Honiton Carers Support Group (HCSG) – Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Policy
Policy brief and purpose
HCSG recognises that discrimination and victimisation is unacceptable. Everyone has a role to make sure organisations are inclusive spaces for all and, which reflect the diversity of our society. It is important everyone reflects on their own experiences, assumptions and behaviours and is proactively inclusive in creating space for those often excluded. Our core aim is to ensure that no individual receives less favourable facilities or treatment (either directly or indirectly) on the grounds of age, disability, gender / gender reassignment, marriage / civil partnership, pregnancy / maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation (the nine characteristics protected in law).
We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair discrimination or victimisation. To that end, the purpose of this policy is to provide equality and fairness for all. In all our charity’s activities, we will seek to ensure all individuals will be treated fairly and with respect. All individuals will be helped and encouraged to develop their full potential. The talents and resources of the charity will be fully utilised to maximise the efficiency of the organisation, in order to ensure inclusivity for all.
Our Trustees, Volunteers or Members will not discriminate directly or indirectly. Neither will they harass anyone because of age, disability, gender reassignment, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation in the provision of our charity’s services.
Definition
–Equity means treating people in ways that make sure they are not unfairly prevented from accessing resources and opportunities; nor that others have an unfair advantage. Simply providing the same opportunities to everyone is not an effective way to create equality of outcomes. Equality of outcomes highlights, rather than giving, everyone the same thing, It is about giving people what they need for fair access. This is about removing inequalities to make sure everyone has the chance to realise their ambitions.
–Diversity means having differences within an organisation or setting. Diversity recognises we are all different in many ways. People with differing identities, backgrounds and experiences should all have equitable access to resources and decision-making. Some people prefer to use the term ‘representation’ to focus on how organisations should be reflective of the society we live in and the communities we serve.
– Inclusion means being proactive to make sure people of different backgrounds, experiences and identities feel welcomed, respected and able fully to participate. It is not only about creating a diverse environment, but also about ensuring a culture exists where individuals can be their full selves.
Our Policy
- Our aim is that:
- our Trustees, Volunteers & Members will be truly representative of all sections of society. Every person should feel respected and able to give their best.
- HCSG wishes to create an environment in which individual differences, as well as the contributions of all our Trustees, Volunteers & Members, will be recognised and valued.
- Everyone is entitled to be in an environment that promotes dignity and respect for all.
- No form of intimidation, bullying or harassment will be tolerated.
- Training, development, and progression opportunities are part of the induction and development process (appropriate/depending on charity role).
- We wish to promote equality in the workplace which we believe is good charity practice and also makes sound business sense.
- To ensure fairness, we will review all our charity practices and procedures annually.
- Breaches of our equality policy will not be tolerated and will be investigated fully.
- As a charity, we will be open to exploring learning opportunities and feedback.
- We will seek to ensure EDI compliance in any building we use. The Equality Act 2010 explores the kind of reasonable adjustments that may be made.
Responsibilities of Charity Management Committee
Responsibility for ensuring the effective implementation and operation of the arrangements will rest with the Trustees. They will seek to ensure that everyone operates within this policy. They will also seek to ensure that all reasonable and practical steps are taken to avoid discrimination.
Such steps will include:
- Being sure that everyone is aware of the policy and the reasons for the policy
- That grievances concerning discrimination are dealt with properly, fairly and, as quickly as possible
- HCSG user feedback is reviewed with transparency and the outcome recorded
- Proper records are maintained
- Everyone models inclusive behaviours
- Discrimination and injustice are actively discouraged
- Adequate resources to support effective action are in place
- There is a commitment to building an equitable organisational culture
Responsibilities for Everyone
Anyone working with/on behalf of the charity should:
- Comply with the policy and arrangements
- Not discriminate in their day-to-day activities or, induce others to do so
- Not victimise, harass, or intimidate others who have, or are perceived to have, one of the protected characteristics
All Trustees, Volunteers & Members will be made aware of this policy on induction and a copy will always be available on request.