NHS Dorset has been successful in obtaining equality and diversity partnership status with NHS Employers.

It is one of 13 Trusts nationally that have achieved partner status for 2011/12. To gain the award, the Trust had to show how it integrates equality into day-to-day work, meeting the given criteria.

Having been awarded partner status NHS Dorset has a duty to:

• promote and champion equality, diversity and human rights and the work of NHS Employers within their geographical area;

• act as a resource to other NHS organisations in their area through sharing good practice, experience and expertise;

• actively participate in national benchmarking activities supported by NHS Employers;

• promote the priorities of the DH Equality and Diversity Council;

• contribute to the development of the good practice data base through submission of emerging good practice;

• actively contribute to relevant consultation processes initiated by NHS Employers in response to national issues;

• contribute to the further development of equality, diversity and human rights nationally;

• attend partner meetings.

NHS Dorset will now benefit from free access to training and development for staff, support from NHS Employers and the opportunity to influence the Department of Health on future policy.

Partner status is determined on an annual basis with Trusts being required to demonstrate that they meet the minimum requirements set out by NHS Employers.

They must also have in place a robust annual equality and diversity work plan, which is in support of the NHS Employers Equality and Diversity team work plan.