Diversity and equality

For our customers

The Department for Work and Pensions is committed to providing services which embrace diversity and which promote equality of opportunity. The Department is committed to providing the best possible services to meet the diverse requirements of its customers.

For our staff

As an employer we are committed to equality and we value diversity within our workforce. Our goal is to ensure that these commitments, reinforced by our Values, are embedded in our day-to-day working practices with all our customers, colleagues and partners.

We think it is important that all our people can contribute to the achievement of the Department’s objectives. Staff have access to learning and development products covering the range of equality areas. There are also Staff Network Groups for age, disability, gender, race, transgender, sexual orientation and work-life balance. The Network Groups contribute directly to departmental goals for customers and staff by acting as a consultation forum for policy and operational colleagues, by raising concerns and by promoting best practice.

DWP has been recognised as a gay-friendly employer by being ranked in the Stonewall Top 100 Employers in Britain for lesbian, gay and bisexual people in 2013. We have shown equality in the workplace for both our gay and lesbian staff and for our customers.

The MINDFUL EMPLOYER® initiative is aimed at increasing awareness of mental health at work and providing support for businesses in recruiting and retaining staff. DWP has signed their Charter for Employers who are Positive About Mental Health.