Equality, diversity and inclusion policy

Play Badminton Club is committed to encouraging equality, diversity and inclusion among our members, and eliminating unlawful discrimination.

The aim is for our members to be truly representative of all sections of society, and for each member to feel respected and able to give their best.

We also committed against unlawful discrimination of members or the public.

The policy’s purpose is to:

• provide equality, fairness and respect for all in our members, whether pay-as-you-go or regular members;
• not unlawfully discriminate because of the Equality Act 2010 protected characteristics of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origin), religion or belief, sex and sexual orientation;
• oppose and avoid all forms of unlawful discrimination. This includes in membership fees and benefits, terms and conditions of membership, dealing with grievances and discipline, suspension or termination of membership.

We aim to:

• Encourage equality, diversity and inclusion in the Club as they are good practice and make sporting sense;
• Create a playing environment free of bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination, promoting dignity and respect for all, and where individual differences and the contributions of all members are recognised and valued;

This commitment includes training all members about their rights and responsibilities under the equality, diversity and inclusion policy. Responsibilities include members conducting themselves to prevent bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination.

All members should understand they can be held liable for acts of bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination, against fellow members, Club organisers, sports venue staff and the public.

We take seriously complaints of bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination by fellow members (including complaints from the public against members) and any others in the course of our Club activities.

Such acts will be dealt with as misconduct under the Club's grievance and/or disciplinary procedures, and appropriate action will be taken. Particularly serious complaints could amount to gross misconduct and lead to termination of membership without notice or explanation.

Furthermore, sexual harassment may amount to a criminal matter, such as in sexual assault allegations. In addition, harassment under the Protection from Harassment Act 1997 – which is not limited to circumstances where harassment relates to a protected characteristic – is a criminal offence.

Decisions concerning members being based on merit (apart from in any necessary and limited exemptions and exceptions allowed under the Equality Act).

We may update or amend this Policy, to take account of changes in the law, without notice.

We shall monitor the make-up of the membership regarding information such as age, sex, ethnic background, sexual orientation, religion or belief, and disability in encouraging equality, diversity and inclusion, and in meeting the aims and commitments set out in the equality, diversity and inclusion policy.

Monitoring will also include assessing how the equality, diversity and inclusion policy, and any supporting action plan, are working in practice, reviewing them periodically, and considering and taking action to address any issues.

This equality, diversity and inclusion policy is fully supported by the Club organisers.