Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy

1. Policy Statement

Craigavon Area Compassion Project/Craigavon Area Foodbank is committed to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of its work and service delivery. We believe that everyone has the right to be treated with dignity, fairness, and respect, and we are committed to ensuring that no individual or group is disadvantaged or discriminated against.

2. Legal Framework

This policy is informed by and complies with relevant equality legislation and guidance, including the Equality Act 2010, Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998, and the Human Rights Act 1998.

3. Our Commitment

We are committed to promoting equality of opportunity, eliminating unlawful discrimination, advancing inclusion, and promoting good relations between people from different backgrounds in every area of our service delivery.

4. Protected Characteristics

We will not discriminate on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief (or no belief), sex, or sexual orientation.

5. Service Users

Services will be delivered fairly and consistently based on need. No one will be denied access to services on the basis of any protected characteristic. We will make reasonable adjustments where possible to support access.

6. Staff, Volunteers and Trustees

We are committed to equality and fairness in recruitment, volunteering, governance, training, and decision-making. Discriminatory behaviour, harassment, or bullying will not be tolerated.

7. Accessibility and Inclusion

We will take reasonable steps to remove barriers to participation and ensure services are accessible, inclusive, and responsive to individual needs.

8. Complaints and Concerns

Any concerns regarding discrimination or unfair treatment will be taken seriously and handled sensitively in line with our complaints procedure. No individual will be treated unfavourably for raising a concern in good faith.

9. Implementation and Responsibility

Overall responsibility for this policy rests with the Board of Trustees of Craigavon Area Compassion Project/ Craigavon Area Foodbank, who will ensure that the policy is implemented and understood.

10. Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed every year, or sooner if required by changes in legislation or organisational practice.