Our commitment to diversity

We recognise that certain groups and individuals are discriminated against unfairly. We are committed to taking positive steps to prevent this, by ensuring that equality of opportunity is an important part of all that we do. This commitment applies to what we do as a provider of housing services and as an employer.

Equality for whom?

We believe in equality of opportunity for everyone whatever their:

  • race, colour, ethnic origin or nationality
  • gender
  • disability or illness
  • religion or other beliefs
  • sexuality or sexual preference
  • age
  • domestic circumstances

Meeting housing needs

Working in partnership with local authorities and other local agencies, we will research housing needs in the areas in which we work.

Developing new homes

When we develop new homes we will ensure that where they are built and how they are designed makes them:

  • accessible to people with disabilities
  • flexible to meet people's changing needs over time

Agents who work for us

We will actively work to ensure that contractors, consultants and other agents represent a cross-section of the communities in which we work.

All contractors, consultants and agents will need to show that they have effective diversity and equalities policies before they can work for us.

Working in partnership

We will work with organisations and voluntary groups who have special skills and experience in diversity and equal opportunities and the needs of under-represented groups.

Making diversity work

The success of this policy depends on the commitment of all. We will show this commitment by:

  • giving Trustees overall responsibility for the effectiveness of the policy
  • giving the Director of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation and the senior management team overall responsibility for implementing the policy
  • setting up and checking progress towards meeting equality targets and positive action programmes
  • making sure enough resources are available to make the policy effective
  • regularly reviewing the policy with help from residents, employees and specialist organisations and groups