Group Five is committed to encouraging equality, diversity and inclusion among its workforce, and eliminating unlawful discrimination. The aim is for our staff to be truly representative of all sections of society and our service users, and for each employee to feel respected and able to give of their best.
The charity is also against unlawful discrimination of our customers or the public. The Trustees are responsible for monitoring its own practice, taking the lead on setting and achieving targets, publishing a report annually. All members and volunteers share responsibility for the effectiveness of the equality, diversity and inclusion policy.
The policy’s purpose is to:
1. Provide equality, fairness and respect for all staff;
2. Not unlawfully discriminate against the Equality Act 2010 protected characteristics of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origin), religion or belief, sex (gender) and sexual orientation;
3. Oppose and avoid all forms of unlawful discrimination: this includes in terms and conditions, benefits, dealing with grievances and discipline, and selection for promotion, training or other developmental opportunities.
The charity commits to:
1. Encouraging equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace;
2. Creating a working environment free of bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination, promoting dignity and respect for all;
3. Taking seriously complaints of bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination;
4. Reviewing volunteering practices and procedures when necessary to ensure fairness, and also update them and the policy to take account of changes in the law.