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Equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that everyone is entitled to respect and dignity and we are committed to building an environment where our employees, customers, contractors and visitors are treated in this way.

Our commitment

At Riverside, we are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI). This commitment is led by our Board and applies to everyone we work with, including customers, colleagues, contractors, volunteers and partners.

Everyone deserves to be treated with respect and dignity. We work to create safe, welcoming environments where people feel valued and free from discrimination, harassment and bullying.

Our aim is to make sure equality, diversity and inclusion are part of everything we do.

How we do this

We work to:

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We also involve customers and colleagues in shaping and improving our services so they work for everyone.

What equality means

Equality means treating people fairly and giving everyone the same chance to succeed. It also means recognising individual needs and making reasonable adjustments wherever we can.

We want everyone who uses our services or works with us to have equal access to information, support and opportunities.

What diversity means

People have different backgrounds, skills, identities and experiences. We value these differences and believe they help us build stronger communities and better services.

We aim to deliver services that meet the needs of all parts of the community and to create a workforce that reflects the people we serve.

What inclusion means

Inclusion is about taking action to make sure everyone feels welcome, respected and able to reach their full potential.

We create inclusive environments by listening, learning and making changes where needed. We also give customers and colleagues different ways to share their views and get involved.

Who this applies to

We welcome and respect people regardless of their:

  • Age
  • Disability
  • Sex
  • Gender reassignment
  • Race
  • Sexual orientation
  • Religion or belief
  • Marriage or civil partnership
  • Pregnancy or maternity

These are known as protected characteristics and are protected by the Equality Act 2010.

Our colleague networks

We work closely with colleague-led networks to help keep EDI at the heart of our work:

EMpower

For our ethnically diverse colleagues

EMpower supports colleagues from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds. The group helps shape our policies, culture and decisions so everyone feels valued and heard.

Pride

For LGBTQIA+ colleagues and allies

Pride creates a safe and welcoming space where people can be themselves at work. The group supports inclusion, raises awareness and helps drive positive change.

Enable

For colleagues with a disability, long-term health condition or mental health needs

Enable focuses on removing barriers at work and improving access, support and understanding for all colleagues.

Our impact

Making a difference together

With the support of our colleague networks, we have been named a Stonewall Top 100 Employer for the last seven years and are a Disability Confident Employer.

Related policies and reports

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy Gender Identity and Trans Inclusion Policy Pay Gap Reports Inclusion in practice