Equity, equality, diversity and inclusion

We believe that emotional distress and psychological ill-health are found in all sections of society, and can be exacerbated by actual or perceived experiences of discrimination.

We exist to promote emotional wellbeing across society through the provision of inclusive and accessible counselling, therapy and training services to Leeds, Calderdale and surrounding areas. We are also committed to helping therapists, counsellors and practitioners at all levels to develop their professional skills.

We operate in accordance with the BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions.

With regard to the ethics of equality, diversity and inclusion:

• We appreciate the variety of human experience and culture
• We strive for the fair and adequate provision of services,
• We act in line with the principle of justice - fair and impartial treatment of all clients and the provision of adequate services.

We believe that we have a personal and organisational responsibility for ensuring that our clinical and training services are appropriately accessible to all those who can benefit from them. It is our policy not to discriminate against anyone, whether staff member, trainee, client or potential service user of Northpoint, or anyone else connected with the organisation, on the basis of gender, race, colour, nationality, religion, disability, sexual orientation, age, health, financial status, offending history, mental health history, or for any other reason which cannot be justified for the continued safe and effective delivery of our services.

Recognising that counselling theory is derived from certain normative modes of thought, we are alert to difference and diversity within our clients and are committed to working with it, and to continued training and reflection to enhance our ability to do so.

We are responsible for ensuring that our workplace is not discriminatory and for promoting diversity within it. We believe that people from different backgrounds can contribute different skills, abilities and perspectives which can enhance Northpoint’s services and workplace. Differences in personal backgrounds and characteristics do not inform decisions about the suitability of individuals for employment, engagement, learning and development opportunities, or promotion. All decisions in these areas are objective, based on merit, and support the development of individuals within the organisational context.