Purpose
This policy sets out Kirkstall Art Trail’s commitment and priorities for action on equality, diversity and inclusion.
Kirkstall Art Trail is an Unincorporated Association managed by a small committee of volunteers. This policy applies to all volunteers, committee members, artists, and participants who take part in or engage with our activities.
Our Commitment
Kirkstall Art Trail is committed to:
- Putting equality and diversity at the centre of the work we do.
- Treating all people with dignity and respect.
- Understanding, valuing, and celebrating diversity and intersectionality.
- Enabling fair and full participation in our activities.
- Promoting equality of opportunity and diversity.
- Being transparent and honest in all that we do.
- Not unlawfully discriminating on the basis of any of the protected characteristics defined 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
- Listening to complaints about conduct, taking them seriously, and responding fairly and promptly.
- Not disqualifying any applicant because they are unable to complete an application form or respond to emails unassisted.
For this policy to be effective, everyone involved with Kirkstall Art Trail must be committed to and involved in its delivery. Our goal is to work towards a community free from discrimination, harassment and prejudice.
Aims
There are many different types of underrepresentation within the arts. Where it is possible, removing barriers to participation is important to us – though we acknowledge that this can be a challenge.
Creating an Inclusive Environment
Our aim is to create an environment free of bullying, harassment, victimisation and unlawful discrimination, promoting dignity and respect for all, where individual differences and the contributions of all volunteers, artists, and participants are recognised and valued.
Recruiting Artists Without Prejudice
Our aim is to recruit artists without prejudice. We know we could do more to market the trail to reach a more diverse and inclusive community, and we are always looking for ways to improve. If an artist is unable to complete an online application form, they can request help or an alternative method of application.
Diverse Committee Representation
Our committee has diverse representation, including across a wide range of ages, from all genders, with disabilities, and from different sexualities. We aim to recruit members with other characteristics not yet represented on the committee.
Accessible Venues
We recognise that not all our venues will be fully accessible, and that we are not always able to make every accommodation we would like to. We will always aim to include a range of venues to suit different needs where possible, and will make accessibility information clearly available in advance so that visitors can make informed choices about where they attend.
Clear and Accessible Communications
Our aim is to make our communications clear and easy to understand. The Kirkstall Art Trail website has been designed with accessibility in mind. We can accommodate different communication needs and formats on request.
How to Raise a Concern or Complaint
We welcome feedback and take all concerns seriously. If you have a complaint or concern about conduct, equality, or accessibility, please contact us by email at: info@kirkstallarttrail.co.uk, using the subject line: “Equality, Diversity and Inclusion – Concern/Complaint”.
We will acknowledge your contact promptly and aim to respond fairly and constructively. The committee is responsible for handling all complaints and will do so with sensitivity and discretion.
Monitoring and Reviewing
The committee is responsible for monitoring our commitments and aims on an ongoing basis. This policy is reviewed annually at a full committee meeting, or earlier if required by a significant change in circumstances or legislation.
Monitoring may include reviewing the diversity of artist applications and committee membership, and reflecting on whether our communications are as clear and accessible as they can be.
Review
The policy was last reviewed on 25 June 2026