Policies

SWAYFIELD PARISH COUNCIL

EQUALITY POLICY

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;

Equality is an integral part of what we do, not an afterthought.

How will we do this?

People (members, staff, volunteers and service 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 our use of resources is balanced and reflects 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 these at a time and place suitable to the majority, if not to all, in compliance with current legislation.

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, service users and participants endeavours to be inclusive of the whole community wherever possible.

The Law.

The policy will be implemented within the framework of the relevant legislation, as updated, which includes:

Equal PayAct 1970

Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974

Sex Discrimination Act 1975

Gender Reassignment Regulations 1999

Race Relations (Amendment)Act 2000

Disability Discrimination Act 1995

The Protection from Harassment Act 1997

Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Act 2013.