Our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion as an employer

At RCPCH, we have a a fantastic and diverse staff group. We believe talent is universal, even if opportunity is not. That’s why we actively work to identify and remove barriers, make adjustments where needed and build a culture where everyone feels valued, respected and supported.

We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader, committed to creating an environment where disabled people and those with long-term health conditions can thrive - during recruitment, onboarding and throughout their careers with us.

Logo: Four graphics showing people, ticks, lock and person speaking, plus text "Disability Confident"

Removing barriers in recruitment

We carefully review our job descriptions so they are free from jargon and easy to read. We remove any unnecessary requirements such as a degree where work experience is just as valuable.

We are particularly keen to receive applications from those who belong to an underrepresented group as defined in the Equality Act 2010, including age, disability, sex, race, religion or belief, gender, gender reassignment, married or in a civil partnership, pregnancy/parental leave or sexual orientation.

We aim to make our recruitment process as accessible and inclusive as possible. This includes:

  • Providing job information in alternative formats on request
  • Offering reasonable adjustments at every stage of the selection process
  • Being flexible with interview arrangements, locations and formats
  • Making sure our panels understand inclusive recruitment practices
  • Focusing on your skills, experience and potential, not assumptions

If there’s anything we can do to support you during your application, we encourage you to tell us (recruitment@rcpch.ac.uk). We will always listen and respond positively.

Guaranteed interview scheme

As part of our commitment, disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for a role are guaranteed an interview.

This is one way we help ensure disabled candidates have equal access to opportunities and the chance to demonstrate their abilities.

Support in the workplace

Our commitment doesn’t stop once you join us. We work with colleagues to put in place adjustments that support them to perform at their best, which might include:

  • Assistive technology or specialist equipment
  • Flexible or hybrid working arrangements
  • Adjusted hours or duties where appropriate
  • Workplace assessments
  • Ongoing conversations with managers about what works best for you

We recognise that needs can change over time, and we encourage open dialogue so support can evolve with you.

You can download two of our policies at the bottom of this page: diversity and inclusion policy and transitioning at work policy.

How we continuously learn and improve

  • Promote disability awareness across our organisation
  • Train recruiting managers in inclusive practices
  • Review our policies to ensure they are fair and accessible
  • Engage with disabled colleagues to shape improvements
  • Share best practice and encourage others to become more inclusive

Inclusion is everyone’s responsibility, and we are proud to champion equality in all that we do.

Our staff networks

Our staff networks offer safe spaces, peer support and opportunities to influence College policies, and include:

  • Women’s Impact Network (WIN) - Championing gender equity, this network supports women in the workplace, addresses career barriers, and influences policies for inclusivity. Open to all, including non-binary members and male allies, it provides learning opportunities, raises awareness, and hosts events to promote equality. 

  • Accessibility and Inclusion Network - Launched in 2024, this network promotes disability inclusion and accessible work practices. It offers a safe space for disabled colleagues, educates staff on accessibility, and collaborates with the People and Culture Team to advocate for inclusive policies. 

  • LGBTQ+ Network - Supporting LGBTQ+ colleagues and allies, this network fosters an inclusive environment where staff can connect, spotlight LGBTQ+ matters, and contribute to the College’s diversity agenda. 

  • Parent and Carer (P&C) Network - Providing support for parents, expectant parents, and carers, this network raises awareness of P&C-related challenges, influences policies, and creates peer support opportunities through informal and social gatherings. 

  • REACH (Racial Equity And Cultural Harmony) Network - Dedicated to promoting racial equity and cultural harmony, this network focuses on engaging staff from Black and ethnic backgrounds, fostering inclusivity, and advocating for diversity across the organisation. 

  • Green Team Network - Committed to sustainability, this network champions efforts to reduce the College’s carbon footprint and achieve Net Zero by 2040. Key actions include resource conservation, waste reduction, and promoting environmentally responsible policies. 

Our policies

 

Talk to us

We welcome conversations and are happy to help. If you would like to discuss adjustments, accessibility or our recruitment process before applying, please contact us at recruitment@rcpch.ac.uk.

See our current vacancies