LOVE LOCAL CIC'S EQUALITY & DIVERSITY POLICY
Last updated November 01, 2025
This Policy is for Love Local Essex And Suffolk CIC ('we', 'us', or 'our'); an independent gift shop and overseeing The Work Room, a hireable space for a range of creative activities.
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1. Policy Statement Love Local CIC is committed to promoting equality, valuing diversity, and fostering an inclusive environment for everyone involved in our organisation - including employees, volunteers, customers, suppliers, and the wider community. We believe that diversity strengthens our community hub and enhances creativity, collaboration, and wellbeing. Inclusivity isn't just a buzzword for us -it's woven into the heart of our business. At Love Local CIC, we pride ourselves on being a welcome & inclusive environment for anyone who wants to browse, shop, chat, or attend an event in The Workroom. We are dedicated to ensuring that no one is treated less favourably, discriminated against, or harassed on the grounds of: - Age - Disability - Gender or gender identity - Marital or civil partnership status - Pregnancy or maternity - Race, ethnicity, or national origin - Religion or belief (or lack thereof) - Sex - Sexual orientation - Socio-economic background or any other characteristic protected by law. Our goal is to create a welcoming environment in which everyone feels respected, supported, and empowered to participate fully in our activities.
2. Purpose This policy outlines how Love Local CIC ensures equality of opportunity and inclusion in: - Recruitment and employment - Service delivery and customer experience - Community engagement and partnership work - Volunteer involvement - Procurement and supplier relationships It supports our mission to celebrate local creativity, strengthen community connections, and operate fairly and ethically.
3. Our Commitments Love Local CIC will: -Promote equality and diversity in all areas of our operations. - Provide fair access to services, employment, and volunteering opportunities. - Challenge discrimination and prejudice, whether direct, indirect, or by association. - Listen to and value all voices, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to contribute. - Take proactive steps to identify and remove barriers to participation. - Provide training and support to staff and volunteers to promote inclusive practices. - Comply fully with the Equality Act 2010 and all relevant legislation.
4. Responsibilities - Directors and Managers are responsible for leading by example, promoting equality in decision-making, and ensuring compliance with this policy. - Employees and Volunteers are expected to treat colleagues, customers, and community members with respect and dignity, and to report any discriminatory behaviour. - Partners, Suppliers, and Contractors are expected to uphold these principles in their dealings with Love Local CIC.
5. Implementation & Monitoring We will: - Regularly review recruitment, training, and operational procedures to ensure equality of opportunity. - Monitor feedback from staff, volunteers, and customers to identify areas for improvement. - Report annually to the CIC Board on equality and diversity outcomes. - Review this policy every two years (or sooner if legislation changes).
6. Complaints & Concerns Any person who believes they have been treated unfairly or discriminated against can raise their concern with the Managing Director or Board of Directors. Complaints will be handled promptly, confidentially, and without fear of victimisation.
7. Review & Approval Approved by the Board of Directors of Love Local CIC. Date: November 2025 Next Review Due: November 2027 Names : Rhianna Essex & Kim Ing Position: Directors