Our Commitment
We are an equal opportunities organisation and an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to:
- Eliminating discrimination, harassment and victimisation
- Advancing equality of opportunity
- Fostering good relations between people with different backgrounds, experiences and identities
We aim not only to comply with the law, but to judge equality by outcomes, ensuring those who are least powerful are well protected.
What Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Equity Mean to Us
- Equality – Everyone has fair access to opportunities and support
- Diversity – We celebrate and value difference
- Inclusion – Everyone feels they belong and their contribution matters
- Equity – We recognise barriers and take action to remove them
These principles guide our decisions and everyday practice
Who This Policy Applies To
This policy applies to everyone connected to Orpheus, including:
- Learners and alumni
- Staff and volunteers
- Trustees and employers
- Contractors, partners, parents and carers
- Visitors and members of the public
It covers all areas of work, including recruitment, learning, care, housing, employment, volunteering and community engagement
Protected Characteristics
We do not tolerate discrimination based on any protected characteristic, including:
- Age
- Disability
- Sex or gender identity
- Gender reassignment
- Race, ethnicity or nationality
- Religion or belief
- Sexual orientation
- Pregnancy or maternity
- Marriage or civil partnership
We also recognise that people may face discrimination due to socio‑economic background or disadvantage, and we are committed to addressing this too
How We Put This into Practice
We work to ensure:
- Recruitment, learning and employment practices are fair and unbiased
- Learning environments are safe, welcoming and inclusive
- Reasonable adjustments are made where needed
- Equality Impact Assessments inform key decisions
- Equality data is monitored to identify and address gaps in outcomes
Roles & Responsibilities
- Trustees provide oversight and leadership on EDI
- CEO holds overall responsibility for EDI across Orpheus
- COO leads on EDI objectives, action planning and reporting
- Managers promote inclusive practice and address concerns promptly
- All staff and volunteers are responsible for challenging inappropriate language or behaviour
- Learners are expected to treat others with dignity and respect, on and off campus
Tackling Discrimination & Harassment
Any form of discrimination, harassment or victimisation is taken seriously and may lead to disciplinary action.
Where concerns are raised:
- Issues are handled sensitively and fairly
- Investigations are thorough and proportionate
- Individuals are supported throughout the process
Social Inclusion & Participation
We actively support learners to:
- Stay connected with family, friends and communities
- Access local services and activities
- Participate in civic and democratic life, including voting
- Maintain their identity while being part of the wider community
Cultural Respect & Creativity
We value cultural exchange while recognising the risks of cultural appropriation. We work with learners to ensure creativity:
- Is based on consent, respect and collaboration
- Properly credits and values cultural sources
- Centres the wishes and choices of learners themselves
Training & Continuous Improvement
- All staff complete mandatory EDI training, refreshed every two years
- Progress is reviewed regularly by senior leaders and trustees
- Learning from incidents and feedback is used to improve practice
Our Promise
At Orpheus, we are committed to creating an environment where:
- Everyone is valued and respected
- Difference is celebrated
- Barriers are challenged and removed
- People can be themselves and reach their full potential
