Equality and diversity

As healthcare practitioners, we work within equality and diversity policies and intentional discrimination of any kind is not acceptable. It is important to be aware of any potentially discriminatory attitudes and behaviours you may bring to your courses. These behaviours may be based on assumptions, lack of understanding or habit.

Some things that can help you to avoid discrimination and to value all participants equally are:

• Assume that participants have a diverse range of backgrounds and experiences. You may not know them before the course, so try to get to know them during the course.
• Don’t avoid discussing an issue because it may feel uncomfortable. Ask the group’s permission, either when you introduce the topic or if the issue arises in some other way. Explain why the issue is relevant and why it is important to discuss it.
• Treat all participants equally – take into consideration their past experiences and individualities. Be aware that some experiences can trigger strong emotions. Don’t assume no one has had such an experience.
• Don’t single out participants and expect them to represent a group view. If you are aware of a participant’s experience (e.g. severe hypo or diabetic ketoacidosis) don’t assume they are happy for you to share that experience with the group. Allow people to choose what they share.
• Be sensitive to the needs of participants with disabilities, cultural or medical requirements without singling them out. Use your pre-course appointment to pre-empt and highlight any particular needs.

The social and emotional environment means creating a safe space for learning where all participants are valued and treated equally. Your role as the educator is important in setting the tone by modelling behaviours that will ensure the environment is one of trust and openness.

As a DAFNE educator, the skills you develop are key to making the DAFNE course work.