Values and Commitment
Valuing diversity and ensuring equality opportunities are fundamental to the way we work at Westcountry. We recognise the contribution made by diverse communities to our local areas’ economic, social and cultural well being. We strongly oppose all forms of unfair discrimination because this prevents individuals from developing into their full potential and playing an active role in their neighbourhoods and communities.
Policy and Strategy
We have a comprehensive Equality and Diversity Policy and Strategy which covers the procedures and systems established to measure and monitor our performance, both in eliminating discrimination and in implementing good practice.
Equality and Diversity Group
We have an Equality and Diversity Group which comprises representatives from staff, residents and our Board Members. Within the group there are 4 nominated champions, the Board champion, and gender, race and disability champions. We are in the process of nominating age, sexual orientation and religion and belief champions. The group meets every three months to manage the Association’s Equality and Diversity Action Plan. This includes critically assessing the monitoring statistics, action points and identifying any areas of concern and suggestions for continuous improvement.
We are also members of a housing partnership group Housing With Respect which represents and supports Black and Ethnic Minority tenants of the region and holds a fantastic annual event in Plymouth to promote and celebrate diversity. We also support the similar Respect Festival held in Exeter.
Access to Our Services and Homes
We will make sure that all people have equal access to our services and in particular take into account the needs of disabled, vulnerable and particularly disadvantaged groups. We will ensure all our communications are available in translation, large print, Braille and on audio tape. We will provide an induction hearing loop where necessary and this can be provided in portable form. People can contact us using Typetalk; see our 'Contact Us' page. Our main offices meet the requirements of the Disability Discrimination Act, which include wheelchair access, and disabled parking.
Click on the links to read our:
Achieving Equality - tenant handbook leaflet
Equality Diversity Policy Strategy April 2007
Westward Equality and Diveristy Action Plan Oct 2008
Accessible information policy and guidelines Nov 2007
BME Housing Strategy October 2008
Community Cohesion Strategy September 2007
Gender Equality Scheme
Disability Equality Scheme
Positive About Disability or Double Tick Symbol