Inclusion in health and social care refers to the process of including disadvantaged groups in healthcare activities, services, and policies within the community. It is an approach where groups or individuals with different backgrounds are welcomed, culturally and socially accepted, and treated equally. Inclusion health is an umbrella term used to describe people who are socially excluded, who typically experience multiple overlapping risk factors for poor health, such as poverty, violence, and poor access to health and care services. Poor access to health and care services and negative experiences can also be commonplace for inclusion health groups due to multiple barriers, often related to the way healthcare services are delivered.
Inclusive care is based on the philosophy that health services should be equally accessible by all, regardless of age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or marital status. Inclusion means giving associates and patients from all backgrounds a voice in providing and receiving high-quality care. Healthcare organizations should strive to hire and retain a workforce representing the patient populations they serve to ensure equity.
Efforts to improve inclusion in health and social care should include working with people with lived experience and local partners, particularly the voluntary community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector. Diversity and inclusion training and discussions for current staff can also be helpful.
