The IWK Diversity and Inclusion Lens Tool

What is a lens?

A lens is a filter or a way of looking at things. It encourages us to consider certain ideas in our work.

What is a lens tool?

A lens tool is an assessment tool. It provides a way of applying a special filter or certain concepts to what we do. In this case, the lens tool seeks to encourage the application of diversity and inclusion concepts to all we do for IWK patients and families.

What is the purpose of the lens tool?

The diversity and inclusion lens tool is a set of questions intended to help IWK Health Centre staff, physicians and volunteers to consider the concepts of diversity and inclusion in the development, revision, implementation and evaluation of programs, policies and practices. The lens tool serves to promote and protect diversity at the IWK.

The Lens Tool

To help ensure the inclusion of all in programs, policies and practices, ask yourself the following questions:

• How are the needs of patients and families being identified and assumptions challenged?
• How are community groups being consulted in the planning, process and evaluation of this work?
• How are the needs of different religions, traditions or holidays being considered?
• How are the unique needs of women, girls, men and boys being considered?
• How may the program/policy be affected by or adapted for different cultures?
• How could the cost and logistics of travel impact the ability to participate?
• How can a supportive environment be created for an individual or couple who identify as GLBTI (gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, intersex)?
• How are the needs of a family or patient who has recently immigrated being considered?
• How are potential barriers to your program, space or service being eliminated for individuals/ families with physical accessibility needs and requirements?
• Is the program/service/treatment financially accessible to individuals/families belonging to any income range?
• How are the unique learning needs of patients/ families being identified and addressed?
• Is the policy/program information written in easily understandable language?

For a printable bookmark format, click here.