds of a possession of a criminal record (except where strictly relevant); and aim to meet all other obligations under European legislation.

 

The Vale of Glamorgan Council welcomes applications from men and women from all ethnic groups irrespective of marital status, religious beliefs, sexual orientation or age. Disabled people are positively encouraged to apply for posts.