The aim of this policy is to ensure that everyone is treated fairly, and with respect, and that AFC Wimbledon is equally accessible to all.
AFC Wimbledon is responsible for setting standards and values that apply throughout the club at every level. Football belongs to, and should be enjoyed by, anyone who wants to participate in it.
Our commitment is to confront and eliminate discrimination whether it by reason of age, race, disability, gender reassignment, pregnancy & maternity, sexual orientation, marriage & civil partnership, sex (gender) and religion & belief.
The policy is fully supported by the club officers who are responsible for the implementation of the policy.
AFC Wimbledon, in all its activities will ensure it treats people fairly and with respect and it will provide access and opportunities for all members of the community to take part in and enjoy its activities.
AFC Wimbledon will not tolerate harassment, bullying, abuse or victimisation of an individual, which for the purposes of this policy and the actions and sanction applicable is regarded as discrimination. This includes sexual or racially based harassment or other discriminatory behaviour, whether physical or verbal. AFC Wimbledon will work to ensure that such behaviour is met with appropriate action in whatever context it occurs.
AFC Wimbledon is committed to take positive action where inequalities exist, and to the development of a programme of on-going training and awareness – raising events and activities in order to promote the eradication of discrimination and promote equality in football.
AFC Wimbledon is committed to a policy of equal treatment of all members and requires all members to abide and adhere to the policies and requirements of the Equality Act 2010 and the Protected Characteristics as well as any new amendments to the acts and any new legislation.
AFC Wimbledon commits itself to the immediate investigation of any claims, when it is brought to its attention, of discrimination on the above grounds and where such is found to be the case, a requirement that the practice stop and sanction imposed as appropriate.
Equality Policy Complaints Procedure
In the event that anyone feels that they have suffered discrimination in any way, or that the club Policies, Rules or Code of conduct have not been followed, they should report the matter to the Club Secretary or another member of the Football Club Board. The report should include:
- details of the incident, including when and where it took place
- any witness statement and names of other people involved
- names of any others who have been treated in a similar way
- details of any former complaints made about the incident, and when and to whom they were made
- a preference for a solution to the incident
- any request for a hearing
The club’s Board will sit for any hearings that are requested and amongst other sanctions will have the power to:
- warn a transgressor as to their future conduct
- suspend a transgressor from the club
- issue a club ban. If the complaint is with regard to a member of the Football Club Board, the complainant has the right to report the matter direct to the Dons Trust Board after giving notice of their intention to do so.
This Policy has been approved and authorised by the AFC Wimbledon Board of Directors.