Equality, Inclusion and Service Delivery Statement

At A Way Out are committed to creating safe, compassionate and inclusive services for everyone we support.

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Our charitable purpose is to support people experiencing disadvantage, exploitation, abuse, trauma, inequality and exclusion. While many of our services have been developed in response to the experiences of women and girls, we also work with boys, young men and families where this aligns with our charitable objectives and the needs of our communities.

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We recognise that people experience oppression, discrimination and inequality in different ways. Experiences are often shaped by factors such as sex, gender identity, race, disability, age, sexuality, faith, socio-economic circumstances, caring responsibilities and other life experiences. We understand that these identities and experiences often intersect, creating additional barriers to safety, wellbeing and opportunity.

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We are proud to affirm that trans people, including trans women, trans men, non-binary and gender-diverse people, are valued members of our communities and deserve to be treated with dignity, respect and compassion. We recognise that many trans and gender-diverse people experience discrimination, harassment, violence, poor mental health outcomes and social exclusion, and we are committed to ensuring that our services remain welcoming and respectful.

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We are committed to complying with the Equality Act 2010 and all relevant legal and regulatory requirements. We recognise and respect all protected characteristics and are committed to making lawful, proportionate and evidence-based decisions that promote safety, dignity, wellbeing and access to support for those who need it.

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As a trauma-informed organisation, we believe that people should be treated with compassion, offered choice wherever possible, and supported in ways that recognise the impact of adversity, abuse and discrimination. We seek to understand what has happened to people rather than make assumptions about who they are.

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We also recognise that there may be times when different needs, rights or experiences require careful consideration. In these situations, our responsibility is to make balanced, lawful and proportionate decisions that are guided by:

• The purpose and objectives of the service being delivered;

• The safety, dignity, privacy and wellbeing of all those involved;

• Individual needs and circumstances;

• Safeguarding responsibilities;

• Equality and human rights considerations;

• Relevant legislation, guidance and professional standards.

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For this reason, decisions relating to participation in services, activities or spaces may sometimes be made on a case-by-case basis. These decisions will be informed by individual assessments, risk management processes, professional judgement and consultation where appropriate. Our aim is always to support people in ways that are safe, fair, respectful and consistent with our values.

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Where an individual's needs cannot be fully met within a particular service, we will work collaboratively to identify alternative or additional support, including specialist services where appropriate.

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We are committed to:

• Treating all people with dignity, compassion and respect;

• Creating environments that promote safety, privacy and wellbeing;

• Challenging discrimination, prejudice and hate in all forms;

• Listening to the voices and experiences of those we support;

• Providing ongoing training, learning and reflection for staff, volunteers and trustees;

• Ensuring that our policies and practices remain informed by evidence, lived experience and emerging guidance;

• Making decisions that reflect both our legal responsibilities and our organisational values of Love, Hope and Freedom.

We understand that people may hold different views on matters relating to sex, gender and identity. We believe that respectful dialogue, curiosity and kindness are essential. We will continue to foster an organisational culture where differing perspectives can be discussed constructively, while maintaining our commitment to the safety and dignity of everyone who engages with our services.

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This statement will remain under regular review as legislation, case law and regulatory guidance continue to develop.

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Love. Hope. Freedom. For everyone.