1. Introduction

At Serenity Haven, we are committed to fostering an environment that promotes equality and diversity within our mentoring programmes for young girls aged 11-17. We strive to create an inclusive space where every individual is valued and respected, regardless of their background or circumstances.

2. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for all mentees, mentors, and staff, ensuring that everyone is treated fairly and with respect. This policy aims to promote awareness and understanding of equality and diversity issues and to address and prevent any forms of discrimination, harassment, and victimisation within our organisation.

3. Scope

This policy applies to all employees, mentors, mentees, volunteers, and anyone working on behalf of Serenity Haven. It ensures that our commitment to equality and diversity is upheld by everyone involved in our programmes.

4. Legal Framework

Our approach to equality and diversity is guided by relevant legislation, including the Equality Act 2010, the Human Rights Act 1998, and the Children Act 1989 and 2004. These legal frameworks underpin our commitment to providing equal opportunities and protecting the rights of all individuals involved in our programmes.

5. Definitions

• Equality: Ensuring everyone has an equal opportunity and is not treated differently or discriminated against because of their characteristics.

• Diversity: Valuing and respecting the differences between people and promoting an inclusive culture.

• Discrimination: Unfair or unequal treatment of individuals based on characteristics such as age, gender, race, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or belief.

• Harassment: Unwanted behavior that makes someone feel intimidated, degraded, humiliated, or offended.

• Victimisation: Treating someone unfairly because they have made or supported a complaint about discrimination or harassment.

6. Responsibilities

Management is responsible for promoting and upholding the principles of equality and diversity, ensuring that all staff and mentors receive appropriate training. A Designated Equality and Diversity Lead will be appointed to oversee the development and implementation of policies and act as a point of contact for any concerns. All staff and mentors must understand and comply with this policy, attend regular training, promote an inclusive environment, and report any concerns to the Designated Equality and Diversity Lead.

7. Promoting Equality and Diversity

We are committed to inclusive practices, ensuring that all mentoring activities are accessible to all mentees and celebrating diversity through events and curriculum content. Any complaints of discrimination, harassment, or victimisation will be taken seriously, investigated promptly, and addressed appropriately. We will provide ongoing support and training for staff and mentors to promote understanding and implementation of equality and diversity principles, ensuring that mentees understand their rights and how to report concerns.

8. Monitoring and Evaluation

Regular monitoring and evaluation of our practices are essential to ensure they promote equality and diversity. We will gather feedback from mentees, mentors, and staff to identify areas for improvement and report our findings and actions taken to management and stakeholders.

9. Confidentiality

All concerns and complaints related to equality and diversity will be handled confidentially, sharing information only with relevant individuals and agencies on a need-to-know basis to protect the privacy of those involved.

10. Review of Policy

This policy will be reviewed annually, or more frequently if required, to ensure it remains current and effective. Regular reviews help us stay aligned with best practices and legal requirements.

Approval and Signatures

• CEO/Director: _Rosemary Folayan___ Date: 28.06.24

This policy ensures that Serenity Haven upholds its commitment to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all young girls aged 11-17 involved in our mentoring programmes. This policy will be reviewed again 28.06.25