What is an Equal Opportunity Policy?
Simply put, an equal opportunity policy is a document that states what measures a business takes to eliminate and prevent discrimination in the workplace. This policy also must contain details of amenities that will be provided to their differently-abled employees.
Not only does having an EOP make your organization more diverse & inclusive, but it is also mandatory by law. ‘The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act of 2016 dictates that all organizations having more than 20 employees need to not only have an EOP but also appoint a liaison officer to oversee recruitment and provision of facilities for the differently-abled. Employers also need to ensure that there is no discrimination within the workplace & provide necessary training and infrastructure facilities to ensure that all the differently-abled employees function optimally.
Companies like Lemon Tree Hotels, Sodexo, Club Mahindra Holidays & Deutsche Bank have already taken the first steps and are now reaping the benefits of their initiatives. But it is important to understand that making your organization inclusive isn’t an overnight process & requires your management to take effort and initiative to be more comprehensive. Organizations should start small with sensitivity training for their staff and management & ensuring that the workplace is accessible for everyone. These little steps will pave the way to create a truly inclusive workplace that we all love to read about & aspire to work at.
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