Recognising the contribution of diversity to our society requires us to respect other individuals and to treat them fairly and with dignity. Where there is respect and good relations between groups, people are able to take an active part in decisions that affect their lives, which can enable them to fulfil their potential.

 

Direct discrimination occurs when someone is treated less favourably because they have a disability, because of their gender or sexual orientation, because they are from an ethnic minority or religious group or they are above or below a certain age.  Indirect discrimination occurs where there are rules or conditions, policies or practices in place that apply to everyone, but unfairly disadvantage some people more than others.  

 

The Equality Act 2010 has simplified the existing laws and brought them together in one piece of legislation.  It will also strengthened the laws in some areas, although the changes will be phased in over time.  This legislation will increase the rights of many other people, for example, those caring for a disabled person who are currently protected from discrimination at work under existing laws will also be protected from discrimination and harassment when shopping for goods and services, using public facilities such as cafes, libraries and public transport.  For a summary of the new legislation please visit http://www.adviceguide.org.uk/index/equlity_act_2010_overview.pdf

 

If you think you have been treated unfairly or have been discriminated against because of your age, gender, sexual orientation, race, religious beliefs or disability, or by your association with someone, there is a wide range of legislation, information and contacts to help you understand and enforce your rights. For further information visit the Equality & Human Rights Commission.

 

 

The Advice & Support centre is located upstairs in the Students’ Union, can provide you with advice and information on a wide range of equality and diversity issues concerning your education, employment, accommodation or goods and services.  

 

 

 

SURHUL is an equal opportunities employer and is currently gathering information to assess the diversity its staff from time to time.  The information is made available on this website in due course.

 

There is a disabled access lift to ensure that anyone who has difficulty using the stairs can access the facilities and offices on the first floor. The lift can be opened with a key that is available from the Students’ Union Reception Office. Any student who would like their own key can also obtain one at Reception, although a £5 returnable deposit is required.

 

New signage, with Braille, has been installed around the Students' Union building for the benefit of our visually impaired members and visitors.

 

We would be happy to hear from anyone who has had any problems accessing our services or who has any equality and diversity issues that they would like addressed (see contacts below).

 

What is the Students’ Union doing to raise awareness of equality and diversity issues?

Developing Disability & Gender Equality Schemes & Action Plans.

Developing Equality & Diversity training for elected officers and staff.

Providing Disability Awareness Training to welfare staff.

Equality and Diversity Officer ensures that no group goes unheard, and that everyone has an equal chance of achieving their best at Royal Holloway.

Running campaigns throughout the year, e.g. D-Day to raise awareness of the Disability Discrimination Act and who is affected by it.

 

 

 

 

For all membership queries, please contact the Students' Union's Inclusion and Representation Officer.  For all staff matters relating to Equality and Diversity, please contact the SU HR Advisor. For any other queries please contact the Advice & Support Centre.