Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Policy

Be Well HKers CIC

1. Our Commitment

Be Well HKers CIC (“the CIC”) is committed to promoting equality, valuing diversity, and fostering inclusion in all that we do. We aim to create a welcoming, respectful, and supportive environment for everyone we engage with, including directors, staff, volunteers, partners, beneficiaries, and the wider community.

We are committed to eliminating unlawful discrimination and ensuring that our activities, services, and opportunities are accessible, fair, and inclusive.

2. Purpose of the Policy

This policy aims to:

  • Promote equality, fairness, and mutual respect in all CIC activities
  • Ensure no individual is treated less favourably or excluded
  • Comply with the Equality Act 2010 and relevant UK legislation
  • Support a culture where differences are recognised, respected, and valued

We will not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of the protected characteristics defined by the Equality Act 2010, including:

  • Age
  • Disability
  • Gender reassignment
  • Marriage or civil partnership
  • Pregnancy and maternity
  • Race (including colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin)
  • Religion or belief
  • Sex
  • Sexual orientation

3. Scope

This policy applies to:

  • Directors and officers of the CIC
  • Paid staff and volunteers
  • Service users and participants
  • Contractors, partners, and suppliers
  • Anyone engaged in or affected by our activities

4. Our Commitments

Be Well HKers CIC will:

  • Promote equality, diversity, and inclusion as core values underpinning our community wellbeing work
  • Provide a safe environment free from bullying, harassment, victimisation, and unlawful discrimination
  • Treat everyone with dignity, respect, and fairness
  • Ensure decisions relating to volunteering, participation, training, leadership, or representation are based on merit, ability, and community need
  • Take reasonable steps to remove barriers to participation, particularly for migrant communities and those facing disadvantage

5. Responsibilities

All individuals involved with Be Well HKers CIC are expected to:

  • Treat others with respect and fairness
  • Challenge inappropriate behaviour where safe to do so
  • Act in ways that support inclusion and community wellbeing
  • Understand that bullying, harassment, victimisation, or discrimination may result in action being taken

6. Complaints and Concerns

Any complaints of bullying, harassment, victimisation, or unlawful discrimination will be taken seriously and handled sensitively and promptly. Appropriate action will be taken in line with our safeguarding, complaints, and disciplinary procedures. Serious matters may be escalated to relevant authorities where required.

7. Training and Awareness

Where appropriate, we will provide guidance, training, or resources to support understanding of equality, diversity, and inclusion, particularly in community, volunteer, and leadership roles.

8. Monitoring and Review

This policy will be reviewed annually by the CIC directors to ensure it remains effective, relevant, and compliant with legal and best-practice requirements.

9. Approval

This Diversity, Equality and Inclusion Policy is approved and endorsed by the directors of Be Well HKers CIC.

End of Policy