Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

At Age UK Devon, we believe that everyone deserves to feel valued, respected and included, whatever their age, background or circumstances.

Our mission is to support people over 50 across Devon to live well, stay independent and feel connected. To do this meaningfully, we must recognise and celebrate the diversity of the people and communities we serve.

Our commitment

We are committed to creating a culture where:

Everyone feels welcome and safe accessing our services

Individual differences are recognised, respected and celebrated

Barriers to support are identified and reduced

Voices that are often unheard are actively listened to

We understand that later life can bring unique challenges and that these challenges can be greater for people who may already face inequality or exclusion.

Supporting every individual

The people we support are not one group - they are individuals with different life experiences, identities and needs.

This includes (but is not limited to):

People from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds

LGBTQ+ communities

People living with disabilities or long-term health conditions

Carers

People experiencing social isolation

People facing financial hardship or digital exclusion

We are committed to ensuring our services, whether at home, in the community or through information and advice, are accessible, inclusive and responsive to these differences.

How we put this into action

‘Equality, Diversity and Inclusion’ is not just a statement, it’s something we actively work on every day. We do this by:

Designing services that are flexible and person-centred

Offering a wide range of community activities, varied so that people can take part regardless of age, physical ability, confidence or income

Taking support out into the community: we offer a variety of ways to get in touch, and with the help of our trained volunteers we aim to reach as many older people as possible

Listening to feedback from the people who use our services

Training and supporting our staff and volunteers

Working in partnership with local organisations and communities

Challenging discrimination and promoting fairness

A place where everyone belongs

Whether you are accessing our services, volunteering, working with us or supporting our work, we want you to feel that you belong.

We are always learning and improving, and we know there is more to do. By continuing to listen, reflect and take action, we aim to build a more inclusive Devon - where older people feel seen, heard and supported to live the life they choose.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further with us please contact us