SAC Learning

• A major part of taking forward the equality and diversity agenda is involving people who are affected by the way we work; the services we provide; and our role as an HEI. 
• SAC has established Equality and Diversity Forums made up of representatives from across SAC to consider activities to promote diversity and support practices which ensure equal opportunities for all staff, students and visitors.
• This includes not only working to adhere to anti-discriminatory legislation, but constantly striving to meet everybody’s needs through research and consultation, whilst actively promoting good relations between different groups.
• The forums widely acknowledges the negative impact of discrimination and is committed to achieving equality of opportunity and promoting diversity in the interests of the individual and the organisation as a whole.

If you would like to get involved, if you have any suggestions or if you would like some more information contact one of the Senior Tutors.

Purpose:

• To set the strategic framework for equality of opportunity in service provision and in employment.

Functions:

• To advise the Chief Executive/Principal and Governing Body on the implementation of all aspects of SAC's equal opportunities policy and to monitor progress of that policy;
• To consider and report on all matters relating to the formulation, implementation, evaluation and review of equal opportunities policies across the institution and on the fulfilment of SAC's statutory obligations.

Terms of Reference:

• To consider the implications of changes in legislation for the implementation of equal opportunities in the organisation; and generally to advise on any related issues, alerting the EMTand other committees of the implications of current practices for equal opportunities;
• To prepare or instigate appropriate policies, advice and guidance in relation to equal opportunities;
• To monitor implementation of equal opportunities policies in the organisation and to receive reports as requested from relevant areas within SAC;
• To instigate as appropriate independent audit of the implementation of the organisation's equal opportunities policy;
• To establish working groups to investigate and report on the equal opportunities dimension of any aspect of SAC's policies and procedures and to receive feedback from staff and students on relevant issues;
• To prepare and maintain an organisational action plan, including performance targets, to ensure that the equal opportunities policies are translated into programmes of action;
• To define and request resources required to deliver this implementation plan;
• To assist academic and support areas in the implementation of equal opportunities policies;
• To maintain sector links with professional bodies e.g. Equality Challenge Unit.

N.B. equal opportunities relates to gender, race, ethnic origin, disability, religion, age, sexual orientation, harassment & bullying.