Child Bereavement UK is inclusive of and respectful to all our stakeholders, including colleagues, volunteers, supporters and beneficiaries, in our attitudes, behaviours and activities. We aim to use accessible language to be open and unbiased. We welcome and respect everyone and advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion across all areas of our work.

We are committed to creating a safe and welcoming atmosphere for everyone, and one that challenges all forms of oppression or discrimination including those based on age, gender or gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity leave, disability, race (which includes nationality, citizenship, ethnic or national origins), religion/faith or belief, sexual orientation (collectively known in law as the ‘protected characteristics’), as well as any oppression or discrimination based on other physical characteristics or impairments, occupation, income, wealth, or unrelated criminal convictions.

Our language

At Child Bereavement UK we consider at all times the impact the language we use may have on others and we try to use language that is both accessible and inclusive. We are respectful of an individual’s preferred pronouns and will use these when referring to them in writing.

Please see our glossary for examples of terminology we use on our website and why. Please note it is not intended to be an exhaustive list and our usage may change in response to new advice on writing for clarity and inclusivity.

Our group on equity, diversity and inclusion

The charity’s group on equity, diversity and inclusion is made up of staff and volunteers and includes senior management team and trustee representatives. The group is tasked with being a conduit for different perspectives and ideas and representing diverse voices to ensure that we are continually learning and improving in our ambition to be a truly inclusive workforce. This enables us not only to support each other in our workplace but also to better represent the individuals, families, and organisations we work with and support.

Let's Talk About...

The group has organised a range of interactive presentations and information sessions for all staff  in response to staff suggestions. Topics to date have included unconscious bias, cultural sensitivity, ageism, and racial equality, all under the banner Let’s Talk About.

The group recently organised a presentation on Stephen Lawrence Day, which was delivered by the charity’s Trustee Lorna Ireland. Stephen’s murder in 1993 and the subsequent case and campaigning by his family and friends led to profound cultural changes in attitudes to racism, to the law, and to police practice.

Staff learned how Stephen’s legacy is recognised nationally on 22 April each year, a day which also raises awareness of the foundation set up in Stephen's name. The Stephen Lawrence Day Foundation was established amid unprecedented growing global awareness of racial inequality and exists to inspire a more equitable, inclusive society, and to foster opportunities for marginalised young people in the UK.

As a result of the session, staff committed to being more aware and confident in calling out racist behaviour if, when and where they encounter it.