equality and diversity
BECTU is dedicated to providing education and training for all its members, representatives and activists that aspires to the highest standards of respect for difference and diversity.
This statement of policy is inspired by our trade union values of justice, fairness, democracy, solidarity and equality. As a trade union we are opposed to any view, action or organisation that undermines the ability of working people to act collectively in pursuit of their democratically determined policies and objectives.
We are opposed to discrimination against people on the basis of their gender, nationality, ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, social class, age, politics or education. We defend the right to freedom of expression and to political opinions and beliefs except where these conflict with or tend to undermine the freedom of other people from discrimination on the grounds listed above. In particular we are opposed to sexist, racist and fascist ideologies and will not permit such views to be promoted at BECTU education events.
We will seek to ensure that all BECTU education and training provision will be accessible to all who wish to attend. Recruitment to courses will be open, fair and in line with our commitments above. All courses will allow opinions to be put forward and defended (consistent with the statement above). All members who attend BECTU courses are entitled to respect.
If any member wishes to raise issues relating to our commitment to equality and diversity or if they wish to lodge a complaint about any incident or failure concerning this policy, they should use the following procedure:
- Any issue occurring during a course to be raised with the tutor;
- If this is not practicable or if the complaint is not dealt with to the satisfaction of the member, then it should be raised with;
- The BECTU Training Officer, or if he is not available;
- A National Official
- If a member is not satisfied they should then refer the matter to the General Secretary.
If you wish to discuss any issues covered in this policy please contact:
Brian Kelly, Training Officer, BECTU - bkelly@bectu.org.uk
Download a copy of the policy 