Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy

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(Equal Opportunities Policy)

Improving Futures Ltd

 

Improving Futures Ltd is committed to promoting equality, valuing diversity and ensuring inclusion in everything we do. We believe everyone has the right to be treated with dignity, respect and fairness, and to access our services without discrimination.

 

________________________________________Purpose

 

This policy explains our commitment to:

•equality of opportunity

•inclusive and respectful practice

•preventing discrimination

•supporting diverse needsIt applies to how we deliver services, work with families, and engage staff, volunteers and contractors.

________________________________________Legal Framework

This policy operates in line with the Equality Act 2010, which protects individuals from discrimination, harassment and victimisation based on protected characteristics.

 

________________________________________Scope

 

This policy applies to:

•all clients and service users

•families, carers and representatives

•staff, volunteers and contractors

•anyone engaging with Improving Futures Ltd

________________________________________Protected Characteristics

 

Under the Equality Act 2010, the following characteristics are protected:

•age•disability

•gender reassignment

•marriage and civil partnership

•pregnancy and maternity

•race (including nationality and ethnic origin)

•religion or belief

•sex

•sexual or

ientation

 

________________________________________Our Commitment

 

Improving Futures Ltd is committed to:

•providing services that are accessible and inclusive

•treating all individuals fairly and with respect

•challenging discrimination, prejudice and exclusion

•making reasonable adjustments where needed

•listening to lived experience and individual needs

•promoting equality in advocacy, support and decision-making

 

________________________________________Service Delivery

 

We aim to ensure that:

•no one is excluded from support due to a protected characteristic

•services are delivered in a non-judgemental and person-centred way

•communication is adapted to individual needs

•reasonable adjustments are made wherever possible

 

This includes consideration of:

 

•disability and neurodiversity

•mental health

•language or communication needs

•cultural and religious practices

•trauma-informed support

 

________________________________________Staff, Volunteers and Contractors

 

All staff, volunteers and contractors are expected to:

 

•uphold this policy

•treat others with respect and fairness

•avoid discriminatory language or behaviour

•challenge discrimination where safe to do so

•act in line with our values and professional standards

 

________________________________________Reasonable Adjustments

 

We recognise our duty to make reasonable adjustments to reduce barriers for disabled people and others who may be disadvantaged.

 

Adjustments may include:

•flexible communication methods

•additional time or support

•adapted environments or approaches

________________________________________Complaints and Concerns

 

Any concerns about discrimination or unfair treatment can be raised through our Complaints Policy.

 

Concerns will be taken seriously and handled promptly and fairly.

 

________________________________________Links to Other Policies

This policy should be read alongside:

 

•Privacy Policy

•Safeguarding Policy

•Confidentiality Policy

•Complaints Policy

 

________________________________________Review

 

This Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy is reviewed annually or sooner if required due to changes in legislation or guidance.

 

________________________________________Contact

 

For questions about equality, inclusion or accessibility, contact:📧 support@improvingfutures.co.uk