The Clay Yard equality, diversity and inclusion policy

The Clay Yard is committed to encouraging equality, diversity and inclusion with all whom engage with the organisation, and eliminating unlawful discrimination.

We aim to be truly representative of all sections of society and our customers, and for all to feel respected and able to give their best.

The organisation - in providing goods and/or services and/or facilities - is also committed against unlawful discrimination of customers or the public.

Our policy’s purpose

This policy’s purpose is to:

1. Provide equality, fairness and respect for all in our employment, whether temporary, part-time or full-time

2. Not unlawfully discriminate because of the Equality Act 2010 protected characteristics of:

·       age

·       disability

·       gender reassignment

·       marriage or civil partnership

·       pregnancy and maternity

·       race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origin)

·       religion or belief

·       sex

·       sexual orientation

3. Oppose and avoid all forms of unlawful discrimination. This includes in:

·       pay and benefits

·       terms and conditions of employment

·       dealing with grievances and discipline

·       dismissal

·       redundancy

·       leave for parents

·       requests for flexible working

·       selection for employment, promotion, training or other developmental opportunities

Our commitments

The organisation commits to:

1. Encourage equality, diversity and inclusion in the workplace as they are good practice and make business sense

2. Create a working environment free of bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination, promoting dignity and respect for all, and where individual differences and the contributions of all staff are recognised and valued.

This commitment includes training our tutors, technicians and volunteers about their rights and responsibilities under the equality, diversity and inclusion policy. Responsibilities include staff conducting themselves to help the organisation provide equal opportunities in employment, and prevent bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination.

All staff should understand they, as well as their employer, can be held liable for acts of bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination, in the course of their employment, against fellow employees, customers, suppliers and the public

3. Take seriously complaints of bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination by fellow employees, customers, suppliers, visitors, the public and any others in the course of the organisation’s work activities.

Such acts will be dealt with as misconduct and appropriate action will be taken.

Further, sexual harassment may amount to both an employment rights matter and a criminal matter, such as in sexual assault allegations. In addition, harassment under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 – which is not limited to circumstances where harassment relates to a protected characteristic – is a criminal offence.

Monitoring will also include assessing how the equality, diversity and inclusion policy, and any supporting action plan, are working in practice, reviewing them annually, and considering and taking action to address any issues. For sight of The Clay Yard Equality Action Plan please e-mail info@theclayyardtotnes.co.uk.

Agreement to follow this policy

The equality, diversity and inclusion policy is fully supported by The Clay Yard director Alison Hannah, [07 Dec 2022].