Is equality equitable?
- aled722
- May 14
- 2 min read
Equality is one of the most important principles in society. As human beings, we are all equal and should have access to opportunities that enable us to succeed. However, equal opportunities alone do not always result in equal outcomes. This is where equity becomes essential and this is part of what The Welsh Dream envisions.
An equitable approach recognises that individuals start from different circumstances and may require different levels of support to achieve the same opportunity for success.
In 1963, John Stacey Adams developed the Equity Theory, proposing that individuals are motivated by fairness in social exchanges and workplace relationships.
People naturally compare:
• What they contribute — effort, skills, time, and commitment
with
• What they receive — pay, recognition, growth, flexibility, and support.
When people perceive this balance as fair, engagement, motivation, and productivity increase. When fairness is absent, motivation can quietly decline — even among high performers — often leading to reduced wellbeing and lower retention. Although Adams’ theory is often applied to workplace settings, its relevance extends far beyond employment. It can be applied across all aspects of society, particularly when supporting marginalised communities.
The majority of our service users are refugees and asylum seekers, many of whom have experienced exclusion, trauma, and systemic barriers due to their circumstances. A truly equitable approach means recognising these realities and responding with tailored support that accounts for cultural differences, lived experiences, and individual needs.
Equity is not about giving everyone the same support — it is about giving people the support they need to thrive.
This may include providing language assistance, trauma-informed mental health services, and culturally responsive educational support to ensure genuine access, participation, and opportunity.
True inclusion begins with equity.
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