Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Policy
1. Policy Statement
Kidney Care for All CIC (KCA) is committed to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion in all areas of our work. We aim to provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where all individuals are treated fairly and with respect, regardless of their background or personal characteristics.
We oppose all forms of unlawful discrimination and actively work to eliminate barriers to participation and opportunity.
2. Purpose
This policy outlines our commitment to:
– Comply with the Equality Act 2010
– Create an inclusive and respectful culture for staff, volunteers, service users and stakeholders
– Ensure fair access to opportunities, services and support
– Prevent and challenge discrimination, harassment and victimisation
3. Scope
This policy applies to:
– All directors, volunteers, staff, and contractors
– All services, activities and communications delivered by or on behalf of KCA
Protected characteristics under the Equality Act 2010 include:
– Age
– Disability
– Gender reassignment
– Marriage and civil partnership
– Pregnancy and maternity
– Race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origin)
– Religion or belief
– Sex
– Sexual orientation
4. Our Commitments
KCA will:
– Treat everyone with dignity and respect
– Foster a culture that values difference and promotes inclusion
– Provide equal access to volunteering and services
– Make reasonable adjustments to support inclusion
– Actively prevent and address bullying, harassment or discriminatory behaviour
– Provide training and guidance where appropriate
– Monitor and review practices to identify and address inequality
5. Responsibilities
– The Board of Directors has overall responsibility for ensuring compliance and championing equality and inclusion.
– All individuals representing KCA are expected to uphold the values of this policy and challenge discriminatory behaviour where it occurs.
– Volunteers and staff should report any concerns about unfair treatment or exclusion to the Secretary or another Director.
6. Recruitment and Volunteering
We aim to ensure that recruitment (for staff or volunteers):
– Is open, fair and based on merit
– Encourages applications from underrepresented groups
– Considers appropriate adjustments for disability or access needs
7. Services and Activities
We will ensure that our services and activities:
– Are welcoming to all communities and backgrounds
– Avoid barriers to participation (physical, cultural or financial)
– Are designed with accessibility and inclusion in mind
8. Complaints and Breaches
Any breach of this policy, including discriminatory behaviour, may result in:
– Warnings or dismissal from voluntary or official roles
– Referral to safeguarding or disciplinary procedures
– Reporting to relevant authorities (if applicable)
Concerns should be reported to the Secretary or another Director and will be treated seriously and in confidence.
9. Monitoring and Review
This policy will be reviewed annually by the Board of Directors. We welcome feedback from volunteers, service users and partners to improve our approach to equality, diversity and inclusion.