Overview
Harleston Players put diversity and inclusion at the heart of what we do. Our aim is to create an inclusive environment for our participants, and to increasing our engagement with groups who are traditionally under-represented in the performing arts. This policy sets out how we will work to support the principles of the Equality Act 2010, our expectations of participants in supporting these, and how we will respond to reports of misconduct.
This policy should be read alongside our Safeguarding Policy and Health and Safety Policy.
Key principles
Harleston Players will build on our status and reputation as an accessible, inclusive and diverse amateur dramatics group, and encourage audiences from all backgrounds to enjoy a quality theatrical experience at an affordable price.
We are committed to treating people with dignity and respect and valuing diversity. Our strength is in drawing from the varied experiences of our members and in providing opportunities for all to tell their stories, bringing people from different backgrounds together and producing productions that reflect the rich tapestry of our local community.
Harleston Players will operate in accordance with the principles set out under the Equality Act 2010, As such, we do not discriminate against anyone based on their age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation.
Our objectives
We will celebrate diversity by showcasing new talent through original writing, directing and performances, by:
- holding workshops and advertise auditions to help attract new members from across the local area,
- provide a safe, inclusive and accessible environment for new and existing participants, by responding to complaints and misconduct promptly
- appointing a Safeguarding Officer to support the safety of our participants, in accordance with our Health and Safety Policy.
- using venues and rehearsal spaces that are accessible for audience and participants.
- promoting a supportive and nurturing environment for all our participants.
- work with the local community to create effective partnerships and attract new participants using a range of avenues and platforms to promote our work.
- monitoring audience and members feedback and participation levels through regular surveys to ensure we constantly improve our work with the local community.
- Providing audio description at some performances of each play, enabling visually impaired audience members to access and enjoy the performance
Code of conduct
The safety and wellbeing of our members is our core priority, and everyone’s responsibility.
Anyone working with Harleston Players must behave in accordance with the following principles:
- All participants will be treated with respect, courtesy and dignity.
- Any form of discrimination, abrasive behaviour, bullying or harassment will not be tolerated, including language and humour that others find offensive and/or derogatory.
- We will support people who feel they have been harassed, bullied or discriminated against. Those who come forward with any complaints will not be victimised because they have raised a concern.
Reporting misconduct
We encourage our members to report any behaviour which is in breach of any of the above principles to our designated Safeguarding Officer as soon as possible.
Reports will be taken very seriously and thoroughly investigated. We will listen to all members involved, and all individuals will have an opportunity to express their point of view in a safe space.
A meeting will follow with the directors and Safeguarding Officer to discuss how the incident unfolded. We will keep a secure written record of any misconduct or complaints raised and each will be dealt with thoroughly on a case-by-case basis.
If necessary, members will be suspended or permanently removed from all Harleston Players activities.
Policy review
This policy is a working document which will be reviewed and updated regularly to make sure that our diversity objectives are achieved and maintained.
Date of last review: December 2025
Contact us
If you have a question or wish to raise a concern about behaviour or misconduct, please contact us via our web-site: www.harlestonplayers.co.uk
Designated Safeguarding Officer: Janine Lascelles