Equality means ensuring everybody has an equal opportunity, and is not treated differently or discriminated against because of their actual or perceived characteristics.
Diversity concerns taking account of the differences between people and groups of people, and placing a positive value on those differences.
Inclusion is successful when a person feels, simultaneously, that they are both similar to, and distinct from, their fellows. They perceive that the diversity of their talents, experiences and identities is valued at the same time that common ground is found.
The HelpLine recognises the importance of equality, diversity and inclusion. We operate in an increasingly diverse community, and we understand that the people who provide and use our services have diverse characteristics and different experiences, needs and aspirations.
Understanding, valuing and effectively managing these differences can help us widen participation in and access to our services. It can also support the success of our Board, staff teams and volunteers.
The HelpLine is committed to creating an inclusive working environment where individual differences are valued and respected, and in which each trustee, staff member and volunteer is able to fulfil his/her potential and maximise his/her contribution.
It is the responsibility of all trustees, staff members and volunteers staff to be aware of and to apply this policy. The Board is fully committed to this policy and will endeavour to ensure its full implementation.
The HelpLine has a strong and clear commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. 2.1 Our services
The HelpLine’s policies, procedures and practices strive to promote equality and fairness amongst and between all members of the Jewish and non-Jewish communities, irrespective of their background, characteristics and current circumstances. We recognise that this allows us – trustees, staff and volunteers – actively to:
It is our policy that all eligible persons shall have equal opportunity for employment and advancement at The HelpLine on the basis of their ability, qualifications and aptitude for the work. We believe that everyone has a right to equality of opportunity and to a good and harmonious working environment where they are treated with dignity and respect.
We will aim to provide opportunities for all sections of the community and continue to strive to create an inclusive working environment in which difference is recognised and valued. Bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and giving each person the opportunity to contribute their skills and experience will help us to respond more effectively to the needs of the people we serve.
We will aim to maintain harmonious workplaces where all feel valued, respected and included, irrespective of gender (including gender reassignment) marital or civil partnership status, race or ethnic background, culture, religious belief or political opinion, disability, pregnancy or maternity, having or not having dependents, sexual orientation and age.
We will actively encourage and enable people to work or volunteer for us by (for example) offering flexible hours and taking account of caring responsibilities and commitments.
We will actively recruit staff members and volunteers who speak community languages, and who represent different community groups and cultures within the communities we serve.
This commitment is not expressed contractually but is one which all individuals associated with The HelpLine are expected to share. In order to provide high quality services, The HelpLine needs to attract, recruit, develop and retain excellent people at all levels. Our approach is based on three key principles:
We will be watchful of the dangers of too much focus on diversity and the potential for an over-emphasis on difference, alienation and stereotyping. Equally we will remain aware that too much focus on commonality can stifle innovation, and de-value different perspectives.
Upholding these principles of equality, diversity and inclusion will also allow The HelpLine to meet its legal responsibilities as an employer. They will be considered when The HelpLine’s activities are reviewed or developed and when human resources policies are
being updated.
The HelpLine Board of Trustees oversees the effective implementation of this policy. We expect all involved with The HelpLine as Trustees, staff or volunteers to abide by this policy and help to create the environment of equality, diversity and inclusion that it aims to maintain at The HelpLine.
The HelpLine is an equal opportunities employer and strives to ensure that no one is unfairly discriminated against in our recruitment or selection processes.
The HelpLine will act to ensure that its services are available to sections of the community.
This policy is reviewed by The HelpLine Board 2-yearly. Updates to the policy and staff and volunteer training are taken forward as appropriate.
The HelpLine is committed to:
To implement this policy The HelpLine will:
Reviewed
July 2024
The HelpLine is a confidential and anonymous helpline supporting individuals from the Jewish Community facing challenges