P1. Explain the concepts of equality, diversity and rights in relation to health and social care. Equality Equality in all aspects of society has become an important focus to ensure that all members of civilisation has equal rights and opportunities. Under the Equality Act 2010, by law all organisations must have an equal opportunities policy available to every employee and serviced user to protect them from discrimination in the workplace and wider society. This is to ensure that all employees and service users have to same, fair choices and opportunities. In a health and social care setting, according to the Equality Act 2010 and Equal Opportunities policy, all individuals must receive the same high quality service irrespective of age, race, gender, religious beliefs or sexual orientation. Diversity The term “diversity” is used to describe the differences between individuals, groups of people and communities. These can be along the dimensions of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs or political viewpoints. In its positive sense, “diversity” means that all individuals are respected and valued regardless of their differences. Health and social care professionals need to be aware of the service user’s differences and ensure that they do not obstruct the way that they are cared for by the health and social care service. Rights All individuals possess basic human rights, and not under circumstances should they be restricted or removed. In turn, all individuals have a responsibility to respect everyone’s human rights. The Human Rights Act of 2000 states that a person’s human rights are: * The right to life * The right to freedom from torture and degrading treatment * The right to freedom from slavery and forced labour * The right to liberty * The right