Equal Opportunities Statement

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Solid Ground is committed to providing an inclusive, respectful and welcoming
environment for everyone who attends, volunteers with, or facilitates our peer-
support sessions. We value the diversity of lived experience within our
community and recognise that people face different barriers related to mental
health, trauma, disability, long-term health conditions, caring responsibilities,
substance use, economic disadvantage, and social isolation.
Although Solid Ground operates as an anonymous, adult-only peer-support
group, we are fully committed to ensuring that no individual is discriminated
against or excluded on the basis of:

 Age (18+)
 Disability or long-term health condition
 Sex or gender
 Race, ethnicity or cultural background
 Sexual orientation
 Gender identity or expression
 Religion or belief
 Pregnancy or maternity
 Marital or partnership status
 Socio-economic background
 Experience of trauma, addiction, or mental health challenges

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1. Our Commitments
 To provide a safe, calm, non-judgemental environment for all
participants.
 To treat all individuals with dignity, respect and fairness.
 To ensure sessions are accessible, trauma-aware and sensitive to
individual needs.
 To challenge discriminatory behaviour or language calmly and
appropriately.
 To ensure that no one is denied participation due to protected
characteristics or personal circumstances.
 To maintain clear boundaries that support emotional and physical safety.

2. Accessibility and Inclusion
We recognise that many adults who attend Solid Ground face barriers such as
trauma, anxiety, chronic illness, mobility issues or social isolation. We aim to:
 provide chairs, warm spaces and a calm environment
 allow individuals to step out or take breaks without judgement
 keep attendance anonymous to reduce anxiety
 adapt session content to meet the needs of the group
 offer gentle signposting when individuals express readiness for additional
support

3. Responsibilities of Facilitators and Volunteers
Facilitators and volunteers agree to:
 model inclusive, respectful behaviour
 support participants sensitively and without bias
 use trauma-aware practices
 uphold the group’s commitment to equality and fairness
 address concerns or incidents discreetly and appropriately

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4. Addressing Concerns
Any concerns relating to equality, discrimination or exclusion can be raised
confidentially with the facilitation team. While Solid Ground operates
anonymously, we will address concerns sensitively and take appropriate action
to ensure that everyone feels safe and included.
5. Review
This statement will be reviewed annually to ensure it continues to reflect our
values, responsibilities and best practice.
Last Updated: July 2025