1. Statement of Intent:

Investors In Community has, as its central value, a belief in equal opportunities. We recognise that many groups and individuals within society have been and continue to be discriminated against, both directly and indirectly, on the grounds of, for example, their race, nationality, ethnic or cultural origins, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion, political belief, social class, employment status, low income, mental health, marital status, HIV/AIDS status, appearance, refugee status, caring responsibilities and unrelated criminal conviction.

Investors In Community will demonstrate this commitment to equal opportunities by:

• working in an anti-discriminatory manner;
• requiring committee members and volunteers to promote and act on this policy;
• requiring our members to respect this policy;
• recognising its responsibilities under all relevant anti-discriminatory legislation, including the Human Rights Act 1998;
• following the requirements and guidance of the Equality Act 2010:
• listening to the voices of users and consumers who are experiencing discrimination;
• encouraging co-operation, networking, consultation, participation and negotiation between voluntary and statutory agencies in a way which promotes equal opportunities.

2. Services

The services of Investors In Community are available to all members of the community. However, in recognition of the disadvantages and discrimination faced by certain sectors of the community, we will take steps to make our services accessible to people experiencing disability or who have varying cultural needs.

3. Publicity

In publicity and information materials, Investors In Community will try to:

• avoid jargon and use clear, direct language;
• use positive images of a wide range of groups;
• reach all sections of the community by advertising in a wide range of appropriate publications and locations.