The childcare provision is committed to Equal Opportunities and good working practice in order to provide a welcoming, appropriate setting for all children, parents/carers and staff. The policy has been prepared in accordance with relevant legislation including the Disabled Persons Act 1958, 1986, Race Relations Act 1976, Sex Discrimination Act 1986, Children Act 1989, Care Standards Act 2000, SEN Code of Practice 2001, Equalities Act 2010 and the Children's and Families Act 2014.
- The childcare provision is open to all children and their families regardless of race, gender, colour, religion, ethnic or national origins, disability, sex or sexual orientation or gender reassignment.
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- The provision aims to reflect the diversity of the local community in the composition of the management committee and staff.
- Medical, dietary and cultural needs will aim to be met.
- Every endeavour will be made to provide access for all children and consideration of Special Needs and Disabilities will be discussed with parents/carers where special equipment or staffing is required in accordance with our admissions policy.
- Every effort will be made to include all children and/or staff, regardless of any disability.
- The provision will raise awareness of the needs of those facing discrimination. We will address staff training and ensure that everyone is made to feel welcome and comfortable within the setting.
- Children will be encouraged to communicate freely with any member of staff and to be involved in planning and decision making where appropriate. Every child will be valued as an individual.
- Unacceptable, offensive or discriminatory behaviour or language will not be tolerated at the provision. This will be dealt with in a sensitive manner towards the victim and by discussion with the perpetrator in order to raise their awareness of the feelings of others.
- Bullying or harassment will not be tolerated and procedures for complaint will be established.
- Parents/carers will be encouraged to discuss issues surrounding the provision or their child with staff, in accordance with the confidentiality and data protection policy. Special provision will be considered for parents to communicate with staff where necessary, e.g. British Sign Language, translator.
-The provision has a complaints policy for parents/carers.
-All staff will undertake induction training. Assessment of training needs will be undertaken on a regular basis and every attempt will be made to meet the individuals development needs. All members of staff will receive a contract and terms of employment.
-Staff will be recruited and employed under the conditions of Equal Opportunities.
-The childcare provision is committed to positive play and will reflect an awareness of diversity both in culture and disability through the choice of resources and activities.
-The Equal Opportunities Policy will be a working document and will be reviewed on a regular basis.