Diversity & Equality Policy.
Aims
Leigh Folk Arts Association is open to all to attend our events, volunteer, or be a member or trustee . We aim for our events to have an atmosphere of respect for each other. In particular, we aim to treat all equally, regardless of their age, disability, gender assignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation.
We will comply with the requirements of the Equality Act 2010, as appropriate and in accordance with current good practice.
Accessibility
We seek where possible that our events are held in venues that are accessible to wheelchair users.
When we organise events, on request, we would provide free places for carers of attendees who can only attend if they bring a carer.
We are committed to ensuring anyone is able to attend our meeting, so we will reassess our access requirements to meet the needs of new members.
Diversity
Our Charity serves and reflects the community. We aim to organise a range of events and activities to suit the interests and meet the needs of a wide variety of people.
The Charity is open to improving diversity in its membership.
Inclusion and respect
All should be made to feel equally welcome and included at all our meetings and events.
Sexist, racist, homophobic, transphobic bullying or otherwise offensive and inflammatory remarks and behaviour are not acceptable. These constitute harassment, and have no place in the Charity.
Dealing with discrimination and harassment
If anyone feels they have been discriminated against by the Charity or harassed at a Charity event they should raise this with the Chair, or a Trustee if this person is not available or involved.
The Chair, or a Trustee if this person is not available or involved will arrange to investigate the complaint, listening to all involved. (If the complaint is against a committee member, that member will not be part of conducting the investigation).
If the complaint is against a particular individual, this person will have the opportunity to express their point of view, accompanied by a friend. The person making the complaint will also have this opportunity.
If the complaint is against the Charity as a whole, the Charity must work to ensure that such discrimination is not repeated in the future, and must inform the members of how they propose to do this.
Any decision to exclude a person from the organisation due to discriminatory or harassing behaviour will be made with reference to the Charity’s constitution. The Charity will support people who feel they have been harassed or discriminated against, and will not victimise or treat them less well because they have raised this.
Review
This Policy will be regularly reviewed:
In accordance with changes in legislation and guidance on Equality or Diversity or following any changes within Leigh Folk Arts Association.
Following any relevant issues or concerns raised within Leigh Folk Arts Association.