Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Policy

Introduction
The British Society of Prosthodontics (BSSPD) is committed to actively encouraging equality and diversity among our membership, and to eliminating unfair and unlawful discrimination.

The BSSPD aims to be truly representative of all sections of society and our membership, for everyone to feel respected and be able to give their best.

The BSSPD does not tolerate any form of intimidation, humiliation, harassment, bullying or abuse and is fully committed to meeting its legal obligations under The Equality Act 2010.

Scope
This policy applies to all staff employed by BSSPD, members of Council, invited guest speakers, volunteers and contractors. The policy will be applicable to members, sponsors and visitors to the BSSPD.

Policy principles
This policy seeks to ensure the following:

• All professionals and the public are always treated fairly and respectfully in their dealings with BSSPD.
• All those involved with BSSPD have equity of opportunity to contribute and achieve their potential.
• Everyone involved with BSSPD is free from discrimination, harassment and bullying, or any other form of behaviours that are contrary to our aims of fairness and inclusivity.
• BSSPD fulfils the requirements of the Equality Act 2010 and avoids and opposes unlawful discrimination related to protected characteristics (see appendix 1)

Our Commitments

• Embrace diversity within society, by ensuring a visible commitment to equality throughout the society’s channels for recruitment (workforce, council members)
• Create a positive open, learning culture across BSSPD which develops understanding and supports people to embrace diversity and inclusion
• Create an environment free of bullying, harassment, victimisation, and unlawful discrimination whilst promoting dignity and respect for all, and where individual differences and the contributions of all staff are recognised and valued.
• Endeavour to make sure conferences, organisational and member events have diverse representation in their presenters/speakers
• To promote diversity in communication in all aspects of BSSPD business, specifically using inclusive images and language in communications
• Actively commit to addressing racism and discrimination by having a zero-tolerance policy
• To eliminate prejudice and discrimination in all BSSPD business by having a zerotolerance policy

Non-compliance
Any member, sponsor, or visitor to BSSPD is expected to comply with this policy. Should anyone believe the policy has been breached they can raise their concerns to the BSSPD society administrator, so that the matter can be investigated by council. Any breach may result in membership being revoked, or services terminated.

Monitoring
This policy will be reviewed every three years and/or at the times of any changes in legislation.

Appendix 1 – Protected characteristics as set out in the Equality Act 2010:
• age
• disability
• gender reassignment
• marriage and civil partnership
• pregnancy and maternity
• race (including colour, nationality, and ethnic or national origin)
• religion or belief
• sex
• sexual orientation

Version 1.0
Date: February 2023
Authors: BSSPD Council
Review: February 2026