The significance of communications  

Communication is an integral part of the equality plan's implementation. Multichannel communication makes the plan and planning process more visible and effective. On the other hand, the organisation's internal and external communication may be one of the areas of development in the equality plan. 

The organisation's internal communication must work smoothly to enable comprehensive communication about planning and the plan's implementation. Examples of suitable channels include the intranet, external websites and personnel events. 

Communicating about planning  

Equality planning and the measures specified in the plan should be clearly communicated in different channels. Various communicative means provide visibility and effectiveness to the plan  

  • at the beginning of the planning process 
  • when implementing the assessment and communicating the results 
  • in the plan's approval and implementation 
  • in increasing awareness of the plan and the importance of equality planning. 

Communication as a means of promoting equality 

Communication can be one of many measures to promote equality. The equality plan can lay out concrete measures for boosting the equality of communication. Are there target groups that are not adequately addressed currently? How could they be reached? 

The equality of external communication should be considered in connection with recruitment, for example: 

  • Do the job advertisements contain discriminatory features? 
  • Has attention been paid to the website's accessibility? 
  • Is the accessibility of facilities mentioned in the job advertisement? 

The organisation should also include a mention of accessibility when organising events.

A tip from the Non-Discrimination Ombudsman: Communicating about the accessibility and inclusiveness of events

The Non-Discrimination Ombudsman provides prominent information about the accessibility and inclusiveness of its events. It does so to show an example of ways to promote inclusiveness. 

The accessibility of events is highlighted in social media through written descriptions and close-up photos. The aim is to make everyone feel welcome at the event, and ensure that no one needs to separately ask about it. 

The accessibility of event is ensured in advance. To be on the safe side, a visit is made to the event location even if it appears to be accessible on paper. Information about accessibility is added to event invitations even if visitors are known not to have accessibility needs.