Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Policy

1. Purpose

This Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Policy sets out the Festival’s commitment to providing a fair, respectful, and inclusive environment for everyone involved in its activities.

The Festival believes that creativity and cultural events are strongest when people feel safe, welcome, and treated with dignity. This policy exists to support that aim and to ensure compliance with UK equality legislation.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all individuals interacting with the Festival, including:

• Filmmakers and entrants
• Audience members and attendees
• Staff, volunteers, and contractors
• Judges, screeners, and advisors
• Partners, sponsors, and suppliers
• Press, media, and accredited guests

It applies to all Festival activities, whether in person, online, or through digital communication.

3. Legal Framework

This policy is informed by and aligned with the Equality Act 2010, which protects individuals from unlawful discrimination, harassment, and victimisation.

Protected characteristics under UK law include (but are not limited to):

• Age
• Disability
• Gender reassignment
• Marriage and civil partnership
• Pregnancy and maternity
• Race, nationality, or ethnicity
• Religion or belief
• Sex
• Sexual orientation

4. Equality Commitment

The Festival is committed to:

• Treating everyone fairly and with respect
• Making decisions based on merit, behaviour, and eligibility
• Not tolerating unlawful discrimination or harassment
• Providing equal access to opportunities wherever reasonably possible

All participants are expected to follow Festival policies and behave in a manner that supports these principles.

5. Diversity Statement

The Festival recognises and values diversity in:

• Backgrounds and life experiences
• Creative voices and perspectives
• Cultures, identities, and beliefs
• Skills, abilities, and professional journeys

The Festival welcomes participation from a broad and diverse range of individuals and organisations.

6. Inclusion & Accessibility

The Festival aims to foster an inclusive environment by:

• Using accessible venues where reasonably possible
• Communicating accessibility information clearly
• Making reasonable adjustments upon request
• Supporting inclusive participation within available resources

Accessibility considerations are also addressed in the Festival’s Accessibility Statement and Events & Venue Safety Policy.

7. Behaviour & Conduct

Inclusive behaviour is supported through:

• Clear standards set out in the Conduct, Behaviour & Safeguarding Policy
• Zero tolerance for harassment, bullying, or discrimination
• Clear reporting routes for concerns or complaints

Any behaviour that undermines equality, diversity, or inclusion may result in action under Festival policies.

8. Reporting Concerns

Anyone who experiences or witnesses behaviour that may breach this policy is encouraged to report it through the Festival’s complaints or reporting procedures.

Reports will be:

• Taken seriously
• Handled fairly and sensitively
• Treated confidentially where possible

Details of how to raise concerns are set out in the Complaints & Appeals Procedure Policy.

9. Responsibility

All participants share responsibility for supporting an inclusive Festival environment by:

• Treating others with respect
• Following Festival rules and guidance
• Challenging inappropriate behaviour where safe to do so
• Reporting concerns appropriately

Staff and volunteers may receive additional guidance relevant to their roles.

10. Continuous Improvement

The Festival recognises that equality and inclusion are ongoing commitments. We aim to:

• Review this policy periodically
• Learn from feedback and experience
• Improve practices where reasonably possible

11. Amendments

This policy may be updated at any time to reflect changes in law, guidance, or Festival operations.

12. Acceptance

Participation in Festival activities constitutes acceptance of this Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Policy.