Policy:
Divert NS is dedicated to the commitment of equity and strives to create a workforce that is reflective of the diversity of Nova Scotians. We are committed to encouraging diversity which includes, but is not limited to, age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, persons with disabilities, African Nova Scotians, Indigenous peoples in Canada, and racially visible minorities.
Divert NS shall conduct its employee related actions and programs on the principles of equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility which shall encompass recruitment, hiring, remuneration, benefits, promotions, and training.
No person shall be discriminated against on the basis of age, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, persons with disabilities, African Nova Scotians, Indigenous peoples in Canada, and racially visible minorities.
Scope:
This policy applies to all candidates for employment and all employees at all work locations.
Purpose:
Divert NS recognizes that its people are its most important assets and so it is committed to the maintenance and promotion of workplace equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility.
Divert NS is dedicated to employing the best people to do the best job possible and we strive to create an environment in which individual differences and the contributions of team members are valued. We believe all employees and potential employees should be treated with fairness, dignity, and respect.
Divert NS believes equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in the workplace is within our best interest, is good management practice, and makes sound business sense. Diversity contributes to creativity and increased productivity as well as improved community relations.
Divert NS must strive for a diverse and inclusive workforce to ensure compliance with all applicable statutes and regulations to make sure all job applicants, candidates, and employees are treated equitably.
Procedure:
- Divert NS shall state its policy position as being an equitable employer that strives for diversity in all employment opportunity advertisements placed by or on behalf of the organization. Divert NS shall also state that we are committed to encouraging diversity which includes age, gender, persons with disabilities, African Nova Scotians, Indigenous peoples in Canada, and racially visible minorities. Members of these groups are welcome to apply and may voluntarily self-identify if they wish to be considered under our Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Policy.
- Divert NS shall broadly promote its Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Policy by including a statement in all correspondence, media communication, and printed matter for employment/hiring purposes. This statement shall also promote a culture that values diversity and a welcoming message to encourage applications of the designated groups.
- Employee selection will be based on the principles of merit, fairness, and equity. When Divert NS selects candidates for employment, promotion, training, or any other benefit, it will be on the basis of their education, experience, skills, knowledge, aptitude, and ability. For current employees, years of service may also be taken into consideration.
- Discrimination will not be tolerated. Supervisors and managers are accountable to ensure the maintenance of a welcoming and respectful environment. Divert NS shall consider complaints or grievances from any individual who has reason to believe that they have been affected by prohibited discrimination so it can apply corrective measures. A current employee should discuss any complaint or grievance with their direct supervisor or with Human Resources. A candidate for employment should discuss any complaint or grievance with Human Resources (Director of Corporate Services and Executive Assistant). In Nova Scotia, individuals and groups are protected against discrimination by the Nova Scotia Human Rights Act.
- Divert NS believes it is important to have an inclusive workplace where all perspectives are considered equally, where all employees have a voice within decision-making processes, and where all employees feel safe and like they belong.
- Employees are expected to comply with the Act and apply the Divert NS’ Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Policy on an ongoing basis. Each employee is expected to treat all other employees with dignity and respect and in a fair and non-discriminatory manner in all employment-related dealings.
- This policy shall be posted on the Divert NS website.
- This policy will be monitored and reviewed annually to ensure that equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility are continually promoted in the workplace. Divert NS will continue to review all organization processes, practices, policies, and corporate documents to ensure that they comply with the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Policy and that any biased or discriminatory practices are removed.
- This policy is fully supported by Divert NS and its Board of Directors.