Policies and Procedures

What do we value?

•   We value people from all backgrounds and believe they have a right to be free from prejudice and discrimination.
•   We believe that while people are all different, they have an equal right to benefit from opportunities.
•   We recognise that discrimination can be overt or covert – open or hidden.
•   We endeavour not to discriminate on the grounds of ability; age; colour; ethnic or national origin; gender; gender reassignment; intellect; marital status; nationality; race; religion or belief; sexual orientation; social or economic status (this is not an exhaustive list)
•   Equality of opportunities is an integral part of what we do, not an after-thought.

How will we do this?

People (members, staff, volunteers and users)

•   We   challenge   discriminatory   comments,   and   support   colleagues   in   challenging discriminatory comments.
•   We recognise that people on the receiving end of such behaviour may need support.
•   We welcome discussion with people with special requirements to identify how their needs might be met.
•   We make sure anyone providing information about discrimination is not victimised.

Resources

•   We ensure that any resources are balanced and reflect the diverse nature of the community.
•   We  endeavour  to  ensure  that  any  resources  are  as  accessible  as  possible  to  all abilities/cultures/languages of the community.

Meetings

•   We endeavour to hold all meetings at a time and place suitable to the majority, if not to all.

Food

•   We respect people’s dietary needs, whether these are cultural, medical or moral.

Employment and volunteering

•   We have a commitment to equal opportunities as part of any job description.
•   We advertise as widely as possible, in accordance with needs and resources.
•   We focus on ability, not disability.
•   We treat all applicants fairly.
•   We regularly review our procedures and application forms for staff and volunteers.
•   Volunteers are as respected and supported as members of staff.
•   We have an induction procedure for staff and volunteers
 
Training

•   Staff and volunteers are encouraged to attend training relevant to their work.
•   We encourage staff and volunteers to look at their personal/career development.

•   Disability Discrimination Act

•   We seek advice on making information and premises accessible under the DDA, where it is feasible to do so.
•   We seek advice on recruitment and employment issues as necessary under the DDA.

Monitoring and Reviewing

•   The make-up of volunteers, staff, users and participants endeavours to be inclusive of the whole community wherever possible.