Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging Policy

1. Vision

The Northern College of Acupuncture (NCA) is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive culture which ensures equality and opportunity for all by eliminating unlawful discrimination, advancing equality of opportunity, and promoting respectful relations across our institution.

We maintain a zero-tolerance approach to bullying, harassment or discrimination; all people must have the opportunity to realise their full potential in a supportive environment.

Inclusion is a core value underpinning all that we do and is embedded in our activities, culture, and policies.

2. Aims

This policy seeks to:

• Promote positive attitudes toward diversity and inclusion to ensure fair and respectful treatment for all.

• Prevent less favourable treatment based on protected characteristics as outlined in the Equality Act 2010.

• Embed belonging by nurturing an environment of acceptance and mutual respect.

• Align with current legislation through compliant policies and procedures.

3. Our Values

Person-centred

Quality

Progressive

Sustainable

Community

Integrity

4. Definitions

Diversity: Diversity is the recognition, respect, and valuing of differences among people, encompassing a wide range of characteristics such as race, gender, age, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, and background. It involves understanding and appreciating that everyone is unique and different.

Equality: Equality: every individual or group has the same rights and opportunities, and is treated fairly without discrimination based on their background or identity.

Inclusion: an approach that values diversity and ensures all students learn together, regardless of their background, abilities, or learning needs.

Belonging: Creating a psychologically safe culture where everyone feels valued and part of the community. Belonging in education is a sense of being personally accepted, respected, and supported within the school community, which is strongly linked to academic success, motivation, and well-being.

5. Protected Characteristics

We prohibit discrimination based on:

• Age

• Disability

• Gender Reassignment

• Marriage and Civil Partnership

• Pregnancy and Maternity

• Race

• Religion or Belief

• Sex

• Sexual Orientation

6. Belonging

We provide support systems including:

• For Staff: Mental Health First Aiders, HR, counselling, Staff Association, PDPs, and development plans.

• For Students: Personal tutors, student reps, wellbeing services, and a sense of inclusion from the outset.

Belonging is reinforced through communication, leadership visibility, and a commitment to inclusive growth.

7. Student Admissions

Admissions processes aim to be professional, unbiased, and ensure equitable treatment based on merit and potential.

8. Access and Participation

We strive to remove barriers to access in higher education through outreach, inclusive curricula, and support for mature students. All students should achieve their full potential and transition into successful careers.

9. Teaching, Learning and Assessment

Curricula and pedagogy reflect diversity and encourage inclusion. Learning strategies are equitable and responsive to student needs.

10. Harassment and Bullying

We enforce a zero-tolerance policy toward any conduct that creates a hostile, degrading, or offensive environment. All community members are responsible for maintaining a safe and inclusive space.

11. Complaints

Complaints are addressed through the appropriate grievance and student complaints policies. Protection is assured for those raising concerns in good faith.

12. Monitoring

We regularly analyse student and staff data to evaluate some equality outcomes. An annual report is reviewed by a senior management group to identify progress and challenges.

13. Recruitment and Employment

Recruitment practices aim to be transparent, skills-based and aligned with our EDI principles.

14. Implementation and Responsibilities

• All members of the College must familiarise themselves with this policy.

• Senior staff are accountable for driving inclusivity.

• Staff must: model inclusive behaviour, address misconduct, and foster an environment where everyone can thrive.

• All staff and students are responsible for challenging discrimination, and contributing to an inclusive culture.