LOC Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Report Published
16 December 2022
The results of a research project into Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) within LOCs have been published.
Recognising the role of LOCs in representing local sectors, the importance the NHS places on EDI and in response to requests from LOC members the project was led by LOC member Farah Awan, BOptom, MCOptom, MPA and carried out earlier this year.
More than two hundred LOC members engaged in compiling evidence underpinning the report, testament to the importance and value LOC members place in EDI.
At this year’s NOC the interest and support for EDI was further demonstrated by the fully subscribed EDI workshop and a packed auditorium for a key speaker address from Professor Anton Emmanuel from the NHS Workforce Race Equality Standard programme (WRES).
The report found that an overwhelming majority of LOC members say they have not experienced barriers to joining their LOC and they feel empowered to contribute to discussions. The fact that all respondents feel their opinions and thoughts are respected and listened to during dialogue with LOC colleagues is also very positive.
Despite the positive findings, there are some areas of concern.
It is concerning that over one-fifth of LOC members do not believe their committee to be representative of local contractors and performers, and one-quarter of LOC members do not consider that their LOC is representative of the local population.
The report explores various issues and suggests some recommendations for LOC consideration.
Richard Knight, LOCSU Head of Policy said:
‘The engagement of LOC members with this EDI research project shows the importance that LOCs place in this topic. It is very positive to see just how much EDI is already embedded in LOC thinking. However, there are some areas of concern, and the report makes several recommendations to LOCs for consideration to ensure that LOCs continue to foster EDI at the heart of their representation and support roles.’