Equal opportunities for everyone in the community was a top priority at a recent Peasedown St John’s Parish Council meeting.
The council has adopted a new Equal Opportunities and Anti-Discrimination Policy, which means that anyone who has dealings with the organisation will be treated no differently from anyone else.
Chairman of the Parish Council, Cllr Andy Fraser, said: “We are committed to providing equal opportunities and non-discrimination in employment, and in all our dealings with staff, councillors, clients and members of the public.
“The Parish Council wants anyone who has correspondence with us to know that equality and diversity matter, and we respect and appreciate the contributions provided by all parishioners.”
In 2010, the new Equality Act was adopted by central government giving special recognition and protection to people based on the following characteristics:
– Age
– Disability
– Gender Reassignment
– Marriage and Civil Partnership
– Sex (Gender)
– Pregnancy and Maternity (a protected characteristic separate to sex)
– Race
– Religion or Belief
– Sexual Orientation
The Parish Council’s new policy also highlights the priority given to employing staff based on skills and experience, as opposed anything else that may differentiate candidates when applying for a post. It also outlines the importance the council gives to providing a high quality response service.
Cllr Fraser added: “We shall provide a non-discriminatory, high standard of service to all our residents. Decisions will be made only on the basis of the best information and advice available to us and will be delivered in the most appropriate form to meet the needs of those we are elected to service.”
For a copy of the new Equal Opportunities and Anti-Discrimination Policy contact the Parish Office.
For more details visit www.peasedownstjohnparishcouncil.gov.uk or contact Peasedown St John Parish Council by calling 01761 433686 or emailing [email protected]
