Equality Policy

The purpose of The Open College equality policy is to:

• Identify our commitment to combating discrimination, accommodating diversity and promoting equality
• Promote equality of access, participation and outcome for all our Learners
• Ensure that we have a firm commitment to meet our obligations under the Equal Status Acts 2000 to 2015 which prohibits discrimination (including harassment, sexual harassment and victimisation) in educational establishments for Learners    across the nine equality grounds

This policy has been developed in consultation with our staff members and with diverse groups of Learners.

The Open College seeks to ensure that the services that it provides:

• Are free from discrimination, sexual harassment, harassment and victimisation
• Accommodate diversity among all Learners and meet the needs that are specific to particular groups of Learners
• Make reasonable accommodation for Learners with disabilities
• Seek to benefit all Learners by promoting equality and implementing positive action measures where necessary.  The Open College will not tolerate discrimination, sexual harassment, harassment or victimisation of Learners by employees or non-employees, such as other service users or contractors

The Open College seeks to ensure that the diverse needs of all Learners including those from across the groups covered by equality legislation are taken into account in the planning, design and delivery of its programmes and related services

In the matter of complaints, a complaints / grievance procedure is established under this equal status policy.  The Open College will treat all complaints by Learners with fairness and sensitivity and in a confidential manner

In the matter of Communication with Learners, all study and other materials produced for and by The Open College will be provided in a relevant and accessible manner to all Learners

In the matter of Service User feedback, The Open College encourages the participation of Learners in our feedback system which includes:

• Learner questionnaires / feedback forms/ web site questionnaires
• Learner / tutor meetings, Guidance Service / Student Support Officer / Learner    Meetings
• Learner panels / focus groups
• Regular meetings with representative organisations.