CAA Equal Opportunity and Anti-Discrimination Policy

Policy Document

CAA Equal Opportunity and Anti-Discrimination Policy

Date last updated: 10 April 2025

Contents Scope Principles Legal Framework Commitments Reporting and Resolution Responsibilities Monitoring and Review

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The Commonwealth Association of Architects (the Association) is committed to providing equal opportunities for all and preventing unlawful discrimination. This policy sets out the principles and practices that guide the Association in ensuring fairness, equity, and respect within the workplace and in all its activities.

Scope This policy applies to all Trustees, Council and Committee Members, volunteers, employees, contractors, partners, and collaborators of the Association.

Principles The Association is guided by the following principles: • • •

Equal access to opportunities for all, regardless of personal characteristics or circumstances Zero tolerance for unlawful discrimination, harassment, or victimisation.

Commitment to fostering a workplace culture that supports and reflect diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Legal Framework The Association complies with the UK Equality Act 2010 and its provisions to ensure that no individual is discriminated against based on the following protected characteristics: • • • • • • • • •

Age Disability gender reassignment marriage and partnership pregnancy and maternity race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origin) religion or belief sex sexual orientation

Commitments To uphold this policy, the Association commits to: • • •

Recruitment and Selection: Ensuring that decisions are based solely on merit, skills, and abilities, and that job opportunities are open to all.

Workplace Environment: Providing a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment free from bullying, harassment, and victimisation.

Training and Development: Offering equitable access to training and development opportunities to support the growth and potential of all staff and volunteers.

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Pay and Benefits: Maintaining fairness and transparency in pay, benefits, and other terms of engagement.

Monitoring and Review: Regularly reviewing practices, policies, and procedures to ensure compliance with equal opportunity standards and effectiveness in achieving inclusivity.

Reporting and Resolution The Association encourages anyone who believes they have been subjected to unlawful discrimination, harassment, or victimisation to raise their concerns through the Grievance Procedure outlined in the CAA Grievance and Disciplinary Policy. All reports will be treated seriously and investigated impartially and confidentially.

Responsibilities All members of the Association have a responsibility to uphold the principles outlined in this policy. Leaders and managers are expected to act as role models in promoting equality and challenging discriminatory behaviours.

Monitoring and Review This policy has been approved by CAA Council. It will be reviewed annually to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with legal requirements.

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Date of last review Next review due

: 10 April 2025 : 09 April 2026

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