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...of skills and experience. Such a policy also results in a more stable work-force which retains the best people by ensuring their needs are fully met, and an improved reputation for the organisation through higher ethical standards.

HR managers should be aware of existing and new legislation impinging on equal opportunities. The main Acts (as amended) include the Equal Pay Act 1970, the Sex Discrimination Act 1975, the Race Relations Act 1976, and the Disability Discrimination Act 1995. In addition, various employment, employment rights, employment relations, human rights, pensions, health and safety acts, subsidiary regulations and EU Directives should be taken into account. Recent legislation includes the Civil Partnership Act 2004. Age discrimination legislation is due in October 2006 and the Equality Bill will provide protection against discrimination on grounds of sexual orientation from April 2007.

National Occupational Standards for Management and Leadership

This checklist has relevance for the following standards: B: Providing direction, units 8, 11, 12

Definition

An equal opportunities policy is a statement of organisational procedures and practices which provide genuine equality of opportunity for all employees, regardless of gender, age, ethnic origin, marriage, religion, or disability. Its remit goes beyond strict compliance with the law and ensures the effective use of all human resources within the organisation. Such a policy should focus on preventing discriminatory or harassing behaviour in the workplace and achieving equal access...

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More articles from Chartered Management Institute: Checklists: Human Resources, Training and Development
Selecting a video or DVD for use in training.(Checklist 024), June 01, 2006
Codes of ethics.(Checklist 028), June 01, 2006
Using psychometric tests.(for employee selection), June 01, 2006
Using a video or DVD in a training session.(Checklist 076), June 01, 2006
Setting up a suggestion scheme.(Checklist 071), May 01, 2006

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