Equality is about ensuring that every individual has an equal opportunity to make the most of their lives and talents. It is also the belief that no one should have poorer life chances because of the way they were born, where they come from, what they believe, or whether they have a disability. Equality recognises that historically certain groups of people with protected characteristics such as race, disability, sex and sexual orientation have experienced discrimination.
Diversity is all the visible and non-visible ways in which we differ. This includes the categories protected by law (age, disability, gender identity, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation), as well as socio-economic background and ways of thinking.
Inclusion is about integrating diversity in what we do. It means being treated fairly and with respect, and having a voice in decision-making. It's about feeling both valued for your uniqueness and also a sense of belonging.
Equity is about giving people what they need, in order to make things fair. This is not the same as equality or inequality. It is supporting those who need it in a way that is proportionate to their circumstances. We would do this to ensure that everyone has the same opportunities.
There's great glossary resources to help you learn the terms associated with each characteristic:
Characteristic
