Equality of opportunity and respect for diversity is fundamental to the vision and values of South Tyneside Council.

The Council is committed to being an equal opportunities employer. The aim of our Equality and Diversity Policy is to ensure that no job applicant or employee (whether part-time, full-time or temporary) receives unfair treatment because of his or her age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage / civil partnership, pregnancy / maternity, race, religion or belief, sex (gender), or sexual orientation (the protected characteristics in the Equality Act 2010). In addition, trade union membership or unrelated criminal convictions are also protected.

This applies to recruitment and selection, training and development, and all other employment procedures, terms and conditions of employment. Our policy also operates in accordance with the Recruitment Policy with respect to job applicants.

Our policy and the associated arrangements shall operate in accordance with statutory requirements. In addition, full account will be taken of any guidance or Codes of Practice issued by the Equality and Human Rights Commission, any Government Departments, and any other statutory bodies.