UELSU University of East London Students Union Equal Opportunities Policy

3.1 UELSU recognises that in our society power is not held equally and that groups and individuals have been and continue to be discriminated against.

3.2 Statement of Intent

3.2a UELSU aims to create the conditions whereby all individuals may contribute as fully as possible without fear of unfair discriminatory attitudes and practices.

3.2b In order to ensure there is a positive atmosphere, UELSU seeks to create and sustain a welcoming environment for all its users both inside and outside UELSU buildings and properties.

3.3 Principles

3.3a Discrimination, direct or indirect, based on grounds which may include: ability (physical, mental or sensory in origin), age, appearance, asylum status, caring responsibilities, creed, gender, HIV status, family or marital status, medical conditions (which are not relevant to their function within UELSU), nationality, political beliefs (which are not deemed by UELSU to be in contradiction with the principles of this policy), race (cultural, ethnic or national origin), religious beliefs, sexual orientation, social and economic background or any other similar distinction are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

3.3b In addition, such forms of discrimination represent a waste of human resources and a denial of the opportunity for individual fulfilment to the detriment of UELSU as a whole, and to the wider society.

3.3c Equal opportunity policies can only succeed with the active support of the whole organisation and UELSU seeks to involve all sections of students, officers and staff in the continued development and implementation of its policy and related activities.

3.4 Equal Opportunities in Practice

3.4a UELSU recognises that an Equal Opportunities Policy can only be effective if it is understood by all individuals involved in the Union and if it is incorporated into recruitment, recreational and working practice and monitored on a regular basis with feedback encouraged.

3.4b The Equal Opportunities Policy should be widely publicised in order that students, officers and staff are aware of their rights and responsibilities in relation to best practice in Equal Opportunities.

3.4c Physical access to and facilities within UELSU buildings should provide all users with an equal opportunity to participate in UELSU activities and services. Where current provision is inadequate, it should be investigated and remedied.