Anti-Discriminatory Practice

The notion of anti‐discriminatory practice arises in several places within contemporary paramedic education and practice. This chapter looks at the development of anti‐discriminatory practice from its roots in social work theory through its adoption by wider health and social care, and focuses paramedic practice in the United Kingdom. To practise in an anti‐discriminatory or culturally competent way requires a basic understanding of discrimination from its basis in cognitive processes through the formation of prejudices and potentially onto oppression. The chapter further considers the ethical and legal basis of anti‐discriminatory practice, including the requirements of the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC) and various Acts of Parliament. Finally, it discusses some of the concepts underlying education in cultural competence and to promote what Campinha‐Bacote refers to as cultural desire, paramedics who want to be culturally competent rather than feeling they have to as part of their role.