1. Introduction

You will be C.I.C. is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse environment where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. We recognise that equality and diversity are fundamental to our mission and values, and we are dedicated to creating a workplace and community where everyone feels valued, included, and empowered.

2. Principles

• Equality: We will ensure that everyone has equal opportunities and is treated fairly, regardless of their protected characteristics.
• Diversity: We will value and celebrate the diversity of our staff, volunteers, participants, and partners.
• Inclusion: We will create an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome, respected, and able to participate fully.
• Respect: We will treat everyone with dignity and respect, challenging discriminatory behaviour and promoting a culture of understanding and acceptance.
• Accessibility: We will strive to make our services and activities accessible to everyone, including those with disabilities.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, volunteers, board members, contractors, partners, and participants of You will be C.I.C. It covers all aspects of our work, including recruitment and selection, employment practices, volunteer management, service delivery, partnerships, and community engagement.

4. Protected Characteristics

We recognise and respect the following protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010: Age, Disability, Gender reassignment, Marriage and civil partnership, Pregnancy and maternity, Race, Religion or belief, Sex, and Sexual orientation.

5. Responsibilities

• Board Members: Responsible for ensuring the organisation has effective equalities and diversity policies in place.
• Senior Management: Responsible for implementing and monitoring this policy and promoting a culture of equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• All Staff and Volunteers: Responsible for adhering to this policy, treating everyone with respect, and challenging discriminatory behaviour.

6. Policy Commitments

• Recruitment and Selection: We will ensure processes are fair, transparent, and accessible to all, making reasonable adjustments for applicants with disabilities.
• Employment Practices: We will provide equal opportunities for all, free from discrimination.
• Volunteer Management: We will value our volunteers and ensure they are treated fairly and respectfully.
• Service Delivery: We will ensure our services meet the diverse needs of our community.
• Partnerships: We will work with partners who share our commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
• Community Engagement: We will engage with diverse communities and ensure our activities are inclusive and accessible.
• Training and Awareness: We will provide regular training so all staff and volunteers understand their responsibilities under this policy.
• Accessibility: We will make reasonable adjustments to ensure our premises, services, and communications are accessible to people with disabilities.
• Complaints Procedure: We will maintain a clear and accessible complaints procedure for anyone who believes they have experienced discrimination.

7. Challenging Discrimination

Any staff member or volunteer who witnesses or experiences discriminatory behaviour must report it immediately to their line manager or a senior member of staff. All complaints will be taken seriously, investigated thoroughly, and appropriate action taken.

8. Communication and Implementation

This policy will be made available to all staff, volunteers, board members, partners, and participants. It will be included in induction packs and made accessible on the organisation's website.

9. Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if there are changes in legislation or best practice.

10. Contact Information

Designated Equalities and Diversity Lead: Hermione Crowe - hermione@maltonsculpturetrail.org