Inclusion and Diversity

Leap is committed to creating a fair, equal and inclusive environment for participants, employees, freelance trainers and trustees. We will stand up and challenge discrimination wherever we see it.

No person will be discriminated against on grounds of any of the following as outlined in the Equality Act 2010: Age, Disability, Gender Reassignment, Marriage and Civil Partnership, Pregnancy and Maternity, Race, Religion and Belief, Sex or Sexual Orientation.

We will also ensure that employees, freelance trainers and trustees will not be discriminated against based on socio-economic background, employment history or working pattern, parental or non-parental status, guardian or carer status, nationality or ethnicity.

Leap will not discriminate based on health issues (physical or mental) if the organisation can genuinely support the individual to succeed in the role. However, these characteristics may not be protected if the condition prohibits the individual from doing the job, and reasonable adjustments have been exhausted.

Leap is committed to supporting people with criminal convictions however the charity has a duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of vulnerable adults and children we work with. Therefore, engagement is dependent on the suitability of the individual to work with children and vulnerable adults. Please refer to our Recruitment of Ex-Offenders Policy.

OUR COMMITMENT

Leap recognises the value of a diverse workforce which contributes to the following:

  • A Leap community with different perspectives
  • Increased retention and productivity of staff
  • Increased responsiveness to the needs of young people and our partners
  • Improved relations with the young people we interact with and the surrounding community
  • Expanded creativity of the organisation overall

Leap is committed to enhancing diversity and inclusion by recognising, respecting and valuing different identities, perspectives and backgrounds, and promoting equality for all employees, participants, trustees, freelance trainers, volunteers and visitors.

We will demonstrate this by taking a pro-active and inclusive approach to equality, supporting and encouraging all groups to learn about difference, and promoting an inclusive culture which values diversity. We are committed to ensuring fair access to our services and representation of all.

POLICY PRINCIPLES

The rationale for this policy is guided by the following principles:

  • Leap is a welcoming, fair and inclusive place to work.
  • Leap carries out its activities within a legal framework.
  • The policy is easy to understand and accessible.
  • There is a safe space for people to learn about differences and resolve any issues informally.
  • Leap is pro-active in promoting equality, diversity and inclusion where reasonably practical.
  • All staff are clear on their rights and responsibilities in relation to equality and diversity.
  • Leap will contribute to emerging thinking in equality and diversity practices.

POLICIES