Statement of Intent The RFU/RFUW has clearly stated the importance of affording equity, equal opportunity and fair treatment to all RFU/RFUW members. The Senior Section of Blandford Rugby Football Club (BRFC) in turn will follow and adhere to any Equity Policy issued by the RFU/RFUW. The Senior Section BRFC aims to ensure that all members of the section irrespective of their age, gender, ability, race, religion, ethnic origin, creed, colour, nationality, social status or sexual orientation have a genuine and equal opportunity to participate in rugby. This aim covers all players, coaches, administrative staff, match officials or spectators. It is the aim of the Senior Section BRFC not to disadvantage any individual by imposing any conditions or requirements which cannot be justified. Advice and training will be sought from the appropriate RFU departments for all members of the Senior Section BRFC. Direct Discrimination Direct discrimination is defined as treating a person less favourably than others are or would be treated in the same or similar circumstances. Indirect Discrimination Indirect Discrimination occurs when a requirement or condition is applied which whether intentional or not, adversely affects a considerably larger proportion of people of one race, sex or marital status than another and cannot be justified on grounds other than race, sex or marital status. Objectives The objectives of the Senior Section BRFC Equity Policy are: To adopt a planned approach to eliminating perceived barriers which discriminate against particular groups. This will include widening the traditional approach to include communities who are experiencing disadvantage, poverty or health inequalities. To ensure that no coach or member of the Senior Section BRFC receives less favourable treatment on the grounds outlined in this policy statement. To obtain from the RFU clear guidance for any member of the Senior Section BRFC on any Equity matters. To ensure that all members of the Senior Section BRFC at all levels and roles receive fair and equitable treatment. To ensure that the format of any competitions or assessments organised by the Senior Section BRFC provide equity for all, except where specific situations and conditions properly or reasonably prevent this. To ensure that all advertising of the Senior Section BRFC documentation which is distributed promote a clear image of the profile of those who are part of the Senior Section BRFC. Implementation The Senior Section BRFC will seek to promote equity and equality through: Monitor all practices, procedures and data relating to the operation of the Senior Section BRFC. This will also include any recruitment drives. Conduct regular reviews of all existing rules and regulations to ensure that it does not prohibit people from groups who may suffer discrimination from joining the Senior Section BRFC. Develop collaboration with other external organisations to ensure equity, fair and consistent treatment of all Senior Section members. Identify and provide appropriate training for all to raise the awareness of both collective and individual responsibilities. The Senior Section BRFC will in pursuance of this policy will adopt any special measures or positive actions implemented by the RFU/RFUW in favour of any group who is under represented within its membership. The Senior Section BRFC will recognise the legal obligations which are set out in the RFU/RFU Equity Policy. These legal obligations are based on the following acts of Parliament: Race Relations Act 1976 (amendment 2000) Equal Pay Act 1970 Sex Discrimination Acts 1975, 1986 and 1999 Disability Discrimination Act 1975 Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 Human Rights Act 1998 Monitoring The Equity and Ethics Manager of the RFU is responsible for providing the RFU with data for monitoring the effectiveness of the RFU Equity Policy. The Equity and Ethics Manager is also tasked with providing clubs with appropriate information concerning the RFU Equity Policy. The RFU/RFUW will work with key equity partners and accountable officers within these organisations to ensure that all programmes and initiatives are inclusive. The Senior Section BRFC will when requested provide the Equity and Ethics Manager any information to assist the appointee in fulfilling this objective. Exemptions The Senior Section BRFC will seek advice from the RFU Equity and Ethics Manager where appropriate to ensure that the correct procedures are implanted when it is necessary to limit competitions organised by the Senior Section to persons of a specific age, gender or disability group to ensure equitable, safe and equal competition. Responsibility BRFC expects members of the Senior Section BRFC to adhere to this policy. In pursuance of this policy and compliance with RFU guidelines the Senior Section BRFC reserves the right to instigate disciplinary action to any member who practices any form of discrimination on the grounds of a persons age, gender, ability, race, religion, ethnic origin, creed, colour, nationality, social status or sexual orientation.

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