Equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) and CPD 

Equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) are relevant to many aspects of optical practice, from communicating effectively with patients and making reasonable adjustments to understanding different experiences, reducing barriers to accessing eye care and supporting diverse communities. 

The GOC's Standards of Practice require registrants to treat patients fairly, respect diversity and take account of patients' individual needs and circumstances. CPD can help registrants develop and maintain the knowledge, skills and understanding needed to deliver inclusive, person-centred care and meet the needs of the communities they serve.  

If you would like to learn more about EDI in a professional context, there are a range of CPD activities and resources available that may support your development.

Learning relevant to EDI may not always be labelled as "EDI". Depending on your role and learning needs, it could include topics such as: 

• inclusive communication and accessible services 

• reasonable adjustments and disability 

• health inequalities and barriers to accessing eye care 

• cultural awareness and understanding different communities 

• neurodiversity 

• bullying, harassment and discrimination 

• challenging inappropriate behaviour 

• patient feedback, lived experience and reflective practice 

• assumptions and bias in decision making 

• sexual orientation, gender identity and intersectionality 

You can develop your understanding of these areas through a range of CPD activities, including provider-led learning, and self-directed learning such as reading, research and workplace discussions.  

Useful resources 

Resources you can use for EDI learning include: 

• NHS England Health Inequalities Learning Resources - a collection of learning resources, e-learning modules, podcasts and guidance to help healthcare professionals understand the causes of health inequalities and how they can reduce barriers to care. 

• Oliver McGowan Mandatory Training on Learning Disability and Autism - training for healthcare professionals on providing safe and informed care to autistic people and people with a learning disability. 

• NHS England: Cultural Competence and Cultural Safety - explores cultural competence, cultural safety and how culture can influence people's experiences of healthcare. 

• Business Disability Forum Knowledge Hub - contains practical guidance, factsheets and resources on disability inclusion, accessibility, workplace adjustments, and inclusive practice. 

• Stonewall Learning Resources - covers LGBTQ+ inclusion, understanding lived experiences, creating inclusive environments, and supporting diverse communities. 

• NHS Race and Health Observatory 

• King’s Fund Anti-racism resources 

• NHS Health Education England  

• Public Health Scotland – Health Inequalities  

• Public Health Wales – Health inequalities 

• Public Health Northern Ireland – Health Inequalities 

These resources have been included as examples of learning materials that may support EDI CPD. Inclusion does not indicate endorsement by the GOC.