Equality, Diversity And Inclusion Policy

Equality means that individuals enjoy the same opportunities and treatment as anyone else, regardless of their characteristics or status. The Equality Act 2010 provides a legal framework to protect the rights of individuals. The Act identifies a set of protected characteristics: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, and sexual orientation. Discrimination against an individual based on one or more of these characteristics is unlawful. In its simplest terms, diversity means difference. British society, especially in cities, is a diverse one. We see people of different races, religions, sexual orientation, gender, and age. Additionally, there is diversity in physical, sensory, and cognitive abilities. Celebrating this diversity is crucial, as it fosters a sense of value and belonging for all our citizens. This includes recognizing inclusive ceremonies, such as civil partnership ceremonies, where everyone can feel accepted and valued. As a wedding celebrant, it's essential to promote and support this inclusivity in every ceremony.

I celebrate diversity and am committed to equality and inclusion in all aspects of my work as a wedding celebrant. I will treat all clients, suppliers, and guests with respect, dignity, and fairness, ensuring that everyone feels welcome during my inclusive ceremonies. I will provide services to all, without prejudice. I will not unlawfully discriminate because of the Equality Act 2010 protected characteristics of: age; disability (including cognitive and sensory impairment); gender reassignment; marriage and civil partnership; pregnancy and maternity; race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origin); religion or belief; sex; sexual orientation. In addition to the protected characteristics set out in the Equality Act 2010, I will not discriminate on the grounds of gender identity, neurodiversity, or mental health conditions.

In my first contact with couples and families, I will establish their preferred pronouns and titles, ensuring that all interactions during our planning for civil partnership ceremonies and inclusive ceremonies respect these choices. I will ask couples and families whether they or any of their guests have additional needs, such as mobility issues, language issues, neurodivergence, or sensory impairment, and I will make every effort to accommodate those needs. I will liaise with the venue and other suppliers if necessary to ensure that clients and/or guests with additional needs have the appropriate support for their ceremony. Extra support can come in various forms, from a space on the end of a row for wheelchair users to allowing extra thinking time in meetings and the ceremony to prevent overload, or even providing a BSL/Makaton signed interpreter. Where these services are offered by a third party, there may be an additional cost, and I can assist with sourcing this in advance. Before any event, I will check the venue to ensure ease of access for all, including wheelchair ramps, accessible parking, removal of obstructions, clear sight lines, and the proper functioning of any supportive technology in place. When present at events, I will respectfully challenge any discriminatory behavior I encounter from venue staff, suppliers, guests, or clients. I will take seriously any complaint of discriminatory behavior brought to me, and in the event of a serious offense, I will escalate the issue to venue management if needed. I will engage in continuous professional training to stay updated with developments, legislation, and guidance around diversity, equality, and inclusion. This policy will be updated in line with any changes in guidance or legislation, or other developments in the field.