1.0 Policy Statement 

Torch Help Hub (Torch) has prepared this policy to alert staff and volunteers to the legal and moral duty we have not to discriminate against one another. Torch is committed to encouraging equality, diversity and inclusion among our workforce and the clients who need our help. To seek to eliminate unlawful discrimination and work together in unity, and to utilise the skills of the total workforce.   

The aim of this policy is for our workforce to be representative of all sections of society and for our volunteers and staff to feel respected, valued, and able to give their best. 

 

2.0 Context 

Torch recognises that, many of our clients have been excluded, discriminated, and may not be valued equally due to their social situation. We seek to: 

  • Provide equality, fairness, and respect for all our volunteers, staff, and clients. 
  • To adhere to the Equality Act 2010 that protects characteristics of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage, civil partnership, pregnancy, maternity, race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origin), religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. 

 

3.0 Relevant Legislation 

Equality Act 2010 

 

4.0 Torch Commitment 

Torch commits to: 

  • 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, leave for parents and carers, requests for flexible working, and selection for employment, promotion, training, or other developmental opportunities.  
  • Take seriously complaints of bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination by fellow staff, volunteers, clients, suppliers, visitors, the public and any others during the organisations work activities.  
  • Ensure that all staff and volunteers should conduct themselves in a manner that helps the organisation provide equal opportunities to prevent bullying, harassment, victimisation, and unlawful discrimination. Staff and volunteers should understand that 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 staff and volunteers, clients and the public.  
  • Such acts will be dealt with a misconduct under the THH11 Torch Disciplinary Policy and Procedures and THH12 Torch Complaints Policy and Procedures.  
  • Make decisions concerning staff and volunteers based on merit (apart from in any necessary and limited exemptions and exceptions allowed under the Equality Act 2010). 
  • Review employment practices and procedures when necessary to ensure fairness and update them and the policy to take account of changes in the law. 

 

5.0 How to Raise a Concern 

Any member of staff or a volunteer who has a concern regarding diversity, equality, inclusion should ensure that it is discussed with the Operations Team Leader at the earliest possible opportunity. 

 

 

 

 

THH18 Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy V1