Equality and Diversity
Gender Equality
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar acknowledges that discrimination can lead to (if not managed) inequality in access to; jobs, training, development and services. As the major employer and provider of services in the Western Isles, the Comhairle will continue to promote and champion equality for all employees and users of our services.
The Comhairle recognises that important differences can exist between different women and that continued attention will be given to the specific needs of all women.
The Comhairle acknowledges that women can be under-represented in the workforce (at senior levels) if not managed and has made a commitment to seek to redress any imbalance. The contribution of women at all levels is vital and the Comhairle will endeavour to make full use of their skills, experience, knowledge and perspective.
The threat (and use) of social and domestic violence against women can limit choices and aspirations. The effect can be to reduce women’s full participation in everyday life. In accepting its role as an employer and provider of services, the Comhairle will promote public awareness and encourage programmes designed to reduce its incidence.
The Comhairle recognises that women form a significant proportion of our service users and is committed to promoting good practice and removing barriers which may prevent women from making full use of our services.
The Comhairle will continue to:
- take action to ensure that any discriminatory barriers are removed and will monitor, review and evaluate the results of our actions
- work to create equal access to jobs, training, development and services
- recognise that caring and domestic responsibilities are often traditionally held by women. Support the fact that both women and men may need to work flexibly or part-time or take a break to meet their caring responsibilities
- support employees (as far as practicable) to care for others who depend on them in emergency and other situations (whatever their gender)
- create an environment where managers recognise the needs of employees in relation to workplace gender issues, for example, where employees may be isolated in single sex dominated workplaces will ensure the culture is not one of harassment and discrimination
- work in partnership with other organisation to combat sexual harassment and
domestic violence will take preventative action when practical and prosecute if
necessary
Sexual harassment or discrimination will not be tolerated. The Comhairle understands that Transgender issues relate to gender equality.
The Comhairle is committed to complying with the statutory obligations set by the Equal Pay Act (1970), Sex Discrimination Act (1975) (1986), Article 119 of the Treaty of Rom and European Community Legislation and Directives.
