Cultural Diversity Policy

Cultural diversity ensures that the differences of all are appreciated. Awareness of culture and encouraging the cultural diversity of all individuals is a key component of the activity planning and service delivery of Inspire Ability.

The purpose of the Cultural Diversity Policy is to ensure awareness and understanding of the cultural differences of clients, carers, families, employees and associates of Inspire Ability.

Inspire Ability Cultural Diversity Policy

1. Introduction/Overview

Cultural diversity ensures that the differences of all are appreciated. Awareness of culture and encouraging the cultural diversity of all individuals is a key component of the activity planning and service delivery of Inspire Ability.

2. Purpose

The purpose of the Cultural Diversity Policy is to ensure awareness and understanding of the cultural differences of clients, carers, families, employees and associates of Inspire Ability.

3. Scope

The Inspire Ability Cultural Diversity Policy applies to all services and activities provided by the organisation, it’s employees and associates. The policy encompasses the planning of activities and the way that services are provided to all clients.

4. Definitions
   • Human Rights – a right which is believed to belong to every person regardless of race, sex, nationality, ethnicity, language, religion or any other status.
   • Cultural diversity – the existence of a variety of cultural or ethnic groups
   • Cultural awareness – the ability to understand the differences between themselves from others with a different ethnicity, background, language or belief.
   • Diversity – a range of differences
   • Employees – those employed by the organisation to carry out tasks and provide services. May be contractors, paid or unpaid.
   • Clients – those who partake of the services provided by the organisation.
   • Carers – those who provide care services to the clients in respect to their wellbeing and ability to take part in activities. Carers may be family members, care service providers (paid or unpaid) who are able to assist the client and in some cases be involved in the decisions made for and with the client.
   • Families – members of the client’s family who care for and assist the client.
5. Policy Content

Inspire Ability appreciates and respects the differences in all individuals. It is the policy of Inspire Ability to promote cultural awareness, diversity and inclusivity at all times.

Awareness of culture is promoted through the incorporation of cultural activities into the provision of service. This may be through music, arts and crafts and other activities that the client may chose to include in their service.

Inclusion of all cultures is an important aspect of all activities planned at Inspire Ability. At times, Inspire Ability will include activities provided by external service providers specialising in a particular cultural activity to engage clients in awareness and inclusion of cultures different to their own. These

activities may be identified due to a particular request or the awareness of a cultural learning opportunity.

Planning – Inspire Ability employees are encouraged to plan activities based on cultural awareness and differences to promote acceptance of cultural diversities. Team planning sessions may be a part of staff meetings or planning specific meetings.

Regular training around cultural diversity will take place through information sharing and staff meetings where discussions around cultural events, activities and plans can be had.

6. Policy Review Statement

This policy will be reviewed annually as a part of the ongoing review and continuous improvement of all of the organisations policies and procedures. In the case where changes to legislation and regulations that may impact this policy, a review will be carried out within 30 days of the change to legislation, regulation or other legislative requirements.