The Hub is committed to encouraging equality, diversity and inclusion amongst our volunteers and any paid staff, and eliminating unlawful discrimination. We aim to be truly representative of all sections of society and the people with whom we work; and for everyone to feel respected and able to give of their best. This policy reinforces our commitment to providing equality and fairness to all who come into contact with us, and to avoid less favourable treatment on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, ethnic origin, colour, nationality, national origin, religion or belief, or sex and sexual orientation.
All those who work for the Hub, no matter whether temporary or volunteers, will be treated fairly and with respect. Candidates will be selected for employment, training or any other benefit on the basis of their aptitude and ability. Everyone will be given help and encouragement to develop their full potential and utilise their unique talents. The Hub commits to:
- creating an environment in which individual difference and the contributions of all team members are recognised and valued;
- regularly auditing the make-up of our volunteers regarding aspects such as: age, sex, ethnic background, sexual orientation, religion or belief, and disability. Whenever practicable, we will encourage equality, diversity and inclusion with the aim of meeting the aims and commitments set out in this policy;
- creating an environment that promotes dignity and respect for everyone;
- not tolerating any form of intimidation, bullying or harassment and to discipline anyone who breaches this policy;
- making training, development and opportunities available to all staff;
- promoting equality, which we believe is good management practice and makes sound organisational sense;
- encouraging anyone who feels they have been discriminated against to raise their concerns so that we can ensure our values are upheld; and
- regularly reviewing all our employment practices and procedures so that fairness is maintained at all times.
The Hub will inform all volunteers that an equality and diversity policy is in operation and that they are obliged to comply with its requirements and promote fairness. The policy will also be made available to funding agencies, clients, and job applicants. We undertake to review these practices and procedures and when necessary to update them, taking into account any changes in the law.
All volunteers and paid staff should understand that they can be held liable for acts of bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination, while working in the hub, against fellow volunteers, clients, suppliers of services and the wider public.
Approved by the Steering Group: Last updated June 2022