VIRGINIA (POLLY) SMITH COUNSELLING in conjunction with OXFORD COUNSELLING CENTRE
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES POLICY
Equality and justice is core to Virginia (Polly) Smith Counselling ethos and this policy sets out to demonstrate my stance on equal opportunities for anyone engaging with my services.
Definitions
Equal opportunities
By adhering to equal opportunities regulations I agree to act fairly and prevent any direct or indirect discrimination on the grounds of sex, disability, race, marital status, employment status, age, sexual orientation or religion, or any association with any of these protected characteristics.
Legal Considerations
The Equality Act passed into law April 2010. The Act aims to harmonise the fragmented discrimination legislation and introduced some new restrictions. The Equality Act (2010) sets out protected characteristics. It defines direct discrimination and indirect discrimination, Harassment, Discrimination arising from disability, Pre-employment questionnaires, Equal pay and Secrecy clauses.
Virginia (Polly) Smith Counselling aims to comply with the legislation on discrimination and equality and as far as practicable, ensure that my counselling service is accessible to all. All Clients will be considered for counselling regardless of sex, race, marital status, disability, age, part-time or fixed term contract status, sexual orientation or religion. Any allowances for people with disabilities to access counselling will be made as far as possible.
I also commit to
- Respect and treat all clients equally and offer counselling without prejudice
- Treat other staff members and counsellors with respect
- Continue to engage in equalities and diversity training
