1. Our Commitment
At Level Up Gosport (LUPG), we believe that everyone matters. No matter who you are, where you come from, or what challenges you face, you are welcome here.
We are committed to creating a space where:
• People feel safe
• People feel respected
• People feel included
• People can be themselves without fear of judgement or discrimination
This policy applies to:
• Young people who use our services;
• Staff members;
• Volunteers;
• Trustees.
We follow the values of our founder members, who believe that:
EDI Policy 2025 Level Up Gosport Charity No. 1199682 “No matter what the circumstances of a person’s life, we are all valuable. We want to work for the greater good and show that we are all human and equal.”
2. What We Mean by Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
• Equality means everyone gets fair treatment and equal access to opportunities and support.
• Diversity means recognising and valuing our differences.
• Inclusion means making sure everyone feels welcome, listened to, and able to take part.
We understand that people have different needs. Equality does not mean treating everyone the same – it means giving people the right support so they can fully participate.
3. Legal Protection and Who This Policy Protects
We follow the Equality Act 2010.
No one will be treated unfairly because of their:
• Age;
• Disability (including physical disabilities, learning disabilities,
neurodiversity, and mental health conditions);
• Race, nationality, or ethnic background;
• Religion or belief (or having none);
• Sex or gender;
• Gender reassignment;
• Sexual orientation;
• Marriage or civil partnership;
• Pregnancy or maternity;
• Socio-economic background or class;
• Caring responsibilities;
• Menopause or periods;
• Parental leave (including shared parental leave, adoption leave, and paternity leave);
• Health conditions or any other personal characteristic.
This applies to:
• Access to our services;
• How people are treated while involved with LUPG;
• Recruitment, training, and support for staff and volunteers.
No one will receive a less favourable service or experience because of any of the above.
4. Discrimination, Bullying and Harassment
LUPG has zero tolerance for discrimination, bullying, or harassment.
This includes:
• Direct discrimination
When someone is treated worse than others because of who they are.
• Indirect discrimination
When a rule or policy unintentionally puts someone at a disadvantage.
• Harassment
Unwanted behaviour that makes someone feel uncomfortable, unsafe, or distressed.
• Victimisation
Treating someone badly because they raised a concern or supported someone else to do so.
Discrimination can be intentional or unintentional — both are taken seriously.
5. How We Put This Policy into Practice
We will:
• Treat everyone with respect and dignity;
• Listen to people’s experiences and needs;
• Make reasonable adjustments so people can take part fully;
• Avoid labelling, stereotyping, or making assumptions about anyone;
• Celebrate differences and lived experiences;
• Actively reach out to people from communities who may feel excluded or unheard;
6. Staff and Volunteers
All staff and youth volunteers:
• Are briefed when they join LUPG;
• Are expected not to make or accept discriminatory behaviour;
• Must report any concerns they see or experience;
• Read and follow our Safeguarding, Grievance, and Behaviour policies.
Everyone involved with LUPG shares responsibility for keeping our environment safe and inclusive.
7. Reporting Concerns or Incidents
If something doesn’t feel right, you have the right to speak up.
You will be listened to and supported.
You can report concerns by speaking to:
• Option 1: A Support Worker
• Option 2: The HR Lead Trustee
• Option 3: The Chair of Trustees
You can find more information about reporting procedures in:
• The Staff Handbook
• The Volunteer Policy
(Available at the office)
8. Responsibility and Review
The Trustee Board has overall responsibility for making sure this policy is followed.
By following this policy, we aim to:
• Act lawfully and fairly;
• Create a welcoming and supportive environment;
• Improve wellbeing, participation and trust;
• Take appropriate action when the policy is not followed.
9. Final Statement
At Level Up Gosport, difference is not a problem — it is a strength. We are committed to learning, improving, and standing alongside young people to create a community where everyone can belong and thrive.
The LUPG Disciplinary Procedure will be used only when necessary and as a last resort. Where possible, informal and/or formal counselling or other good management practice will be used to resolve matters prior to any disciplinary action being taken. The procedure is intended to be positive rather than punitive, but takes cognisance of the fact that sanctions may have to be applied in some circumstances.
An employee can discuss any part of this Policy with their Union Representative or with a Trustee. They can help clarify an employee’s rights as well as give guidance and support where it may be needed. Every individual has the right to representation at any point during the disciplinary process.
