Equality and Diversity Policy

Updated December 2025

Introduction 

Friends of the Ullswater Way (“FOUW”, “we”, “us”) is committed to ensuring that everyone who engages with our work feels valued, respected and included. As a small volunteer-led charity, we aim to create welcoming, accessible and inclusive opportunities for people to participate in our events, talks, walks and projects.

This policy sets out our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion in line with good governance practice. All trustees, volunteers and partners acting on behalf of FOUW are expected to follow it.

This policy may be updated from time to time.

1. Aims

FOUW celebrates the diversity of people who live in, work in, and visit the Ullswater Valley, and we aim to ensure that our activities, meetings, talks and volunteering opportunities are open to all.

We do not tolerate discrimination on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment (including gender identity), marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.

Our aim is to foster an atmosphere of friendliness, curiosity and mutual respect as we learn about and celebrate the cultural and natural heritage of Ullswater.

2. Accessibility

We are committed to making our activities and events as accessible as possible. To support this, we will:

  • host events, talks and meetings in venues that are wheelchair accessible wherever possible

  • provide clear information in advance about access arrangements for venues, paths, and outdoor activities (including gradient, distance and surfaces)

  • offer adjustments when requested — for example, reserved seating, step-free access routes, or early entry 

  • provide online access to talks as standard practice, unless there are technical or venue limitations

  • consider offering free or discounted places for carers when needed to support participation in paid activities

  • regularly review our access arrangements so that we can meet the needs of new supporters, volunteers or participants.

3. Diversity

FOUW welcomes a wide range of communities, perspectives and experiences.

We aim to:

  • organise talks, walks and activities that reflect the diverse history, ecology and culture of the Ullswater Valley

  • encourage people from all backgrounds to participate in our projects, contribute ideas, and share knowledge

  • remain open to new suggestions for events, topics, or approaches that widen participation and reflect community interests.

4. Inclusion and Respect

Everyone involved with FOUW should feel equally welcome and included.

We expect all volunteers, trustees and participants to:

  • treat others with dignity and respect

  • be open and honest in their interactions

  • use language and behaviour that is inclusive and considerate

  • avoid making or sharing sexist, racist, homophobic, transphobic, ableist or otherwise discriminatory or inflammatory remarks

  • approach sensitive heritage issues with empathy and openness.

FOUW does not tolerate harassment, bullying or discriminatory behaviour. Such behaviour is considered misconduct and may lead to action under our governance procedures.

5. Dealing with Discrimination or Harassment

If any participant, volunteer or attendee feels they have been discriminated against or has experienced harassment at a FOUW event, they should raise this with a trustee as soon as possible.

FOUW will:

  • take concerns seriously

  • listen to everyone involved

  • handle the matter sensitively and confidentially

  • take appropriate action where behaviour falls short of our standards

Concerns relating to behaviour, discrimination or harassment will be managed in line with FOUW’s Complaints Policy, which sets out the formal process for recording, investigating and responding to complaints.

FOUW will support people who raise concerns and will not victimise them for doing so.

6. Responsibilities

All trustees, volunteers and supporters participating in FOUW activities share responsibility for upholding this policy. This includes:

  • challenging discriminatory behaviour

  • encouraging inclusivity

  • helping ensure that events and activities are welcoming and accessible

  • bringing concerns to the trustees when issues arise

The Board of Trustees hold overall responsibility for monitoring the implementation of this policy.

7. Review

This Equality and Diversity Policy will be reviewed every 2 years or sooner if required by legislation or organisational needs.